The 2026 National Windsurfing Championships (Youth Hydrofoil Windsurfing) and the 2026 U-Series National Sailing & Windsurfing School League began at the China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Area in Qingdao, also known as SCODA, on May 16.

A total of 128 athletes from 16 professional teams across the country are competing over seven days, racing in ILCA, Optimist, and hydrofoil windsurfing classes. The event offers a high-level competitive platform for young sailors and aims to promote the sport to teenagers.

The 2026 national sailing series is held at Ruyi Lake in Qingdao SCODA, on May 16. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Competitors prepare their hydrofoil windsurfing boards for an exciting start in the SCODA in Qingdao. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Athletes demonstrate their agility in the highly competitive windsurfing events. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A sailor leans into a sharp turn during the ILCA class race, showing skill and control on the water. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]