Participants play SUP ball on the Haohe River in Nantong. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The 2025 Yangtze River Delta Stand-Up Paddle Ball Invitational Tournament (Nantong Haohe River station) commenced on Aug 16, drawing eight professional clubs from the YRD region.

As a developing derivative of paddle sports, stand-up paddle (SUP) ball integrates elements of speed, strength, and agility, merging the disciplines of basketball, soccer, and water polo. It requires a high degree of team cooperation and boasts competitiveness and entertainment. The sport tests participants' balance and demands a blend of strength and skill, making it a novel and popular sport.

Participants play SUP ball on the Haohe River in Nantong. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The Haohe River, known as the Mother River of Nantong, carries the city's historical memories and boasts exceptional water quality. This event marks the first time the river has hosted such a project.

A national-standard 40 meters x 20m floating field is set up on the river. The tournament features an open category (ages 18-65) with a point-based system, progressing through preliminary and final rounds. Interactive events amp up the thrill: A precision shooting contest puts accuracy and stability to the test, while a fast-paced ball dribbling race pushes speed and skills to the limit.

Participants play SUP ball on the Haohe River in Nantong. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

"Each team consists of four players, each half lasting 15 minutes and a 5-minute halftime break. The fast pace tests stamina management," said Liu Xuesong, captain of the Hangzhou IOCC Paddle Team. Having visited Nantong a decade ago, he praised the Haohe River highly, saying, "The water is calm, and the scenery is beautiful. Competing here is a pleasure."