Foshan dragon boat team makes history with 7 medals at German world championships

On the final day of the 17th World Dragon Boat Championships in Germany (evening of July 20, Beijing time), the Foshan Jiujiang Women's Dragon Boat Team, representing China, delivered an outstanding performance in the elite 500m event, clinching gold with a time of 2:15.247. This victory completed their sweep of all women's events, earning them a total of four gold, one silver, and two bronze medals—their best result in the tournament's history.

Jiujiang paddlers share a celebratory moment with fellow international competitors.

Since the competition kicked off on July 14, the Jiujiang Dragon Boat Team has shown remarkable strength and unity. On July 15, they made history by winning their first-ever world title in the elite women's 2000m race, demonstrating exceptional endurance and strategy to finish first with a time of 10:01.643.

The team's momentum surged in the 200m sprint events on July 17 and 18. On July 17, Jiujiang's men's and women's teams joined forces to win gold in the 22-crew mixed elite 200m race with a time of 44.953. The following day, the women's team delivered a strong performance in the elite small boat 200m final, clinching another gold with a decisive lead and a time of 51.819.

In the elite 500m final on July 20, the Jiujiang women's team seized the lead from the start and steadily extended their advantage. Their dominant performance drew thunderous applause as they crossed the finish line first, securing gold. This victory marked a historic grand slam—sweeping all women's events with gold in the 200m, 500m, and 2000m races.

The Jiujiang women's team powers through the water during a championship race. 

The Jiujiang team proudly poses at the championship venue in Germany. 

Organized by the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), the World Championships are the sport's premier competition, drawing elite teams from over 30 countries and regions.

As China's first "Famous Dragon Boat Town," Nanhai Jiujiang in Foshan has long represented the nation in international competitions. This women's grand slam victory further cements Jiujiang's legacy and highlights China's dominance in global dragon boat racing.

Reporter | Sun Jingfeng

Photo | Jiujiang Town

Editor | Liu Lingzhi, James, Shen He