During the Shanghai International Boat Show, the organisers of the Guangzhou Nansha International Sailing Regatta announced the 2017 event (28–30 July) and launched the countdown to the Volvo Ocean Race 2017/18 Guangzhou stopover. The regatta will feature professional and amateur sailing races, on‑land and on‑water boat shows, a yacht carnival and training courses. Officials emphasised Guangzhou’s growing role in international sailing, the upcoming Volvo Ocean Race stopover (31 Jan – 5 Feb 2018) and cooperation with Chinese sailing associations to promote youth sailing and marine sports.