The 2026 Guangzhou International Dragon Boat Invitational Tournament took place on the Pearl River on June 20, with the city's Baiyun district emerging as a big winner, claiming two titles.

The event brought together 105 teams and over 3,800 athletes representing 20 countries and regions to compete in the 600-meter straight races across four categories.

The Guangzhou International Dragon Boat Race heats up. [Photo/WeChat account: gz_baiyunfabu]

Baiyun sent 15 teams and over 400 athletes, and four reached the finals. The newly formed Jinbo Commerce and Trade Dragon Boat Team won the men's open group, while Renhe Town Team claimed the women's open group, giving the district its first-ever double championship.

The Renhe Town Team battles for glory. [Photo/WeChat account: gz_baiyunfabu]

Li Zhanhong, a member of the Jinbo Team, said his teammates had trained for three months to master the river's tricky currents. Renhe's Guan Peishi noted their two-month intensive training and young squad (post-90s and post-00s) built great teamwork.

Shimen Street Yagang Women's Dragon Boat Team, a finalist for several years, placed fifth again. Their captain, Cai Yanzhen, praised the team's unity despite ranging in age from 29 to 60. The teams now look forward to the district race on July 4.

The races draw large crowds along the riverside. [Photo/WeChat account: gz_baiyunfabu]