QINGDAO, China — The 2026 World Rowing Coastal Championships opened at Golden Beach in Qingdao’s West Coast New Area, bringing together athletes from 18 countries and regions for competition on the Yellow Sea.
The opening ceremony on October 10 launched an international sporting gathering that also gives visiting athletes a chance to experience Qingdao’s beaches, food and culture.
For Australian rower Sami Blanchard, who represents Commercial Rowing Club, the trip marks both her first visit to China and her first coastal endurance World Championships.
“I’m really excited. I’ve never been to China before, so this is my first time,” she said. “Normally I race beach sprints, but I’m mixing it up this time and racing coastals.”
Blanchard began learning about Qingdao before her arrival. At a Chinese New Year celebration in Australia, she picked up a booklet introducing destinations across China, including Qingdao. She read about the city and searched online to find out more before travelling.
Once she arrived, the city’s welcoming atmosphere and food quickly made an impression.
“Everyone is so friendly. It’s really nice, and the food is great,” she said.
Blanchard began rowing around 2011 and took a break before getting into coastal rowing in 2024. For her first endurance World Championships, she is focused on enjoying the experience rather than setting ambitious expectations.
“I’m really excited just to get out there and race and have a good time,” she said.
She also plans to stay in Qingdao to watch part of the beach sprint events, extending her experience of the city’s coastal sporting scene.
Guin Batten, Chair of the World Rowing Coastal Rowing Commission, highlighted Qingdao’s maritime heritage and its experience hosting sailing events, expressing hope that rowing could build an equally strong presence in the city.
“Maybe it’s time for the rowing events to be as strong in Qingdao as the sailing events,” Batten said.
She also expressed hopes for strong performances by Chinese athletes and encouraged local residents to come to Golden Beach to enjoy the competition.
“The racing will be amazing, the music will be amazing, the atmosphere will be amazing — but only if you come!”
Editor: Yuan Ruichen
