Sailing Week: A display of hospitality
Updated: 2011-08-19 07:59
(China Daily)
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Editor's note: The 3rd Qingdao International Sailing Week takes place Aug 20 to Sept 4 in Qingdao, Shandong province. Here, some experts and government officials share their ideas on the growth of sailing in that city in recent years and development trends of the future.
Jacques Rogge, president, International Olympic Committee (IOC), since 2001
Thanks to the world-class sailing facilities it built for the Olympic Games, China's capital of sailing will now hold international regattas, leaving a strong sporting legacy for the whole community, and for China and the rest of the world.
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the city of Qingdao for its Olympic Sailing City Mayors & International Sailing Summit Forum and Qingdao International Sailing Week, and for hosting international regattas and having such programs as Promoting Sailing in Schools to popularize modern sailing for all. Furthermore, it has established the Qingdao Olympic Sailing City Development Association and has joined the World Union of Olympic Cities. Certainly, Qingdao will never be the same again.
The IOC fully supports the work that Qingdao has done to carry on the Olympic spirit and develop sailing.
Goran Petersson, president, International Sailing Federation (ISAF)
The development of the sport of sailing in China and Qingdao will have a positive influence on the sport of sailing worldwide and improve it.
Qingdao has clearly shown its interest and ability to be a venue for high-profile events; now and in the future.
The ability Qingdao has demonstrated in successfully delivering big sailing events, combined with its larger investment plan for the city, is one of the reasons race organizers find it so attractive.
It has outstanding shore facilities in place and, combining this with strong backing from its political leaders, Qingdao has created an integrated program of investment, infrastructure, tourism, and culture which gives it an edge over cities bidding for events based on their wind conditions alone.
Sailing is the spirit and legacy of Qingdao.
Xia Geng, mayor, Qingdao
As August brings in clear blue skies and a gentle sea breeze, we lift the curtain on the 3rd Qingdao International Sailing Week and welcome old and new friends from all over the world.
Three years ago, the Olympic Flame lit up this city and brought us closer to our dream of becoming the sailing capital of China.
Over the past three years, evidence of the Olympic was springing up in every corner of the city, and the sport of sailing has become part of our people's lives.
The Olympics were followed by the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race and the Volvo Ocean Race, both of which stopped over in Qingdao. We then organized Qingdao International Sailing Week to carry on the Olympic culture and increase friendships and exchanges built around sailing.
I believe the seven parts of this Sailing Week will provide even more colorful activities. You'll be impressed by the exciting scenes, unique marine culture, and the hospitality of Qingdao's people as well.
So, let's put all our heart and passion into sailing and enjoy the fun.
I sincerely wish the 3rd Qingdao International Sailing Week a great success and the happiest of times to all our friends who have joined us here.
(China Daily 08/19/2011 page24)