SHANGHAI, June 25 -- Former NBA star Yao Ming and his wife, Ye Li, will feature in a forthcoming reality TV show that will challenge teenagers to team races.

The show, called "One Heart Racing," will make its debut on June 28 on the Dragon TV channel based in Shanghai, Yao's hometown.

Yao said he accepted the invitation to encourage teenagers in less developed regions of China to realize their dreams by working hard.

"I believe the audience will be touched seeing Ye Li and I participate in public affairs together in the show and share our great memories of competing with the kids," Yao said.

Working in teams, junior high school students in six cities will compete in physical challenges such as 20 people running with their legs tied together. Ye will also cook in front of camera.

Other celebrities, such as former badminton player Bao Chunlai and Olympic gymnastics champion Chen Yibing, will also feature in the show.