On the afternoon of February 4, a dramatic rescue unfolded along the banks of the Han River in Xiantao City, Hubei Province. A middle-aged man accidentally fell into the river and was swept away by the turbulent waters, facing a life-threatening situation. In a heroic moment, three men came to his rescue, one of whom rode a white horse into the river to save him.

Around 1:50 p.m., the man was walking by the river when he slipped and fell into the water. The strong current quickly carried him away, while his distraught relatives frantically called for help from the shore. However, the treacherous waters deterred bystanders from jumping in.

At that moment, Su Shaogao and Yilibai, who were nearby with horses, heard the cries for help. Su immediately intervened, pulling back the man's family members to prevent further accidents. He then shouted to Yilibai to assist in the rescue.

Yilibai, a co-owner of the Han River Wild Riding Club and an experienced horse rider, did not hesitate. Riding his well-trained white horse, "Bailong" (White Dragon), he charged into the river. The 7-year-old horse, trained to swim and respond obediently to commands, braved the icy waters alongside his rider.

Navigating through 40 to 50 meters of turbulent water, Yilibai reached the distressed man. He grabbed the horse's reins with one hand and firmly held onto the man with the other to prevent him from being swept away. Meanwhile, Liu Hangzhou, a member of the Xiantao Swimming Association and a former soldier, swam to assist from behind, supporting the man and helping Yilibai bring him to safety.

Thanks to their joint efforts, the man was rescued without serious injuries and was taken to the hospital for a check-up by his family. Bailong, although initially showing signs of illness due to the cold water, is now recovering after veterinary care.

Yilibai, originally from Xinjiang, co-owns the riding club with Su Shaogao, organising regular horseback activities and frequently engaging in acts of kindness. Liu Hangzhou, a winter swimming enthusiast and retired soldier, didn't hesitate to dive into the icy waters upon hearing the cries for help.

Authorities in Xiantao City have initiated the process to formally recognise and commend Su Shaogao, Yilibai, and Liu Hangzhou for their courageous actions.