On October 26, the 2024 Dashahe Rowing Invitational took place at the Dasha River Ecological Corridor in Nanshan, Shenzhen. The event was organized by the Nanshan District People's Government and undertaken by the Nanshan Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism, and Sports, with guidance from the Chinese Rowing Association. Shenzhen University (SZU) was well-represented, with its rowing team participating as a local entrant. Twenty students from the College of International Studies, majoring in English, French, German, and Spanish, volunteered as bilingual support for the event. Additionally, international faculty and students from SZU came to cheer on the competitors and enjoy the vibrant cultural and creative market at the sports festival.
Rowing teams from nine countries compete together as SZU enjoys the race
As the sun illuminated the Dasha River, the competition began. Ten high-level international rowing teams from nine countries—Australia, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Denmark, France, Germany, New Zealand, and Italy—gathered alongside nine teams from Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Macao. The athletes sliced through the waves, leaving vibrant trails in their wake as they raced.
After an intense competition, the SZU rowing team showcased their talent, finishing fifth in both the men's double sculls and the mixed quadruple sculls events at the 500-meter distance in the university division. Notably, Xiao Jing, a student from the College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, secured an impressive fourth place in the 500-meter women's single sculls, exemplifying the youthful vigor and determination of SZU students.
SZU volunteers earn accolades for enhancing cultural exchange at the event
At this event, 20 bilingual volunteers from the College of International Studies at SZU provided comprehensive support to the participating teams. In addition to assisting during the competition, these dedicated volunteers accompanied international athletes throughout their multi-day schedules, offering translation services and guiding them on visits to Nantou Ancient Town and some high-tech companies. Their contributions not only ensured the smooth operation of the event but also fostered meaningful cultural exchanges between Chinese and international youth, earning them high praise from the organizers.
SZU's international faculty and students cheer on competitors on-site
On the day of the competition, nearly 20 international faculty members and students from SZU were present at the event, passionately supporting their national teams or favorite competitors.
Many of them captured the thrilling moments on social media. Xavier Gilbert, a French teacher, shared a collage of photos with the caption, "It feels just like the 'Shenzhen Olympics!'" Hungarian teacher Peter Hajdu posted a short video about this exciting competition on his WeChat Moments.
Reuniting with fellow countrymen at the event brought not only joy but also rich cultural exchanges. They explored Chinese sports culture and technological innovations at the "Sports Festival" cultural and creative market, engaging in friendly interactions with the athletes. As they shared their experiences of studying and living in China, they also gained deeper insights into the culture and spirit of rowing from the competitors. Volunteers, along with international faculty and students, served as ambassadors of friendship and culture, enhancing the atmosphere both inside and outside the competition venue. Their enthusiasm and camaraderie brought a vibrant energy to the event.
