15th China Fishing Tournament brings together more than 1,200 participants from around the world
International sporting events often become meeting points for people from different countries, and the fishing tournament at Shengzhong Lake is one such example. Here, the excitement of competition is combined with social interaction, local culture and the distinctive atmosphere of a major international event.
More than 1,200 anglers from around the world gathered at Shengzhong Lake in Nanchong, southwest China's Sichuan Province. The 15th China International Fishing Tournament opened Monday with a colorful opening ceremony.
This year's event features three major competitions: the National Pond Fishing Tournament, the National Reservoir Fishing Tournament and the International Boat Fishing Tournament.
For many international participants, visiting Shengzhong Lake has already become a tradition. Some have returned for the fourth time, saying the tournament has become a special meeting place for anglers from different countries, where sporting competition goes hand in hand with cultural exchange.
"This is my fourth time here at Shengzhong Lake, and my heart skips a beat when I see the invitation. I have so many friends from all over the world here, and meeting them again is incredibly exciting. We got together for hot pot, I think there were about 15 of us from 10 countries, and it's always a wonderful experience," said Austrian angler Edi Brader.
Danish angler Dennis also highlighted the atmosphere of the tournament. "I really like it here, and I love fishing, the excitement, the people around me, the organizers and all the participants. I love all of it. It's perfect. I really like it here," he said.
For Australian angler Jack, the tournament is about more than the competition itself.
"If you look at it simply as a competition, I think you're here for the wrong reasons. It's about the people and the atmosphere. As soon as you come here, you immediately want to come back, so it's wonderful," he said.
Shengzhong Lake has hosted fishing competitions since 2009. This year's tournament will run through September 24. In addition to fishing, participants and spectators can enjoy local food and delicacies, explore traditional handicrafts and the region's fishing culture, and take in its scenic landscapes. As reported by CCTV+, the tournament has once again brought together participants from different countries, combining sporting competition with international cultural exchange.
