Champion swimmer makes waves after heroic rescue

A former champion swimmer saved a drowning woman in a river in Southwest China on July 9. The news broke on Sunday as he was recognized after a video clip of the rescue went viral online.

Zeng Qiliang, 46, was swimming in the Meijiang River in Zunyi, Guizhou province, when he heard cries for help. He saw a woman struggling to stay afloat in the strong current about 20 meters away. Without hesitation, Zeng jumped into the water and rescued the woman within 30 seconds.

"The only thought in my head was saving that woman's life," Zeng told Xinhua News Agency. "I used to be a professional swimmer, and I still train regularly. So when I saw someone in danger, I knew I had to help."

He left the scene without revealing his identity. It was only after a bystander uploaded a video clip of the rescue that people began to recognize him.

Zeng was a breaststroke champion at the 13th Asian Games, which were held in Bangkok in 1998, and won gold in the 100-meter.

Zeng's heroic act impressed many people in Zunyi. One swimming enthusiast who witnessed the rescue said, "He was swimming very fast and very professional. The power and speed he showed at that critical moment is far beyond us."

Zeng's heroic act has gone viral on social media, and he has received a lot of praise and encouragement. The local government is preparing to honor him for his bravery.