Top universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, compete in the 2025 Nanjing International University Rowing Open.
On September 14, the Nanjing International Universities Rowing Open came to a thrilling close on the scenic Waiqinhuai River. Rowers from 30 universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, Tsinghua, Peking University, and Nanjing University, competed fiercely over two days, showcasing skill, teamwork, and determination.
Rowing with a Historic Legacy
The Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, first held in 1829, inspired this event in China. Often compared to England’s Premier League or Wimbledon, the race is nearly 200 years old and considered the origin of modern competitive rowing. China’s rowing scene is younger but has grown rapidly, now leading in Asia.
This year’s Open featured sprint races, relay challenges on rowing machines, and the traditional Bumps Race—a nod to Oxford and Cambridge’s classic competition. For the first time, women’s teams competed as a separate category. Teams from the University of Washington, Amsterdam University, ShanghaiTech University, and Tongji University delivered thrilling performances.
Champions and Cultural Exchange
After intense races, the winners emerged. In the men’s category, University of Otago claimed gold, ETH Zurich took silver, and Tongji University won bronze. In the women’s category, the University of Washington captured gold, Amsterdam University earned silver, and Tongji University took bronze.
Cambridge rower Nimal de Silva (Peterhouse College) said, “It’s my first time in Nanjing, and I wish I could stay longer. The culture and city life have been eye-opening.” Beyond the competition, participants built friendships across borders and connected deeply with the city through campus visits and cultural tours.
The 2025 Nanjing International Universities Rowing Open not only highlighted athletic excellence but also celebrated global youth exchange, tradition, and the spirit of rowing.
Additional reporting by Nanjing Morning Post, CNS.
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