Wuhan welcomes the world’s military athletes for the 54th WMC Naval Pentathlon

WUHAN (CHN) – The grand Opening Ceremony of the 54th CISM World Military Naval Pentathlon Championship took place on 19 October 2025 at the Mulan Lake Campus of the Naval University of Engineering in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.

CISM delegations from China, South Africa, Brazil, Cambodia, Spain, Iran, Italy, Pakistan, and Russia participated, together with observer nations from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Myanmar.

In accordance with CISM traditions, athletes entered the venue accompanied by the melody of “Ode to the Motherland.” The official declaration of the opening was made by Rear Admiral Wang Xianzhong, Deputy Chief of Staff of the People Liberation Army Navy.

In his opening address, Mr. Meng Hui, Deputy Mayor of Wuhan City, expressed his gratitude to CISM for its trust in allowing Wuhan to once again host CISM member nations on the shores of Mulan Lake. Speaking on behalf of the Municipal Party Secretary, the Wuhan Municipal Committee, and the Municipal Government, he encouraged all participants to embrace the culture and spirit of Wuhan.

“Sport is the universal language that bridges cultures and the sacred thread that weaves the tapestry of friendship. It is our sincere wish that this Championship becomes a shining beacon of camaraderie among the armed forces, and that every guest carries a piece of Wuhan’s unique charm and vibrant energy in their hearts,” he said.

Rear Admiral Peng Tao, President of the Naval University of Engineering and of the Local Organizing Committee, thanked CISM for its confidence in the University. He reminded the military athletes that they are not only competitors but also ambassadors of peace.

Representing the CISM President Colonel Nilton Rolim, the CISM Secretary General Navy Captain Roberto Recchia, and the entire CISM Family, Colonel Joseph Bakari of Tanzania, the Official CISM Representative, expressed his gratitude to China for hosting the Championship and to all delegations for their commitment to military sport. He highlighted China’s long-standing and significant contributions to the International Military Sports Council: “Since joining our organization in 1978, China has consistently played an active, pioneering, and influential role in the development of military sports and in promoting peace and friendship through sport. Among the most remarkable examples is the hosting of the 7th CISM Military World Summer Games in 2019, right here in Wuhan, a milestone that will remain in CISM history for generations to come.”

Colonel Bakari also assured the athletes that CISM considers each of them a true champion, and encouraged them to compete with integrity and fairness.

During the ceremony, athlete Zhang Na took the oath on behalf of all participants, pledging to respect and abide by the rules of the Championship, while referee Jia Huifeng took the oath of impartiality on behalf of all referees.

The ceremony was attended by PCSC Naval Pentathlon Corporal Roccofabio Miseo (ITA), members of the CISM Sports Commission, senior officers of the Chinese armed forces, Wuhan city officials, and the general public.

The opening also featured impressive displays of traditional Chinese culture, highlighting the rich heritage of Hubei Province through performances of chime bells, folk songs, and martial arts.

The competitions will continue at the University’s state-of-the-art facilities from 20 to 23 October 2025, featuring men’s and women’s individual and team events. More than 100 military athletes will compete in the traditional Naval Pentathlon disciplines, celebrating excellence, friendship, and peace through sport.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department and Chinese Delegation to CISM)