The canoe sprint events of the 15th National Games concluded on Nov 20 at the Guangdong International Rowing Center. The competition, which began on Nov 16, spanned five days and featured nearly 400 athletes from 27 teams across the country, culminating in the awarding of 12 gold medals.

The athletes' award ceremony. [Photo/WeChat account: gz_baiyunfabu]

On the final day, four finals were held, including the women's 200-meter double canoe and the men's 500-meter four-person kayak. The Fujian duo Lin Xialian and Lin Wenjun secured the gold in the women's 200-meter double canoe. Lin Xialian, competing in her third National Games, expressed her joy at finally winning gold and emphasized the importance of trust in pair events. Lin Wenjun also highlighted how mutual trust helped them handle the pressure.

Shandong athlete Zhang Dong achieved double gold in the men's 1000-meter single kayak and the men's 500-meter four-person kayak. He expressed gratitude for the excellent facilities and announced plans to prepare for the Los Angeles Olympics.

With the canoe sprint events concluded, the organizing committee has shifted its focus to preparing for the Paralympic rowing competitions, which are scheduled to run until Dec 12.