Fighting for his passion

Baoding Fast Wrestling enthusiast ensures a new generation gets to learn the ropes, Zhang Yu reports.

In a dirt courtyard in Nangoutou village, Lianchi district, Baoding, Hebei province, 69-year-old Bai Hejiang perches on a wooden bench, his rough hands gesturing animatedly as he traces the history of Baoding Fast Wrestling — a version that once made this city famous.

The air smells of fresh earth and sweat, filled with the sounds of over 30 children training. Some practiced body strength with stone blocks, while others paired up to practice wrestling techniques.

"This art dates back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911)," he begins, his voice thick with pride.