Zibo's winter swimming enthusiasts showcased resilience and camaraderie at the Amur Cup International Winter Swimming Competition held in Vladivostok, Russia on Jan 8. 

Over 220 participants from China and Russia braved temperatures below 20 degrees Celsius, embodying strong determination to join in the games and fostering cross-cultural friendships.

The competition saw remarkable achievements for Zibo's winter swimming team, with Wang Tao clinching first place in the 200-meter endurance race, fifth in the 25-meter breaststroke, and seventh in the 25-meter freestyle.

Participants from Zibo, Shandong, take a group photo with Russian counterparts. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Beyond the competition, Zibo's team actively promoted Chinese culture, deepening cultural exchange with Russian counterparts. Gregory, a Russian participant, expressed delight in learning about Chinese and Zibo culture and a keen interest in visiting Zibo in the future.

The International Winter Swimming Competition held in Russia, now in its seventh year, continues to serve as a platform for promoting winter swimming culture and strengthening the bonds between China and Russia. The event not only highlights sporting achievements but also fosters mutual understanding and appreciation for each other's cultures.

Zibo's winter swimming team's success in both competition and cultural exchange underscores the power of sports in building bridges and promoting friendship on the international stage.