Chinese athletes impress at World Climbing Series Chongqing 2026

The World Climbing Series Chongqing 2026 wrapped up in the southwestern municipality of Chongqing on Sept. 20, with the Chinese team claiming a total of two gold, one silver and two bronze medals.

Fan Jingyue and Zhang Shaoqin celebrate on the podium after winning gold in the women's speed relay event. [Photo courtesy of the Organizing Committee of the World Climbing Series Chongqing 2026]

Fan Jingyue and Zhang Shaoqin claimed gold in the women's speed relay event, successfully defending their championship title after winning in Guiyang one week ago. Zhang also took home a silver medal in the women's speed event, while setting a new personal best of 6.30 seconds.

Mu Yuju and Ling Yongzhi stand on the podium after winning gold in the mixed speed relay event. [Photo courtesy of the Organizing Committee of the World Climbing Series Chongqing 2026]

Meanwhile, in Saturday's mixed speed relay final, Mu Yuju and Ling Yongzhi triumphed to take gold for China. Long Jinbao and Huang Jingjie won bronze in the men's speed relay in their first World Cup partnership.

Climbers compete at the World Climbing Series Chongqing 2026 in Chongqing. [Photo courtesy of the Organizing Committee of the World Climbing Series Chongqing 2026]

The host venue of the event, Chongqing Datianwan National Fitness Square, has a long history. As China's first large-scale public stadium, Datianwan Stadium was constructed under the auspices of Marshal He Long and completed in 1956, with a capacity of more than 45,000 spectators. 

Renovated in 2022, it was reopened as a national fitness center. Built with traditional Chinese architectural features including red walls, arched windows and white marble railings, the venue sees its original architectural style carried on by an archway-inspired climbing wall built specially for the competition, creatively integrating traditional heritage and modern sports.