May 24, 2025 – Wenzhou University’s International Dragon Boat Team competed in the 2025 China Miluo River International Dragon Boat Invitational and the 2nd "Qu Yuan" Wine Cup Dragon Boat Super League in Miluo river, Hunan. Representing WZU, the team—composed of international students from Vietnam, Bangladesh, Morocco, Nigeria, Liberia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Somalia—faced fierce competition from 12 international teams, including Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Tongji University, Beijing Institute of Technology, and Central South University. With unwavering determination and remarkable teamwork, they secured second place in the International Group and second place in the University Group.

The Miluo River, known as the birthplace of dragon boat racing, holds deep cultural significance as the legendary poet Qu Yuan drowned here over 2,000 years ago. To honor his patriotism, locals raced boats to save him—a tradition that evolved into today’s vibrant dragon boat festivals.

The competition paid homage to Qu Yuan, the ancient Chinese poet whose tragic death in the Miluo River inspired the dragon boat tradition. Teams from around the world gathered not only to race but also to celebrate this enduring cultural legacy.

The race day was filled with excitement as drumbeats echoed along the Miluo River. At the sound of the starting gun, the WZU team sprang into action. Paddles sliced through the water in perfect unison, propelling their boat forward like an arrow. The drummer set a powerful rhythm, the steersman kept a sharp eye on the course, and the rowers moved as one, their sweat and splashing water glistening under the sun.

"The moment we crossed the finish line, all our exhaustion disappeared!" said Mike from Nigeria. "Dragon boat racing isn’t just about speed—it’s about teamwork. We proved the true spirit of WZU’s international students!"

Behind this achievement lay months of relentless training. Since its formation on December 18, 2024, the team had undergone rigorous preparation under Coach Zhu Minyuan. From mastering paddling techniques to perfecting teamwork, every detail was carefully honed. Even during the May Day holiday, while most students relaxed, the team trained six hours a day, pushing their limits in endurance, coordination, and strategy.

"We come from different countries, but we unite for one goal," said team captain Rowan from Vietnam. "The training was tough, but every improvement made us stronger!"

Their hard work paid off spectacularly on the Miluo River, showcasing WZU’s international students’ perseverance, unity, and competitive spirit to the world.