Macao officials echoed Fok's sentiments. Alexis Tam Chon-weng, secretary for social affairs and culture in the Macao Special Administrative Region, said: "We're very proud to see the achievements of our country over the past 70 years.

"So I always tell my colleagues and our young athletes that we're very lucky to witness the fast development of our country.

"With the support of the General Administration of Sport of China, athletes from Macao can level up their strength at major events such as the National Games and National Youth Games."

Plenty of technological treats were on display at the exhibition, including equipment that analyzes users' fitness data and interactive screens that show how to exercise more scientifically.

"The interaction zone gives people a better sports experience," said exhibition guide Wang Yilin.

"Injury is always a possibility if you lack scientific knowledge about sports. One of our main purposes is to teach people better ways of playing sports.

"The achievements of legendary Olympic medalists can seem a long way from everyday life, but the exhibition connects with everyone through its wide range of exhibits - from the sportswear to the pistol sight used by China's first Olympic gold medalist, Xu Haifeng."

The exhibition's educational value has been a big draw for families.

"I came to feel the great atmosphere of the Youth Games and especially the exhibition," said Taiyuan native Wang Yuepeng, who took his ninth-grade daughter along.

"After seeing the exhibition, I'm impressed by all of our country's achievements over the years. It's the first time for me to see real Olympic medals and torches. I never would have thought the exhibition could bring all the these great exhibits here.

"I took my daughter here to feel the passion and to teach her about patriotism. Also, as a Shanxi native, it makes me very proud that our province is hosting such a massive event as the Youth Games."

Contact the writer at shifutian@chinadaily.com.cn