Stepping up to the plate

Students take a swing at success on their very own field of dreams

XINING — Under the gentle sunshine, 12-year-old Lhamo Dondre and his teammates were immersed in a session of pitching practice on their school playground. Drenched in sweat, their coach signaled the beginning of the inning.

Lhamo Dondre hails from Gonghe county in Hainan Tibetan autonomous prefecture of Qinghai province, Northwest China. Two years ago, he joined the baseball team at No 1 Minzu Boarding Elementary School in Gonghe county.

At over 3,000 meters above sea level, Gonghe county boasts lush grasslands and serene valleys. The children raised here share a unique bond with nature, with many having experience in herding.