Tang Qian Ting Breaks Asian Records at China Open Swimming Championships | He Shi Bei Wins Gold
SHENZHEN, China – The 2026 Chinese Swimming Open commenced on in Shenzhen, marked by a stunning performance from Chinese swimmer Tang Qian Ting, who broke the Asian record twice in the women’s 50-meter breaststroke. Hong Kong’s Siobhan Haughey also claimed gold in the women’s 100-meter freestyle.
The Chinese Swimming Open, the nation’s first international swimming competition held in an open format, is running concurrently with the National Spring Swimming Championships. The event boasts a strong field, including approximately 500 athletes representing 31 domestic teams and 17 invited competitors from nine countries and regions. Notable participants include Olympic champions like Wang Shun, Zhang Yufei, Pan Zhanle, Douglas, and Ye Shiwen.
Tang Qian Ting’s record-breaking performance began in the morning’s preliminary heats of the women’s 50-meter breaststroke, where she clocked a time of 29.49 seconds, surpassing her own previous Asian record. She then raised the bar even higher in the final, winning the gold medal with a time of 29.44 seconds, further solidifying her dominance in the event. This marks a significant achievement for the young swimmer as she prepares for the upcoming Asian Games.
“Competing on the same stage as top international athletes motivates me to perform at my best,” Tang Qian Ting stated, according to reports. “This year, with the Asian Games on the horizon, it’s a novel beginning. I hope to continue challenging my limits and pushing for new records.”
The competition in the women’s 100-meter freestyle was particularly fierce, with Siobhan Haughey of Hong Kong ultimately securing the gold medal with a time of 52.79 seconds. She narrowly defeated the Olympic champion in a thrilling race. The result underscores Haughey’s continued success and positions her as a strong contender on the international stage.
The opening day of the competition also saw strong performances from other Chinese athletes. Zhang Zhanshuo, Wan Letian, Yu Zidi, and Li Bingjie all claimed gold medals in their respective events, demonstrating the depth of talent within the Chinese national team. These victories signal a promising start for the host nation as they look to build momentum throughout the championships.
The Chinese Swimming Open serves as a crucial platform for athletes to gauge their form and prepare for major international competitions, including the Asian Games. The “double meet” format, combining the open competition with the national championships, provides a unique opportunity for athletes to compete against both domestic rivals and international stars.
The event is expected to draw significant attention from swimming fans across China and beyond, showcasing the country’s growing prominence in the sport. With a strong lineup of athletes and a series of impressive performances on the opening day, the 2026 Chinese Swimming Open is already proving to be a resounding success.
Tang Qian Ting’s exceptional form is particularly noteworthy, as she continues to break barriers and establish herself as a leading force in women’s breaststroke. Her dedication to pushing her limits and her ability to perform under pressure will undoubtedly make her a swimmer to watch in the lead-up to the Asian Games and beyond.
The competition continues in Shenzhen, with athletes vying for top honors and valuable experience. The Chinese Swimming Open promises to deliver more thrilling races and memorable moments as it unfolds over the coming days.