Core Points - The 2025 China International Kayak Marathon Challenge and the Grand Canal Kayak Marathon Series Finals (Yangzhou Station) commenced on November 1, featuring 312 participants from 20 countries competing in a 21-kilometer race [1][3][5] Group 1: Event Overview - The event is co-hosted by the National Sports Administration's Water Sports Management Center, the China Canoe Association, and the Grand Canal Heritage Protection Management Office, with local support from the Yangzhou Ecological Technology New City Management Committee and the Yangzhou Sports Bureau [3] - This year's competition marks its first elevation to an international event, with the race distance increased from 10 kilometers to 21 kilometers, enhancing both challenge and spectator appeal [3] Group 2: Race Details - The race starts at the center of the Grand Canal, with participants paddling 5.25 kilometers upstream along the Taiping River before returning, completing two laps for a total of 21 kilometers [5] - Safety measures include 20 rescue boats and 5 viewing points along the route, ensuring both participant safety and spectator experience [5] Group 3: Cultural Integration - The event continues the "Sports + Culture" and "Sports + Tourism" themes, showcasing Yangzhou's intangible cultural heritage and local tourism products during the competition [5] - The Yangzhou Ecological Technology New City has hosted national-level water sports events for three consecutive years, benefiting from rich ecological resources and excellent water quality, which contribute to a high-quality competition environment [5]