Zhejiang University’s Dragon Boat Team: Paddling Towards Excellence and Community Outreach
With straight backs and loud chants, the members of the Zhejiang University Dragon Boat Team coordinated their rowing strokes with speed and strength, one after another, paddling away from the bridge. Every Tuesday morning at 6 o’clock, rain or shine, the team members would diligently engage in their early training on Zijingang Campus.
Birth of the Dragon Boat Team
In 2011, the dragon boat team was founded on the Zijingang Campus by Prof. WU Yehai from the Department of Public Physical Education and Arts. With collaborative efforts from coaches FU Jiandong, XU Yaping, and ZHAI Wangwang, the team initially trained with limited resources but steadily ascended to represent the University on a national stage. Over a decade, it evolved into a robust sports team comprised of over 50 dedicated student athletes.
The remarkable achievements are the result of long-term commitment to a scientific training system, said PAN Benxiang (’24, Architecture), former captain of the man’s team. Coach ZHAI Wangwang leaves no detail unattended, meticulously addressing posture, power generation, body control, and water techniques during training sessions. The use of sports cameras to capture every motion ensures targeted feedback, aiding team members in their constant pursuit of improvement.
Glory on the national stage
Beyond campus borders, the team has consistently represented the University in a variety of domestic and international competitions. In the last five years alone, they have clinched the top spot twice, secured second place three times, and finished in third place seven times in the national-level events.
The team’s determination and fearlessness were on full display at the 2019 China Dragon Boat Championships, the highest-level competition of its kind in the nation. Despite trailing in the early stages, the men’s team powered to a bronze medal in the 100-meter event with a final stroke push. The women’s team also made their presence felt, defeating established powerhouses to secure a commendable fourth-place finish in their inaugural appearance.
Sharing the dragon boat spirit
As the dragon boat racing evolves from a traditional folk activity to a modern sport program, ZJU’s Dragon Boat Team remains at the forefront of this cultural promotion. Within the university community, they integrate dragon boat values into various aspects of campus life, including classroom presentations, research projects, and speech competitions.
The team’s commitment also extends beyond the campus to inspire new generations. They visit primary schools, sharing their knowledge of dragon boats and the cultural stories behind them.
“We hope that through our own efforts, we can contribute to the inheritance and promotion of dragon boat sports and culture, while also welcoming more fresh talent to join our team, said ZHAI Wangwang.