The 2024 China Mudflat Outdoor Sports Challenge is held at Xieqian Port in Xiangshan county, Ningbo, on Aug 24. [Photo/Ningbo Daily]

The thrilling 2024 China Mudflat Outdoor Sports Challenge ignited Xieqian Port in Xiangshan county, Ningbo, on Aug 24, attracting 32 sports teams and 300 families from across the country.

Over the course of two days, participants engaged in a series of exhilarating challenges, including mudflat cargo races, speed skating, towing contests, relays, tug-of-wars, and paddleboarding adventures.

One of the standouts was the innovative "Mud Horse", a traditional tool transformed into a high-speed racing vessel. Once used by fishermen to navigate the mudflats in search of seafood, the "Mud Horse" now propels athletes across the slippery terrain, bringing a fresh twist to the sport and captivating spectators.

"This is my first-time playing mudflat sports, and it's absolutely amazing! The thrill is unparalleled," said Jiang Fan, a participant from Wenzhou.

The competition site boasts a stunning 15-kilometer stretch of coastline with abundant mudflats. Specially prepared areas, spanning over 1,000 square meters, have been meticulously designed to ensure a safe yet challenging experience for all, with a carefully calibrated tread depth of 30 centimeters.

Xiangshan's marine sports industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from modest beginnings to a thriving sector embracing immersive outdoor recreation, rich cultural experiences, and exhilarating coastal sports.