Young recruits

Dalian has had a longtime involvement with the development of youth sailing, Wang added. A prestigious local high school attached to the Dalian University of Technology made spots available for sailing recruits this year, a measure Wang described as groundbreaking.

The move is expected to enhance the appeal of sailing to young people, he said.

Students with special skills in sports such as volleyball and swimming have easier access to certain high schools. It is the first time that students with sailing expertise have been recruited in Dalian

Zhao Jun, Party secretary of the school, said that Dalian, as a coastal city, should encourage primary and secondary school students to participate in sports that reflect the city's characteristics. "Non-powered sailing is an excellent educational project that demonstrates the competitors' athletic abilities, as well as their application of comprehensive knowledge and teamwork," he said.

Chen Baocai, president of the Dalian Yachting Association, said the association will also strengthen its sailing training for young people.

"Sailing is not just a competitive sport; it is also a way of life and the pursuit of a spirit. We hope to continue attracting more people to understand and participate in this dynamic and passionate sport," he said.

Since its establishment in 2016, the association has been dedicated to promoting and popularizing sailing sports.

Dalian boasts 30 higher education institutions and a young and vibrant group of university students full of potential, Chen said.

In collaboration with Dalian University of Technology, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian Ocean University, and Dalian Naval Academy, the association jointly initiated the China Urban University Sailing Alliance, to encourage and guide college students to participate in aquatic sports.

"Dalian is a paradise for marine sports. Its seaside offers so many places that are suitable for sailing, each promising a different maritime journey," said Chen.