Hanzhi Guan Breaks the Asian Record in the Men’s 200m Immersion

At just 22 years old, Hanzhi Guan continues to confirm his place among the world's elite in Finswimming. Representing China and the Guangxi Hosa Finswimming Team, he recently made history at the 2025 CMAS East & West Asian Finswimming Championships by breaking the Asian record in the Men's 200m IM, improving a mark he already held.

After this outstanding performance, Hanzhi looked back with us on his journey, his preparation, and his future ambitions.

Interview

CMAS: Can you briefly introduce yourself?
Hanzhi Guan: My name is Hanzhi Guan. I'm 22 years old and I'm from China. I compete for the Guangxi Hosa Finswimming Team, and I have three years of competitive experience in Finswimming now.

CMAS: Could you share your main achievements so far?
Hanzhi Guan: I would like to highlight some of my results in international competitions. Here is a brief overview:

• 2023 Finswimming World Cup Golden Final – 3rd place, Men's 100m IM
• 2023 Asian Finswimming Championship – 2nd place, Men's 400m IM / 3rd place, Men's 100m IM / 1st place, Men's 4×100m SF Relay
• 2024 CMAS Finswimming World Championship (Serbia) – 1st place, Men's 200m IM (world record during the competition) / 3rd place, Men's 100m IM
• 2024 Finswimming World Cup Golden Final (Italy) – 1st place, Men's 200m IM & 400m IM / 3rd place, Men's 100m IM
• 2025 World Games – 4th place, Men's 50m AP / 6th place, Men's 4×100m SF Relay
• 2025 CMAS East & West Asian Finswimming Championship – 1st place, Men's 100m SF, 200m SF & 200m IM (Asian record) / 2nd place, Men's 400m IM

CMAS: How did you feel when you realized you had broken the Asian record?
Hanzhi Guan: I couldn't clearly see the electronic scoreboard at that moment, so I asked my teammates about my result. When I found out that I had broken the Asian record, which I already held, I was absolutely delighted. It confirmed that all the training I had put in was worthwhile. After that, I felt calm, because I had always believed I was capable of achieving this. I will continue training hard and aim to improve this result again in the future !

CMAS: Can you tell us about your preparation for this competition?
Hanzhi Guan: The most important part was mental preparation. After an injury last year, I went through a long and difficult period and had to overcome it mentally. Consistent training helped me regain confidence, while refining my technique and speed improved my performance. The intensive training camp before the competition was extremely helpful, and adapting early to the venue, along with the positive team atmosphere, gave me a strong boost !

CMAS: What made the difference during the race?
Hanzhi Guan: Pacing and speed control over the 200m were key. Every athlete has their own approach, but managing the race correctly is crucial. A strong final sprint is also essential.

CMAS: What are your next objectives?
Hanzhi Guan: My main goal is next year's National Championship. It is a decisive competition: only a strong result there will allow me to join the national team and represent my country at international events. At the same time, I will continue to focus on improving my Apnea Finswimming, with the aim of achieving a solid result at the next World Championship.

CMAS: Is there anyone you would like to thank?
Hanzhi Guan: I would like to thank my coach, who supported me through every difficult training session, especially during my injury recovery. He constantly pushed me to improve and helped refine my techniques. I also want to thank my teammates from the Guangxi Hosa Finswimming Team for their daily support and encouragement. Finally, my family, whose unconditional support has given me the strength to continue pursuing my dreams.

Looking Ahead

With his Asian record in the Men's 200m Immersion and a steadily growing list of international achievements, Hanzhi Guan continues to demonstrate resilience, ambition, and exceptional talent. As he now sets his sights on national selection and future World Championship, he remains a key figure to watch in international Finswimming!

by Camile HEITZ

CMAS Finswimming Commission Member