By Hana Al Dayyat
OCA Young Reporter
Sanya, China, April 24, 2026: The Chinese women's dragon boat team delivered a dominant performance today to claim the gold medal in the women's 12-person 100-meter straight race at the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China.
The competition took place at the Sanya River venue, where dragon boat racing made its highly anticipated debut at these Games.
The final did not begin smoothly. As the boats lined up at the starting point, the Vietnamese crew started paddling earlier than the official signal. The race judge immediately issued a warning to Vietnam for the false start, as the four crews made their way back to the start line.
Despite the early disruption, China remained unfazed. From the starting signal, the Chinese crew established an immediate lead, showcasing flawless synchronization and explosive power from the first drumbeat to the final paddle stroke. They crossed the finish line with a winning time of 28.260 seconds.
Vietnam claimed the silver medal with a time of 28.516 seconds, finishing just 0.256 seconds behind the Chinese team, a razor thin margin that highlighted how close the race truly was.
Thailand secured the bronze medal with a time of 29.631 seconds.
This gold medal carries special significance for the Chinese women's dragon boat team. Speaking after the race, Chinese team member Cai Xintong shared her emotions:
"This is our first gold medal breakthrough, a gold medal in the competition, and the first gold medal for the women's team. We have brought honor to the country. We carried the mission and we have achieved it. Thank you."
With the 100-meter title secured, the Chinese women's team will now set their sights on the remaining distances. The 200-meter and 400-meter races will take place over the coming days as China aims for a clean sweep of all three women's gold medals.
In the men's division, China also claimed gold in the 100m race, followed by Thailand in second place and Chinese Taipei in third.
