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The Weihai Cup International Regatta hosted by the Royal Marina Club was by invitation only. The event held over three days invited some of the top Hobie sailors in the world to compete in their inaugural regatta. Royal Marina Club supplied 10 brand new Hobie 16's to the competitors to ensure equal racing. Current Hobie 16 World Champions Mick Butler and Susan Etherington teamed up for the first time since winning the worlds to compete in this grand regatta. The competition was always going to be strong with former Hobie 16 World Champion and current Hobie 17 World Champion Aaron Worrall teaming up with multiple Australian Hobie 16 crew Natalie Hill. Two-ttime Asian Games gold medallist, nine South East Asian Games gold medallist, Multiple Asian Hobie 16 Champion from Thailand Damrongsak Vongtim teaming up with his talented brother Kitsada Vongtim. With former Hong Kong sailor of the year Tong Shing sailing with Kit Tong. This was going to be a very tough and competitive series.

Principle Race Officer David Brookes managed to have 10 races in the three days. This included a heavy schedule for the sailors with spectacular opening and closing ceremonies that attracted hundreds of Weihai locals, media and government officials. With the racing kept close to the shoreline the Weihai people appreciated the spectacle of this close and exciting racing.

As was to be expected with this world class fleet the racing was close. Races were finished with seconds between all boats. At the end of the event the Royal Marina Club and the people of Weihai excelled themselves with their hospitality. They showed there is some great sailing in China and the Hobie Class is proud to be associated with them. For all competitors they enjoyed all aspects of the great organisation both on and off the water.Well done Weihai.

Results - click here