The 2023 Shanghai Youth Land-based Rowing Invitational Tournament was held on Oct 15 at Shanghai Yuehu Lake Sculpture Park – located in the Sheshan National Resort, in the Songjiang district of East China's Shanghai.
Land-based rowing – also known as indoor rowing – is a form of rowing that takes place on stationary rowing machines. These machines simulate the motion and resistance of rowing a boat on a lake or a river, allowing athletes to practice and compete in rowing without the need for access to an actual body of water.
Indoor rowing machines are lined up, ready for use. [Photo/WeChat account: sheshanlvyou]
The tournament was jointly arranged by the Songjiang District Sports Bureau and the Songjiang District Education Bureau. In addition, the Shenxin Master Sailing Club – an accredited professional facility recognized by the American Sailing Association – helped organize the event.
Over 100 young athletes from eight districts in the city participated in this year's invitational tournament. After a day of stiff competition, 18 athletes emerged as the top three in six different categories.
Award-winning athletes take the stage for a group photo. [Photo/WeChat account: sheshanlvyou]
As the first city-level youth sports event held in Songjiang district, the tournament is said to be particularly significant in local sports development.
At the recently concluded 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou – capital city of East China's Zhejiang province – China's rowing team achieved an excellent performance, with 11 gold and two silver medals. That effort is said to embody the Olympic spirit of Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together, serving as role models for today's young athletes.
Likewise, land-based rowing is a challenging sport that helps to develop the determination of athletes and fosters a competitive spirit.
The successful organization of this year's tournament is expected to contribute to the broader impact of the Asian Games and provide a professional platform for young athletes, inspiring them to strive for success and self-improvement.
Competing athletes give it their all at the competition venue. [Photo/WeChat account: sheshanlvyou]
What's more, it is widely said that this event will inject new momentum into the development of youth sports and encourage more folks to engage in them – infusing fresh blood into the local sports industry.
Moving forwards, plans are for the Shenxin Master Sailing Club to host more outstanding youth sports events, contributing to the realization of China's dream of becoming a sports powerhouse.
