Participants showcase impressive precision at the "Xuhang Cup" International Slingshot Open. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
What began as a simple childhood pastime has transformed into an international sporting event. The WSA2024 "Xuhang Cup" International Slingshot Open concluded on Oct 20 at the Jiading Sports Center in Jiading district, Shanghai, attracting 420 competitors from 14 countries, including China, Italy, and Spain.
Participants showcased impressive precision as they aimed and released their slingshots, hitting targets with remarkable accuracy. The competition featured two events: the Precision Shoot and the Traditional Shoot, challenging competitors to hit targets ranging from 4 to 8 centimeters in diameter from 10 meters away.
Liu Tao, a Chinese participant, found the competition a delightful return to his childhood. "I've been competing since 2018, and every time I step onto the field, that familiar feeling comes rushing back," he said.
Jiading native Gao Yi expressed excitement about the sport's evolution. "It's thrilling to see slingshot evolve from a niche hobby to a world-class competition," she remarked.
Spanish competitor Óscar Collado Parra impressed many with his skills. "In Spain, almost every child plays with a slingshot. Competing against Chinese players, who are truly world-class, is an honor," he noted.
Marco Brunetti, chairman of the World Slingshot Association and an Italian team member, also participated. "Nine of us from Italy came through national qualifiers to compete here. We are all thrilled and aiming for great results," he stated.
The Jiading District Slingshot Sports Association has played a pivotal role in promoting the sport. Qiu Aihua, the association's president, noted that this event marks the highest level of domestic slingshot competition to date. With the 2026 Slingshot World Cup set to take place in Spain, participants were eager to hone their skills in this unique sport.
The event attracts competitors from various countries. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
The WSA2024 "Xuhang Cup" International Slingshot Open marks the highest level of domestic slingshot competition to date. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]