Zhao Xu: protecting life on the water

By Ma Yuhan, Yichang International Communication Studio

Over the past six years, 182 people have been saved from drowning by 61-year-old swimming enthusiast Zhao Xu and his rescue team members.
 

Yichang native Zhao grew up near the water, and started swimming when he was eight. By the time he turned 15, he could swim across the Yangtze River.

That same year, Zhao jumped into the Jinjiatai Reservoir to aid a friend, becoming a life saver for the first time.

Zhao has rescued many people over the decades, including two children who slipped into the water. People called him "the protector of life on the water."

In 2015, Zhao, who was then 53, joined the Wujiagang District Winter Swimming Association.

In 2017, when the Yichang Winter Swimming Association established the first Yangtze River Rescue Team, Zhao obtained the qualification of National Level 2 Public Sports Instructor for Water Rescue.

In 2018, the Yangfan Water Rescue Team was established, and he became the captain.

Team members purchased life buoys, ropes, paddle boards, and other life-saving equipment and spent their own money to raise awareness about water safety.
 

Currently, the rescue team boasts more than 50 members. They organize patrols and other volunteer activities along the Yichang River.

The summer of 2022 was a busy period, with Zhao and his team members coming to the rescue of 31 people.

"We've only rescued six people this year. In fact, our biggest wish is that we have nothing to do, because that means no one is in danger," Zhao said.

Shi Gang contributed the original Chinese story for this report.