Sailors compete during the "Donghai Cup" 2025 Shengsi Islands Sailing Race in Zhoushan. [Photo/Tide News]

The "Donghai Cup" 2025 Shengsi Islands Sailing Race began in Shengsi county of Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province, on June 18, drawing 20 teams and over 100 experienced sailors from around the world. 

Set against the backdrop of the East China Sea, the race highlights the scenic coastline, and promotes marine sports and cultural tourism.

The two-day event features a J/80-class race between Sijiao Island and Huaniao Island, on what organizers describe as "the most beautiful sailing route in the East China Sea". Participants include professional sailors, university sailing clubs, and individuals from various industries. Among them is Sun Weijia, president of the Tsinghua Student Sailing Association, who is racing with Team Deji.

Sun described sailing as a sport that balances competition and relaxation, requiring both teamwork and quick thinking. For her, sailing offers mental discipline and an escape into nature.

The race is part of Shengsi's broader effort to build a global sailing destination. The local government plans to integrate sailing into a larger sports-tourism strategy, combining coastal resources with cultural heritage. 

Shengsi aims to develop marine events into long-term economic drivers while highlighting the natural beauty of this eastern island county.