Global elites gather for ice dragon boat race in north China's Inner Mongolia

The Xiliin Gol International Ice Dragon Boat Championship, a two-day event that kicked off in Xiliinhot, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, on Monday, attracted flocks of spectators and showcased top-tier teams from around the world.　

The competition brought together 20 teams and nearly 400 athletes from multiple countries and regions including China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy.　

It featured a variety of events, such as the 12-person 100-meter straight race, the five-person 100-meter straight race, and the 12-person 300-meter drifting turnaround race.　

Xiliin Gol League is known for its abundant ice and snow and extensive experience hosting winter sports. The dragon boat race offers competitors a chance to experience the local culture of China, according to Zhang Yu, head of chief referee of the Xiliin Gol International Ice Dragon Boat Championship.　

(Reported by Chen Feng, Ao Lan, Liu Siqi; Edited by Ma Yuxuan)