China enjoys a well-deserved reputation for inventiveness. Paper, the compass, gunpowder and the mechanical clock are but a few of the innumerable Chinese inventions which have shaped the world we now take for granted. Don't look now, but it seems to be happening again. In China's central Shaanxi Province, a first-of-its-kind farmers table tennis league is attracting serious attention. Yesterday, the Qishan County Farmers Table Tennis Association enjoyed its ribbon-cutting ceremony, to much fanfare. Operating unofficially since May, the league already boasts a membership base of over 1,100. The groundbreaking organization owes its existence to Chen Changlin, a 61-year-old farmer who has played recreationally for four decades. "Table tennis is my life-long hobby, and I am determined to promote the sport to farmers after the founding of the association," says Chen. As if promoting a fun and healthy activity among his fellow farmers weren't enough of a reward for his efforts, Chen has also enjoyed the opportunity to rub elbows with table tennis royalty. Chinese Table Tennis Association (CTTA) vice president Lei Jun took time out of his busy schedule to attend yesterday's ceremony. "Participating in physical exercise activities is one of the new styles in China rural areas, and the establishment of the association steps on a new horizon of the development of table tennis in China's countryside," said Lei, eyeing a new pipeline of talent for the national team. In fact, one former national team member was even on hand as well. Qi Baoxiang, 1981 World Champion in the women's team event, played Chen in a series of exhibition matches, which she won handily. "What he impressed me the most is his perseverance," marveled the 60-year-old Qi. "He has lots of farming work to do each day but never gives up practicing table tennis." Even in a land renowned for innovation, Chen Changlin has raised the bar with the Qishan County Farmers Table Tennis Association. Given its auspicious debut, a bumper crop of agrarian athletic associations is sure to follow.

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