Riding the wave: Yantian welcomes Asia's iQFOiL elite

Writer: Liu Yangyang | Editor: Zhang Zhiqing | From: Shenzhen Daily | Updated: 2024-11-22

Video and photos by Liu Xudong

The 2024 iQFOiL Asian Championships, iQFOiL Youth & Junior Asian Championships, and iQFOiL International Games were held at the Dameisha International Water Sports Center in Yantian District from Nov. 20 to 25.

The weeklong event brought together 238 athletes, coaches, and technical officials from 13 countries and regions, including China, India, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand. As an international Grade-A competition, the event awarded participant ranking points recognized by World Sailing.

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.

Located in eastern Shenzhen, Yantian District is a vibrant, charming, and innovative coastal area. Renowned for its breathtaking mountain and sea landscapes intertwined with rich historical and cultural heritage, Yantian is celebrated as “China’s most beautiful coastline.”

Windsurfers compete in races during the 2024 iQFOiL Asian Championships at the Dameisha International Water Sports Center in Yantian District.

Athletes gear up for races during the 2024 iQFOiL Asian Championships.

Windsurfers compete in races during the 2024 iQFOiL Asian Championships at the Dameisha International Water Sports Center in Yantian District.

Athletes gear up for races during the 2024 iQFOiL Asian Championships.

Technical staff gear up for races during the 2024 iQFOiL Asian Championships.

Athletes gear up for races during the 2024 iQFOiL Asian Championships.