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The 2023 "Grand Canal Shaoxing Stand-Up Paddling (SUP) Competition" kicked off at the Yingenmen scenic area in Yuecheng district, Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, on Nov 12.

The competition, being held for the third year in a row, has become a top event in China. It combines the ancient canal and modern paddle sports.

The competition includes two events: a 100m sprint and a 4,000m distance race. Athletes are divided into expert, open and teenager groups, and further divided by gender, resulting in a total of six groups.

Many athletes participated for the second or third time. There are also some SUP experts, like Jiang Yulong and Chen Yanjun.

The track in the Yingenmen scenic area suits the competition well, with its wide waterway and calm water. It is considered one of the most beautiful SUP tracks in China by many athletes.

Jiang, champion of the male open group in last year's competition, came first again. He said that the beautiful track and surrounding historical and cultural atmosphere were the most memorable things about the Shaoxing SUP Competition.

On Nov 11, a special PK competition between a dark-awninged boat and paddle board was held to better showcase the unique features of this ancient city.

In addition to taking part in or watching the competition, some people come to Shaoxing just to travel.