On December 14, 2024, the Canadian Community Table Tennis Association (CCTTA) hosted its grand 2024 Christmas Gala Dinner in Toronto. Sponsored by Sinocan Supply Inc. and Yanghe Distillery, this prestigious event brought together political dignitaries, business leaders, educators, and sports icons to celebrate a year of remarkable achievements in the world of table tennis and foster deeper cultural exchange between Canada and China.
During the evening, Deven Chen, Toronto Sales Representative for Sinocan Supply Inc., representing Yanghe Distillery, delivered a keynote speech. Chen introduced the guests to the rich legacy of Yanghe as a symbol of Chinese culture and elaborated on its meticulous craftsmanship, which combines traditional brewing methods with modern innovation.
Deven Chen, Toronto Sales Representative for Sinocan Supply Inc., representing Yanghe Distillery, delivered a keynote speech
Highlighting the brand’s mission to bridge cultures through baijiu, Chen expressed gratitude to the CCTTA for promoting Sino-Canadian cultural exchanges and emphasized a vision of continued collaboration to share Chinese culture with Canadian consumers.
In attendance was Mary Ng, Canada’s Minister of International Trade, who graced the event as a special guest. Minister Ng praised the influence of Chinese culture and table tennis in Canada, lauding Yanghe’s exceptional flavor profile characterized by its smooth and lingering sweetness. She also commended its status as an exemplar of Chinese baijiu craftsmanship.
Deven Chen of Sinocan Supply Inc. introduced Yanghe Baijiu to Minister Mary Ng, offering her a firsthand tasting experience that left a lasting impression.
Key speakers of the evening included Harvey Fung, President of the Canadian Community Table Tennis Association, and Stanley Hu, CCTTA Chair, who reflected on the association’s achievements over the past year and shared ambitious goals for the future. Adding to the evening’s significance were prominent guests such as Roy Lynn, Chair of York Region District School Board, and a Nigerian table tennis national team player, both of whom underscored the global and educational importance of the sport. The vibrant interactions among attendees contributed to the festive atmosphere, further strengthening the ties between the two cultures.
President Harvey Fung, Canadian Community Table Tennis Association
President Stanley Hu, Canadian Community Table Tennis Association
Nigerian National Table Tennis Team Player (leftmost)
Roy Lynn, Chair of the York Region District School Board (rightmost)
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the much-anticipated Yanghe Lucky Draw, hosted by Sinocan Supply Inc., which featured two premium baijiu prizes: Dream Blue M6+ and Yanghe Daqu. Each bottle encapsulated the essence of Chinese baijiu’s artisanal excellence.
As the winners stepped forward amidst applause and laughter, they received not only exquisite gifts but heartfelt Christmas blessings that added warmth and joy to the festive celebration.
The gala dinner radiated a holiday spirit of warmth and celebration. Surrounded by festive lights and cheerful conversations, attendees immersed themselves in the harmonious blend of table tennis and Yanghe baijiu culture, appreciating the rich heritage and distinctive charm of China and Canada. It was more than just a ceremony honoring past achievements—it was a cultural feast that envisioned future collaborations, imbued with the unity and hope of the holiday season. The evening set the stage for a promising new year, full of opportunities and goodwill.
The success of CCTTA’s 2024 Christmas Gala Dinner symbolized a deeper commitment to cultural exchange between Canada and China while reinvigorating the global spirit of table tennis. Looking forward, Sinocan Supply Inc. and CCTTA aim to continue working hand in hand, leveraging sports and culture to build bridges across nations and craft new chapters of friendship and collaboration.