Battle of Brains: Peking University Triumphs at ICPC
Celebrating victory at the ICPC World Finals.
In the heart of Astana, Kazakhstan, from September 15 to 20, the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) showcased its prestigious title as the Olympics of Computer Programming. This year, a formidable team from Peking University, composed of three sophomore students, rose above a sea of over 400 competitors from 141 elite programming institutions to claim the championship.
The team, consisting of Wang Weicheng, Wang Xiangwen, and Xu Anyi, displayed remarkable skill and teamwork in this high-stakes competition. Faced with the challenge of solving twelve complex problems in just five hours, the trio stood out by creatively deploying programming languages such as C/C++, Java, and Python 3.
As each problem tested their proficiency in advanced algorithms and pushed the limits of their logical reasoning, the Peking University team completed a staggering nine problems, successfully earning one of only four coveted gold medals for the highest accuracy.
“Each problem tests different aspects, from computational geometry and data structures to dynamic programming,” shared Xu Anyi, reflecting on the rigor of the contest. “Most of these challenges were incredibly tough; indeed, one problem proved so insurmountable that no team cracked it.”
Upon securing their championship status, the team couldn’t contain their excitement as they stood before a cheering crowd, medals shining around their necks, amidst falling gold confetti. Wang Xiangwen, recalling the moment, noted, “I felt so nervous that I wasn’t sure what expression to make, so I simply held the trophy high.”
Training for Triumph
The preparation leading up to this monumental victory was nothing short of intense. The team regularly engaged in mock exams based on problems from previous contests, replicating the urgency of the official competition environment. Their rigorous training included practicing almost daily during the summer break and participating in three training camps—one hosted by Tsinghua University and another by Huawei.
“For me, frequent training never becomes tedious,” Xu added. “Writing code is like writing an essay; it lets me convey my thoughts, and solving problems brings immense joy.”
Individual training was just one piece of the puzzle. The team’s collaborative strategy involved initially solving easier problems independently and subsequently teaming up to tackle more complex challenges. Their history, having attended the same high school—Hangzhou No 2 High School of Zhejiang Province—has facilitated a strong understanding of each other’s capabilities, further enriching their teamwork.
“Knowing each other’s strengths well allows us to assign problems instantly,” noted Wang Xiangwen.
Roles and Responsibilities
Leadership was also essential to their success. Captain Wang Weicheng took charge of decision-making, prioritizing problems, and serving as the primary communicator due to his English proficiency. His skillset predominantly focused on geometry-related issues, while Wang Xiangwen excelled in writing accurate code swiftly. Xu, on the other hand, showcased versatility, addressing a range of problems as needed.
Wang Weicheng highlighted an important aspect of their triumph: “While some teams may have individual stars, the lack of regular training often means they fail to operate cohesively. Our systematic approach has played a key role in our achievements.”
Over the past four years, Peking University has emerged as a powerhouse in the ICPC, securing two championships and two runner-up positions through their robust training infrastructure.
The Future of Programming Competitions
The significance of this competition extends beyond accolades. Wang Xiangwen emphasized the need for a profound grasp of algorithms while also acknowledging his desire to expand his knowledge into broader fields such as theoretical computing, artificial intelligence, and deep learning. “The best way to apply what you learn is through research. I look forward to exploring multiple areas in the future,” he expressed.
As the realm of information technology evolves rapidly, students like Wang Xiangwen recognize the importance of adaptability and a commitment to lifelong learning. “In today’s landscape, staying updated with new advancements is crucial to making a meaningful impact in this industry,” he asserted.
Peking University’s students showcase their programming prowess.
The success of the Peking University team at the ICPC is not just a moment of glory; it symbolizes a robust ecosystem of educational excellence and innovation being nurtured within China’s academic circles. With an increasing number of Chinese university teams making substantial gains in international competitions, the future looks promising. Countries such as South Korea, Japan, and Singapore are also on a rising trajectory, indicating a dynamic and increasingly competitive global landscape in programming.
In conclusion, the victory of Peking University’s team at the ICPC is a testament to effective training, collaboration, and the enduring passion that drives its members. As they celebrate this moment, they are equally motivated by the myriad of opportunities that lie ahead in their continuous pursuit of knowledge and excellence in computer programming.
