China Cup Up And Away

DAVID ZHONG, CEO of the China Cup, talks about the Shenzhen regatta’s growth in size and local participation since 2007, and how it’s working to encourage newcomers not only to the regatta but to the sport itself.

- Kevin Green

Local participation in the China Cup has grown strongly from the early days until now. Why has this happened? In recent years, the number of Chinese keelboat racing teams and the number of keel boats have been growing rapidly. They need a platform for competition as well as cultural exchange, and the China Cup provides such a platform. The China Cup has one-design classes such as Beneteau First 40.7 and J/80, with boats provided by the Organising Committee. As to teams who bring their own boats, they can participate in the IRC or HKPN classes.

In addition, we provide comprehensive race and logistics services, so international teams can also join in and enjoy the racing. We have maintained a good relationship with sailing associations of various Asian countries. The first three editions of the ASAF (Asian Sailing Federation) Keelboat Cup were held during the China Cup as a one-design class. I think that’s why the China Cup is popular with sailors from Asia and around the world, including professionals.

Can you give us an overview of the various fleets and divisions, and where newcomers might fit in?

The Beneteau First 40.7 one-design class is the most competitive class in the China Cup and is raced by high-profile international teams, so this is very challenging for newcomers. However, the J/80 and FarEast 28R sport boats are easier for the new participants to operate and race.

Many other rookies will choose to race in the IRC or HKPN with their club coaches and skippers. For youth groups, there are also four different types of small boats in the China Cup Youth One Design Class, which allows them to choose the most familiar type of boat to compete in.

Is there a type of racing more suitable for new sailors and skippers?