The 2024 iQFOiL Asian Championships, iQFOiL Youth & Junior Asian Championships, and iQFOiL International Games officially began yesterday at the Dameisha International Water Sports Center in Yantian District.
Co-organized by the Chinese Yachting Association, the iQFOiL Class association, and the Yantian District Government, the weeklong event has brought together 238 athletes, coaches, and technical officials from 13 countries and regions, including China, Singapore, South Korea, India, and Thailand.
The iQFOiL Class, introduced as the new Olympic windsurfing discipline for the 2024 Paris Olympics, has replaced the RS:X Class. Featuring advanced foiling technology, the class allows athletes to achieve higher speeds and perform under a wider range of wind conditions, marking a significant step forward in windsurfing innovation.
Zhang Xiaodong, chairperson of the Chinese Yachting Association, attended the opening ceremony. Noting Shenzhen's suitability for water sports, she said, "Shenzhen's weather is particularly favorable for sailing and windsurfing, making it one of the best venues for winter training and competitions."
Zhang also emphasized the event's role in scouting talent for the national team ahead of the Los Angeles Olympics, stating, "Through events in Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Zhuhai, we aim to lay a strong foundation for the future of the national team."
Ma Yongtao, head of the Sports Division of Yantian District Culture, Media, Tourism, and Sports Bureau, highlighting factors that led to Yantian hosting such events, said, "This championship leverages Yantian's excellent marine resources. We aim to continue hosting diverse and exciting events like the Shenzhen 100 Ultramarathon and cycling races."
This is the second year the event has been held in Yantian, following a successful debut in 2023. The dynamic coastal district has established itself as a hub for major sporting events, including the World Coastal Rowing Beach Sprint Finals, the Mountain-Sea International Road Cycling Race, and the Chinese Triathlon League Finals.