Slingshot masters from across China compete for spots in the 2026 Slingshot World Cup. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
The Jiading Sports Center in Shanghai buzzed with excitement on June 21 as over 180 slingshot enthusiasts from across China gathered for the Shanghai City Amateur League Slingshot Competition.
This event also served as the national qualifier for the 2026 Slingshot World Cup in Spain. The top eight men and top two women will represent China.
Participants competed in two categories: Men's Precision and Women's Precision, shooting from a distance of 10 meters. The competition progressed through preliminary, initial, and final rounds, with scores determining the winners.
The finals were particularly intense, with competitors demonstrating remarkable focus and skill. The sound of projectiles cutting through the air and hitting targets filled the arena. In a thrilling climax, Wu Nan emerged victorious in the men's category, securing his win with a perfect final shot. "The last round was tense, with only a two-point gap between me and my opponent, but I managed to stay calm," Wu said.
For many, the competition was about more than winning. Zhang Mingwang, a regular participant from Jiangsu province, noted, "Each year, the experience is unique, and the skill level keeps rising. I learn a lot from competing."
Qiu Aihua, president of the Jiading District Slingshot Sports Association, hopes the event will boost the sport's popularity. Since its inception in 2018, the Jiading association has been pivotal in promoting slingshot sports through various high-level competitions, drawing more enthusiasts each year.