Wu Peng, Fu Yuanhui, and Ye Shiwen, once the three top swimmers born in Zhejiang province, have made an impressive comeback.

Although their names have not been seen much in international competitions in recent years, they received a warm welcome when they appeared at the Chinese National Spring Swimming Championships in Qingdao on March 20.

The championships are a starting event for young athletes looking to become top-level swimmers. Only those who meet the standards are eligible to participate in higher-level national championships and have the opportunity to qualify for international competitions.

This year's championships have been given a new task: To serve as the first selection event for the Fukuoka World Championships and the Hangzhou Asian Games.

The three swimmers qualified for the National Championships in May, bringing them one step further to achieving their goal of participating in the Hangzhou Asian Games, which will be held in their hometown.

They might not be able to reach the heights of their peak years, but their love and dedication to swimming are worthy of respect.

Wu Peng retires from swimming 10 years ago. However, he never really left the pool, keeping busy with swimming-related promotion, training and commentary. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_77ecc8047e73]

Ye Shiwen needs to balance her college studies with swimming. She said going through the ups and downs in recent years has consolidated her love for swimming, and she will not be bound by rankings anymore. [Photo/chinanews.com]

Fu Yuanhui aims to qualify for the upcoming Asian Games in Hangzhou, as she said it is rare for athletes to have the opportunity to participate in such a major an international event in their hometown. [Photo/thepaper.cn]