More than 500 athletes from 30 provinces across China gathered to compete in a mass paddle sport event on a millennium-old waterway connects cultural heritage with modern sport.
From June 6 to 7, the 2026 "Grand Canal" Canoe Marathon Series (Hangzhou Station) and the second Hangzhou Mass Canoeing Open were held in Hangzhou.
As one of China's most influential mass canoeing events, the "Grand Canal" Canoe Marathon Series aims to rely on the rich historical and cultural resources along the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal to promote the popularisation and development of canoeing.
This Hangzhou event featured 10km Canoe Ocean Racing and Stand Up Paddling events, covering both the mass open division and the mass master division.
The age of participants ranged from 15 to 65 years old.
The event attracted not only experienced enthusiasts but also grassroots participants, offering them a platform to showcase their skills and connect with others.
The race route was located in the core waters of the Hangzhou section of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, connecting important landmarks such as the Wulinmen Pier and the Gongchen Bridge.
During the race, participants paddled through ancient bridges and canal landscapes, closely appreciating the cultural heritage carried by this ancient World Cultural Heritage waterway while experiencing the competitive challenge.
In recent years, China's mass canoeing has maintained a strong momentum of growth, with an increasing number of cities starting to host mass events and experience activities based on their natural water resources.
By consistently hosting the Grand Canal canoeing events, Hangzhou explores an innovative model that integrates cultural heritage protection, urban waterfront space utilization, and sports activities, creating conditions for more citizens to access and participate in water sports.
In addition to the official competition, the organisers also held mass canoeing experience activities during the event, attracting numerous citizens and tourists to try out canoeing and paddling.
Under professional guidance and safety assurance, participants of different age groups embraced the water and enjoyed the fun of paddling, further bridging the distance between the public and water sports.
As the guiding organisation of the event, the International Canoe Federation Hangzhou Representative Office participated in supporting the competition.
This event demonstrated the crucial role of mass sports events in fostering community participation, activating urban water spaces, and connecting cultural heritage with modern life.
Related links
