For nearly two centuries, rowing has held a unique place within leading academic institutions, most notably at the University of Cambridge, where rowing has been part of student life since 1829. As Cambridge approaches 200 years of rowing history, the sport continues to be valued not as a distraction from academic study, but as a powerful complement to it, shaping discipline, leadership, and character alongside intellectual development.
Rowing is uniquely demanding. It requires focus, self-discipline, resilience, and an ability to work in precise coordination with others. Progress is earned through consistency and reflection, and individual effort only matters when aligned with the group. These qualities closely mirror the habits that underpin strong academic performance: sustained attention, perseverance, accountability, and long-term thinking.
In this sense, rowing is not positioned as an extracurricular addition, but as a structured environment that reinforces academic character, supporting students as they learn how to manage challenge, regulate effort, and grow with purpose.
Yesterday at Dehong, the spirit of rowing and holistic education became topics transcending nationality, age, and identity, uniting the entire community.
The grand unveiling ceremony of the Beijing Dehong Water Sports Centre and Sino-British Cultural Celebration sparked profound discussions across the Dehong community. This collective reflection and resonance will undoubtedly crystallize into enduring strength on the students' growth journey.
Let’s revisit this community celebration that blended academics, sports, and culture, capturing its invaluable highlights and deeper educational significance.
Sharing from the Champion: Paddle with Passion, Be the Champion of Your Own Life
The appearance of Ms. Zhao Xiaoli, China’s renowned world champion in women’s canoeing, infused the occasion with profound spiritual inspiration.
As a seasoned athlete with numerous World Cup and World Championship titles to her name, she drew upon her own athletic journey to share insights centered around the theme, “Everyone needs a champion, and everyone can become their own champion.” Her words offered students present a profound perspective on growth that transcends mere competition.
“Rowing is a sport that does not focus on individual glory but demands immense willpower and rigorous training. It is also an extraordinarily beautiful sport—
The beauty of teamwork lies in the seamless synchronization of eight individuals in a single boat, moving as one, embodying the true essence of mutual trust and collaboration.
The beauty of nature is found in the serenity of gliding across the water, accompanied by sunlight and rippling waves, a joyful communion with the natural world.
The beauty of strength and grace is reflected in the balance between power and technique, showcasing a calm mastery in the dialogue with flowing water.”
Hosted by Cambridge University alumnus Tony and Dehong Beijing Year 11 student Rachel, the forum brought together several distinguished guests. They engaged in a vibrant discussion on "The Value and Lifelong Significance of Sports for Children," offering both professional insights and heartfelt stories, which greatly benefited the parents and students present.
The invited guests included:
Mr. Ji; Mr. Hou; Mr. Li; Mr. Richard Barnard- EiM Group Director of School Development and alumnus of Dulwich College, UK;
Dr. Pyke, Head of College at Dulwich College Beijing;
Ms. Zhao Xiaoli, renowned Chinese women's canoeing world champion;
Ms. Kong Wenli, Princeton University alumna and professional golfer;
Ms. Coco Fan, Executive Principal of Dehong Beijing.
Coach Zhao emphasized that the core of rowing spirit lies not in winning or losing, but in resilience against setbacks, the wisdom to make calm decisions, and the deep integration of inner fortitude with teamwork.
At the scene, a student took the initiative to ask how one could persist in such a demanding sport for decades.
Coach Zhao's answer was “passionateness"
She candidly shared that it was this pure passion for the sport that gave her the drive to endure monotonous training, stay true to her heart during low points, and served as her greatest source of strength to combat exhaustion and push beyond her limits.
Roundtable Dialogue：Sports Empowerment Illuminates the Path of Growth
The inspiring echoes of the champions' sharing lingered as a substantive roundtable forum commenced.
The guests shared profound insights, offering deep inspiration through their memorable quotes:
The core value of education is to teach childrenhow to win and lose with grace.
Team sports not only foster collaboration butalso hone the ability to observe, anticipate, and adapt skills that quietlytranslate into academic and daily life.
Avoid viewing sports through a utilitarian lens.The pure growth born of genuine passion is the best foundation forresilience.
Every instance of perseverance and challenge isa process of inner strengthening.
An exceptional school community is builtcollectively, fostering a 'culture of excellence' and providing a platform forevery child to believe that, as a unique individual, they can strive towardtheir ideals.
This cross-disciplinary dialogue allowed students to genuinely appreciate the holistic benefits of sports on physical health, mindset, and social skills, while helping parents better understand the educational philosophy behind Dehong's commitment to creating such platforms.
Unveiling a New Chapter: Building a New Platform for Growth with Rowing
Following the forum, the most anticipated moment arrived—the official unveiling of the "Dehong Water Sports Centre Rowing Club"!
The venue erupted with applause and cheers, marking a new chapter in sports-empowered growth for the Dehong community.
Adding to the excitement, the Chief Coach and the President of the Cambridge University Boat Club specially recorded congratulatory videos for the celebration.
Chief Coach Rob Baker emphasized the values of discipline, patience, and trust in the process of students' academic and personal development.
Club President Seb Benzecry, a Cambridge University PhD graduate and three-time winner of The Boat Race, extended his congratulations. He highlighted that excellence stems from long-term commitment, teamwork, and shared rhythm.
Their messages were not merely blessings but also a transfer of values applicable to academics, leadership, and life.
Subsequently, the first Dehong Rowing Team show up made a dazzling appearance, becoming the highlight of the event.
Beyond the excitement, a vibrant Chinese & British cultural fair and outstanding performances by students infused the celebration with warmth and energy.
Conclusion: One celebration, a journey of growth; one gathering, a vision for the future.
Although the launch of the Water Sports Centre and the Chinese & British Cultural Fair has concluded, the seeds of the rowing spirit and the holistic education have taken root in the hearts of the children.
Moving forward, Dehong will continue to connect with global premium resources, providing children with more diverse platforms and opportunities for growth. All faculty and staff remain dedicated to their educational mission, working alongside the entire community to nurture a "culture of excellence" and thoughtfully safeguard the growth and dreams of every child.
