Participants swim across the Qiantang River against the backdrop of Hangzhou's iconic CBD skyline. [Photo/2026 Qiantang River Crossing]

Nearly 3,500 swimmers took part in Hangzhou's annual Qiantang River Crossing on July 19, one of the city's signature mass sporting events.

Wearing bright orange safety floats, participants swam across the river against the backdrop of the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center and the Qiantang River skyline.

The men's elite title went to 18-year-old Wang Zihao, a freshman at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, who completed the crossing in 23 minutes and 31 seconds. A freestyle specialist who began swimming at age six, Wang said he had expected a strong result after competing in the recreational category last year.

Revived in 2006, the Qiantang River Crossing has grown into one of Hangzhou's best-known public sporting events. This year's top eight finishers received local specialty prizes, including softshell turtles and organic fish from Qiandao Lake.

The event also showcased Hangzhou's strong swimming tradition, with several young athletes finishing among the top eight. Eleven-year-old Zhang Xiyue placed sixth in the elite race, while many children also completed the public crossing alongside thousands of other participants.

Swimmers reach the finish. [Photo/2026 Qiantang River Crossing]