On April 26, 2026, Zhang Ziyang, an undergraduate from the School of Physical Education, Central China Normal University (CCNU), claimed the gold medal in the Men’s 5 km Open Water Swimming at the 6th Asian Beach Games held in Sanya, Hainan province. This victory marked the 10th gold medal for the Chinese sports delegation at the Games.
The Asian Beach Games, organized by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), is one of Asia’s five major comprehensive multi-sport events. The 2026 edition ran from April 22 to 30, with nearly 1,800 athletes from 45 countries and regions competing.
Zhang led from start to finish in tough wave conditions, finishing with a time of 53:46.00. He previously won gold in the Men’s 10 km Marathon Swimming at the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou. He mentioned that he will keep gaining international experience, contribute to China’s open water swimming, and strive for excellence at the Olympic Games
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CCNU has built high-level competitive sports programs with strengths in badminton, swimming and athletics. The university has nurtured a number of elite athletes including Zhang Ziyang, who have collectively won 9 world championships.
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