A fierce ice dragon boat race is held in Xiliinhot on Jan 20. [Photo/Xiliin Gol League Integrated Media Center]

The Xiliin Gol International Ice Dragon Boat Championship kicked off in Xiliinhot on Jan 20, attracting over 3,000 spectators and showcasing top-tier teams from around the world.

The competition brought together 20 teams and nearly 400 athletes from countries including China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy.

It featured a variety of events, such as the 12-person 100-meter straight race, the five-person 100-meter straight race, and the 12-person 300-meter drifting turnaround race.

Participants wave to the audience after finishing the competition. [Photo/Xiliin Gol League Integrated Media Center]

A fierce ice dragon boat race is held in Xiliinhot on Jan 20. [Photo/Xiliin Gol League Integrated Media Center]

The event began with the 200-meter straight race for 12-person teams in the open category, where five groups competed fiercely. The five-person 200-meter straight race followed, with teams advancing through preliminary, semi-final, and final rounds in their quest for victory.

Xiliin Gol League is known for its abundant ice and snow and extensive experience hosting winter sports. It is the first place in China to host this prestigious competition, for which it has earned high praise from the International Ice Dragon Boat Federation.

A fierce ice dragon boat race is held in Xiliinhot on Jan 20. [Photo/Xiliin Gol League Integrated Media Center]

Participants pose for a photo at the Xiliin Gol International Ice Dragon Boat Championship. [Photo/Xiliin Gol League Integrated Media Center]