The event's 29-year legacy is a testament to resilience. Decades ago, Yutian, choked by sandstorms, had unfavorable weather conditions for sports. After decades of efforts, a 3,046-kilometer tree wall has shielded the region since last year, cutting annual sandstorms by more than 50 days.

The local women's Maire ball team has benefited from the improving environment. Once isolated in the desert's heart, they now train on proper courts after a 2019 relocation. "Now we have roads, neighbors and jerseys," says the team.