This year is the 51st year of the annual Wuhan Yangtze River Crossing Festival. It continues a long tradition in China that demonstrates strength and vitality for swimmers from all over the world as they compete in a challanging open water swim across the Yangtze River.

UC has been offered an opportunity to apply to take part in this years event, July 13th - 16th 2026. We’re looking for 2 UC students chaperoned by a UC staff member to represent the University of Canterbury on the international stage.

Eligibility

To be considered, you must:

• Be a current UC student in 2026 (proof of enrolment required).
• Aged 14 to 45 during the time of the event in July 2026.
• Sound physical condition.
• Open water swimming experience preferred.
• You should be able to swim 400m freestyle in a 50m pool within around 4:21:00 (for men), or 4:44:00 (for women).
• An experience long distance swimmer, as the route is 1800m in length.
• Be willing to comply with group travel and race requirements, including a medical checkup within 1 month of the race (the cost of this medical check will be at the cost of the student).
• Must hold a current passport with an expiry grater than 6-months from the date of return.

Tentative Schedule

Application Deadline: 31st May 2026.

Event Dates: 13th July - 17th July 2026.

What is Covered

The Wuhan Sports Bureau will select participants from sister cities based on top-tier times achieved during the selection process. A limited number of athletes will be chosen for a fully funded trip. Selection occurs throughout May, based on the timing of applications, with faster times increasing the likelihood of being selected.

How To Apply

Send an expression of interest via email to josiah.leigh@canterbury.ac.nz including:

• Your 400m swim time.
• Any open water swim or triathalon events you have competed in.
• Details of any events you have participated in during 2025.

Selections will be made by a panel including UC Rec&Sport, and High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ).

Submitting an expression of interest does not guarantee selection.

Applicants will be contacted shortly after the selection process to confirm:

• Whether they have been selected for the UC team, and
• Whether their place has been approved for full funding by the Wuhan Sports Bureau

[By submitting your information, you acknowledge and consent to it being shared with the selection panel for the purpose of assessment and for the panel to contact you directly regarding your application, including any follow-up questions.]

Applications close soon. Do not miss the chance to apply for this awesome opportunity!

Hydrological and Meterological Conditions

Details from past events

Schedule