Amid the resounding beat of drums and a festive flurry of flags, the 4th edition of the Greater Bay Area MBA Dragon Boat Race, officially titled the 'Hanjiang Cup' 2025, was successfully held today along the Shiqiao Waterway in Panyu District, Guangzhou.
The event brought together teams from over 20 top-tier business schools—including Peking University, Sun Yat-sen University, and South China University of Technology—in a spirited display of teamwork and athleticism.
Jointly organized by the Greater Bay Area MBA Elite Club and the Shunde Alumni Association of South China University of Technology, the race was title-sponsored by Guangzhou Xinjiuwang Trading Co., Ltd., and co-hosted by the club’s Sports & Culture Division and Qianyou Sports.
As one of the key cultural events leading up to China’s 15th National Games, the race was a vivid showcase of the convergence between traditional Chinese culture and modern business education.
Preserving Heritage, Inspiring Leadership
In his opening remarks, Yang Wei, President of the Greater Bay Area MBA Elite Club, noted:
“Now in its fourth year, this race has become more than just a sporting event—it’s an essential platform for collaboration and exchange among business schools across the region.
Through the traditional sport of dragon boating, we celebrate the spirit of unity, determination, and forward momentum that also defines the next generation of business leaders.”
Echoing that sentiment, Zhang Rufei of Moutai Jiangxiang Liquor Marketing Co., Ltd. drew a parallel between dragon boat racing and the meticulous “12987” craftsmanship method behind Moutai’s signature baijiu:
“Both traditions embody a pursuit of excellence and the spirit of craftsmanship that transcends time.”
Race Day Highlights
High-level competition: Months of training culminated in a fiercely competitive race, with teams demonstrating impressive coordination and athleticism.
Spectators were treated to a striking spectacle of paddles slicing through the water, generating both excitement and admiration.
Cultural immersion: Alongside the races, the event featured a cultural showcase zone, liquor tasting experiences, and traditional displays—offering guests a multi-sensory appreciation of Chinese heritage.
Team spirit in action: “Only when every paddler gives their all and rows in perfect rhythm can we truly succeed,” said the captain of the Sun Yat-sen University Feilong Team, underscoring the core values shared by sports and business alike.
Awards and Recognition
After a full day of intense competition, the Feilong Team from Sun Yat-sen University emerged as the overall champion.
The South China University of Technology 'Tiger Team', Lanzhou University 'Eagle Team', and the Greater Bay Area United Team earned First Prize honors.
Third Prize was awarded to teams including Northwestern Polytechnical University 'Swordcasting Team', Hong Kong Baptist University 'Enjoy 1' and 'Enjoy 2' Teams, and Dalian University of Technology 'Baodi Team'.
Additional accolades such as the Best Team Spirit Award were presented to recognize outstanding performance and sportsmanship across the board.
Tradition Meets Modern Business Values
Event organizers emphasized that the race serves not only as a platform for sport and culture, but also as a reminder of the values essential to today’s business professionals.
“Dragon boat racing reflects the qualities of unity, resilience, and collective strength—all of which are indispensable in the corporate world,” noted one of the event officials.
Participants echoed this sentiment, sharing that beyond physical challenge, the event reinforced the importance of collaboration and trust—key pillars in both rowing and management.
Li Bin, General Manager of title sponsor Guangzhou Xinjiuwang Trading Co., Ltd., remarked:
“What this race embodies—teamwork, perseverance, and strategic synergy—are the same attributes that define effective entrepreneurship and leadership today.”
A Platform for Future Dialogue
As the race concluded at 5pm, organizers extended heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, partners, and volunteers, expressing hopes to grow the event in years to come.
By blending a centuries-old tradition with contemporary business culture, the 'Hanjiang Cup' has become a signature event for Greater Bay Area MBA communities—celebrating shared heritage, fostering exchange, and inspiring future leaders.
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