Did you know this building once accommodated young foreign men? Today, we stand before the \u4f53\u80b2\u529e\u516c\u697c in Shanghai. It is a place with a rich history, deeply entwined with sports. This magnificent building has become a cradle of world champions.
Originally, this building was constructed for the Foreign Young Men’s Christian Association. Leading men in Shanghai conceived the idea in 1920. The YMCA itself has roots stretching back to 1844. Englishman George Williams founded this international organization. A Chinese YMCA emerged in Shanghai by 1900.
In 1928, the Foreign YMCA building opened its doors. It stood opposite the Shanghai Race Course, now People’s Square. George Fitch, the Foreign YMCA general secretary, envisioned it as a home for men away from home. Young men from various Western nations could meet here. They could mingle in wholesome fellowship. Attractive surroundings offered comfortable living. The cost was within reach of all.
Generous contributions from New York and Shanghai made the vision a reality. American architect Elliott Hazzard designed the fire-proof building. Hazzard headed an influential architectural office. He also designed the Wing On Tower, Shanghai Power Company and the China United Assurance Building. Before the Park Hotel’s erection, the Foreign YMCA building dominated the skyline.
Local media described the 10-floor Foreign YMCA Building as a wonder. It was as modern as science and money could make it. The building showcased Italian Renaissance style. The lower story featured rusticated walls. Brown, buff and cream bricks created a diaper pattern. Piers between windows rose to red-tile caps. The China Press noted the charming effect.
A reporter highlighted the triple entrance on Bubbling Well Road. Three tall, deeply recessed windows stood above. Slender columns separated these windows. Ellen Johnston Laing noted the drape pattern. It was similar to that of the Palazzo Ducale di Venezia.
The interior matched the exterior’s appeal and functionality. Both the Chinese and Foreign YMCA focused on young people. They conducted sports activities and informative lectures. The building featured centrally heated rooms with light and air. A gymnasium and a swimming pool were highlights. A running track and bowling alley added to the amenities. Filtered water was available in all rooms. Cooling coils provided refreshment during summer.
During World War II, the Japanese army occupied the building. In 1950, the Shanghai government took it over. Mayor Chen Yi assigned it to the Shanghai Sports Bureau. In 1957, they opened the Shanghai Sports Club here. This club organized sports classes. It trained future athletes from local children. Many Chinese stars started here. Swimmer Yang Wenyi and go player Chang Hao were among them.
Much of the original exterior and interior remains today. The diaper patterns on the facade still exist. The triple entrance and beautiful arches are preserved. The dark-wood library evokes the past. Even the swimming pool retains its warm water and delicate old mosaics.
The Shanghai Sports Bureau has continuously used the building since 1950. Ventilation was so good that air conditioners were unnecessary. The sound of wind blowing doors was constant.
Today, part of the second floor is open to the public. It serves as an exhibition room for the Shanghai Sports Museum. The history of the Olympic Games and Chinese participation is showcased. Olympic gold medals and pictures of Chinese champions glisten.
Colonel G. R. Rice spoke at the opening ceremony. He noted the building’s purpose. It would minister to the threefold needs of Shanghai’s young men. Spirit, soul and body would find nourishment here. The building would emphasize the brotherhood of man.
Now known as the Shanghai Sports Building, this place continues to inspire. The \u4f53\u80b2\u529e\u516c\u697c remains a testament to Shanghai’s sporting heritage. It blends history, culture and athletic ambition seamlessly.