Chinese yachts make history to enter Sydney to Hobart 中国首次参加悉尼至霍巴特帆船赛

China has entered a yacht with a full Chinese crew into the Sydney to Hobart bluewater classic for the first time. Ark323 taking part in Australia’s top yacht race would be a milestone moment for Chinese sailing. Although entries from Hong Kong had raced before, it was a first for the mainland. Ark323 joins Shuguang Haiyang as the first entries from mainland China in the 71 year history of the bluewater classic.

The 12-man crew of Ark323 have been training together since March for the annual race that leaves Sydney on Boxing Day. “They come from all points of China and have a wide range of sailing skills. They are very excited to be the first crew from mainland China to enter the race,” added in a statement issued through the race organisers.

The yacht, owned by the Noah Group, will represent Noah Sailing Club in Shanghai. “We made a decision to enter the Rolex Sydney Hobart because of the nature of the prestigious event, the challenge it presents,” said Noah Group chief Wilson Lee.

“It is also one of the ultimate platforms to showcase the Chinese team and the club’s passion to increase a Chinese presence at international yachting events.”

According to Dong Qing, skipper of the 42-foot Shuguang Haiyang, which translates as "Dawn Sailing" and originates from the Dawn Sailing club in Shenzhen, sailing in China is experiencing a "150 per cent" increase in interest a year.

For a country with a population of more than 1.35 billion that's a lot of interest. "Sailing is becoming more and more popular," Qing said through an interpreter.

When asked why he had chosen to take part in the Sydney to Hobart, he said: "It is the 71st edition and it's very popular in China. It's [also] very challenging." Qing said it had taken "at least six months to prepare" for the race.

"It's been a great challenge for both of us. There were two more (crews from mainland China) but they didn't make it [to Australia] because of time issues."

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