May 31, 2025 – The Wenzhou University (WZU) International Dragon Boat Team claimed first place in their group and fifth overall at the 2025 Fuzhou International Dragon Boat Invitational, competing against 70 teams from 30 countries.

The team, composed of 13 international students from eight countries, showcased exceptional teamwork in the intense races along Fuzhou’s Puxia River. Despite early coordination challenges, they mastered the rhythm of dragon boating, advancing through preliminaries with powerful, synchronized strokes.

“Paddling together creates a bond beyond language,” said Bangladesh’s Hosen Asif, reflecting on the cultural significance of the event.

Coach Zhu Minyuan praised the team’s perseverance, noting how they embodied the sport’s spirit of unity. Their success highlights dragon boating’s role in fostering global connections among youth.