Sun Jian (R) wins first at the Pole Art France 2017. (Xinhua/provided by China’s national pole dancing team)

Chinese dancer Sun Jian and Ke Hong won first and third, respectively, at the Pole Art France 2017 in Paris, Xinhua News Agency reported on Sep. 25. It is the first time a Chinese dancer has won the championship at this competition.

As one of the world’s premier pole dance competitions, the annual Pole Art France attracts contestants from all over the world. China sent dancers for the first time this year, and they only participated in the men’s singles competition. Sun Jian ranked fourth at the 2014 World Pole Dance Championship. Ke Hong was the champion at the 2016 World Pole Dance Championship.

Ke Hong performs at the Pole Art France 2017. (Xinhua/provided by China’s national pole dancing team)

The national team qualifying event will be held in Tianjin on Oct. 17. Sixteen dancers will compete for the chance to participate in the 2018 World Pole Dance Championship.