CHINA’S biggest earthquake in 32 years has shaken all aspects of life and the sports world is no exception.

    The State General Administration for Sports has vowed to donate 5 million yuan (US$714,000) to relief efforts while athletes are keen to provide further assistance to the quake-hit area in Sichuan Province.

    “We will make the donation on behalf of our Olympic athletes,” read a statement released Wednesday. “We would like to do whatever we can and we are ready to respond anytime.”

    Joining the administration is NBA all-star center Yao Ming, who has promised to donate 2 million yuan.

    Badminton head coach Li Yongbo, who is leading the national team at the Thomas and Uber Cups in Indonesia, and snooker star Ding Junhui have each provided 100,000 yuan.

    Other athletes who donated for the quake victims include hurdler Liu Xiang and his coach (500,000 yuan), diver Guo Jingjing (100,000 yuan), footballer Fan Zhiyi (50,000 yuan) and NBA player Yi Jianlian (100,000 yuan).

    The eighth round of the Chinese soccer Super League that was scheduled for Wednesday, was postponed until Saturday. The Chinese Football Association (CFA) is planning to stage a series of charity competitions to raise money for Sichuan.

    “The charity games are at the top of our agenda,” said Lu Feng, director of the league’s managing company. “We want to help those who are suffering from the quake.” (SD-Agencies)