Set sail for excitement: 2024 Shanghai Sailing Open unveils grand launch event

The press conference of the 2024 Shanghai Sailing Open was held on Friday at the Shanghai Port International Passenger Terminal, marking the official beginning of preparations for the sailing extravaganza.

The event aims to position itself as an internationally recognized event, matching the standards of renowned sailing competitions like the America's Cup and the International Sailing Grand Prix. It also joins forces with the Shanghai Marathon, known as "Shangma," and the Shanghai Rowing Open, aptly named "Shangting," to showcase the city's excellence and cement its status as a world-class sporting hub.

From 2008 to 2023, China has witnessed a remarkable surge in sailing enthusiasts, with the numbers growing from a mere few hundred to an impressive 100,000-plus. Shanghai, in particular, has experienced a surge in sailing activities, with youth training programs, public events, and branded competitions gaining popularity.

"Shanghai is leading the way in promoting a high-quality sailing lifestyle in China and driving the massification, scale, and industrialization of sailing in the country," said Liu Weidong, Vice Chairman and Secretary-General of the Chinese Yachting Association.