The first gold medal in coastal rowing in China's National Games history was awarded in Yangjiang, Guangdong, on November 16, as the sport made its debut as an official event at the 15th National Games.
Guangdong athletes Wang Yunfei and Zhang Guiping won gold in mixed double sculls with a time of 2:37.39, while teammates Mi Haoshuai and Wang Sen secured bronze with a time of 2:34.00.
Unlike traditional flatwater rowing, coastal rowing takes place in open seas, bays, or estuaries, requiring strong steering skills and high physical endurance. With natural conditions shaped by wind, waves, and tides, the races are both unpredictable and visually dynamic. The event is also set to appear on the Olympic program for the first time at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
At the competition venue on Hailing Island in Yangjiang, wind and waves created challenges for all athletes. "We expected rough conditions and trained specifically for them, especially techniques like riding and using the waves," said Li Jiahao, the coach of the Guangdong team.
In the final sprint, Wang Yunfei and Zhang Guiping delivered a steady and powerful performance to secure the gold, finishing 1.6 seconds ahead of the Fujian team. "We've fought hard to get here," she said. Next, she hoped to aim even higher and work toward competing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Author | Huang Xinying
Photo | Guangdong Yangjiang Fabu, Xinhua
Editor | Huang Qini, James Campion, Shen He
