The rugby event for the 2nd National Youth Games kicked off in Shanxi Provincial Football Training Base in Yangqu county, in Shanxi province, on July 8.

The event which lasts until July 17 has attracted 706 athletes in 51 teams from 16 provinces and municipalities across China, including six teams from Shanxi. 

A total of 115 matches divided into sports school groups and club groups are ongoing in the 10-day event, with teams competing for seven gold medals.

Players tough it out in a rugby match in Shanxi Provincial Football Training Base in Yangqu county, in Shanxi province, on July 8. [Photo/people.com.cn]

Possession of the ball is fought for in a scrum during a rugby match on July 8. [Photo/people.com.cn]