Guizhou athlete sets new record in freediving

Guizhou athlete Ning Jingyu sets a new Chinese record for women's CMAS CWT in the Philippines. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Ning Jingyu, from Duyun city of Guizhou province, recently set a new Chinese record for women's CWT (Constant Weight Freediving) during the 2024 CMAS World Cup depth series held in the Philippines.

Freediving requires athletes to hold their breath and dive into the water without the use of oxygen equipment. It is considered one of the most dangerous extreme sports, testing athletes' physical fitness, mental strength and diving skills.

Guizhou athlete Ning Jingyu sets a new Chinese record for women's CMAS CWT in the Philippines. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

This year's event, which ran from May 14 to 20, saw 25 athletes from 18 countries across four continents compete in a thrilling display of skill.

Ning believes freediving is about exploring and challenging her limits, which she demonstrated by reaching a depth of 101 meters.

Guizhou athlete Ning Jingyu sets a new Chinese record for women's CMAS CWT in the Philippines. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"At that moment, I didn't have much energy to be nervous or afraid because panic could disrupt my rhythm. I had to focus on maintaining my ear pressure balance and breathing rhythm to complete the challenge," Ning said.

"She has only been involved in freediving for 5 years and has achieved such results. I feel happy and proud of her success," said coach Zhu Jinyi. They arrived in the Philippines in March to start training in preparation for the competition.

Guizhou athlete Ning Jingyu sets a new Chinese record for women's CMAS CWT in the Philippines. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Ning said the current Asian record for women in CMAS CWT is 106 meters, and she plans to challenge this record next year.

Zhao Yandi contributed to this story.