From September 7th to 12th, the 15th National Dragon and Lion Dance Championships took place in Nanjing. Supported by the International Dragon and Lion Dance Federation and organized by the China Dragon and Lion Dance Association, this prestigious event was co-hosted by Jiangsu Province’s Social Sports Management Center and Nanjing University of Science and Technology. SCMU's dragon dance team, showcasing exceptional skill and coordination, clinched the second prize in the Creative Dragon and Lion Dance category. Additionally, the team earned fifth place in the Men’s Freestyle Dragon Dance Routine and seventh place in the Men’s Obstacle Course Dragon Dance.

Led by Zhang Huaicheng, Vice Dean of the School of Physical Education, with coaching from Guan Yunshen, 11 skilled athletes from SCMU participated in the championships. Their performances not only demonstrated teamwork and spirit but also earned them the eligibility to apply for national first-level athlete status in the dragon dance category, according to the China Dragon and Lion Dance Association’s regulations.

SCMU’s athletes in the dragon dance   Photo provided by Guan Yunshen

The championship featured two main categories: dragon and lion dance, with the dragon dance category alone attracting over 1,000 participants from 19 provinces and cities nationwide. The event brought together a diverse array of teams, including university teams, community teams, and various art groups, creating a vibrant showcase of traditional culture and sportsmanship.

Recognized as the most professional and comprehensive national-level A-class event in its field, the Championships provided a platform for teams to exchange insights and skills, celebrating the rich heritage of dragon and lion dance. The lion dance category of this year's competition is set to commence on October 2nd at Nanjing’s Happy Valley, continuing the spirit of cultural and athletic excellence.

Edited by Liu Qiong,  Reviewed by Lei Changsheng