Chinese athletes sweep the Obstacle Race at the 54th WMC Naval Pentathlon
WUHAN (CHN) – The 54th WMC Naval Pentathlon entered its third day of competition on October 22, 2025, with athletes facing one of the most iconic and technically demanding events of the discipline, the Obstacle Race. Once again hosted at the Mulan Lake Campus of the Naval University of Engineering, the race tested the participants’ agility, strength and coordination in a fast-paced display of naval athleticism.
The Obstacle Race, the opening event of the Naval Pentathlon as defined by CISM Sports Regulations, covers 305 meters for men and 280 meters for women and features ten and nine obstacles respectively. Among its most challenging sections are the hurdle, balance beam, climbing net, grenade throw through a watertight door, tunnel and yard and footrope, all designed to simulate realistic situations encountered aboard ships or in naval operations. Competitors must clear all obstacles in sequence with both speed and precision, as penalties are applied for errors or incomplete maneuvers.
Under clear skies and excellent race conditions, 21 female athletes from seven nations and 43 male athletes from nine countries took part in this demanding test of endurance and skill. The Chinese delegation, demonstrating exceptional consistency and preparation, once again swept the podium in both the men’s and women’s competitions.
In the women’s category, Zhang Na (CHN) triumphed with an impressive time of 1’53”18, earning 1,184 points. She was followed by her teammates Li Shun (1’59”43) and Xiao Jiahui (1’59”78), completing a full Chinese podium.
In the men’s event, Guo Ziyan (CHN) continued his outstanding form, winning in 1’54”23 with 1,179 points, just ahead of Yang Jin (1’55”51) and Ye Rentang (1’57”00), both also representing China. Their collective performance reaffirmed China’s dominance and depth in this CISM-specific discipline.
The high technical standards and physical intensity of the event reflected the demanding preparation that characterizes the Naval Pentathlon, a competition that embodies the motto The sport of all navies.
The championship will now move toward its final stages, culminating with the Amphibious Cross Country Race, the decisive last individual event. The closing Obstacle Relay Race, combining teamwork and precision, will then bring this 54th edition to an energetic conclusion.
The 54th WMC Naval Pentathlon continues to highlight the values of the International Military Sports Council, Friendship through Sport, as military athletes from around the world demonstrate not only elite performance but also unity, discipline and mutual respect on and off the field.
(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department and Chinese Delegation to CISM)
