Expressing a sense of longing with uniquely Chinese words, sailors, parents, coaches, officials and volunteers said goodbye to the ASAF Sailing Cup 2016 at Shanghai with an extra ordinary closing ceremony on the Huang Pu river cruise that was both very refreshing and extraordinary.
The closing ceremony Sunday celebrated the 4-day spectacle that was the second event of the ASAF Sailing Cup 2016 series, combined the highlights with memorable moments, both for Chinese competitors at home and sailors from the 9 other participating nations at the competition.
Speaking of the young sailors, Ms Guo Bei, Vice President, Shanghai Sports Federation stated, "It is obvious that you have enjoyed yourselves and made some new friends. Above all else it has been a pleasure to watch such camaraderie and you have demonstrated outstanding skills and sportsmanship but above all a passion for the sport of sailing. We look forward to hosting you at the next edition of the ASAF Sailing Cup in 2017 and assure you of our continued support. We hope to make Shanghai a permanent stop for the ASAF Sailing Cup in the coming years and invite sailors from across the World to this event."
"This was a memorable ASAF event in the `marvellous city,'" said Sarah Shoesmith, who had travelled all the way from Zimbabwe along with her family. Whilst, their two boys participated in the Optimist class, the family assisted the organisors, often doubling up as beach master and guiding the local volunteers on various tasks that go into making an event successful.
Following the speeches, the prize giving ceremonies began with trophies handed to the top three in each of the classes.
The next event of the ASAF Sailing Cup 2016 is scheduled at Enoshima, Japan during 13 – 16 October 2016, where the Nations Trophy will be presented to the top performing country at the ASAF Sailing Cup 2016 series.