Athletes train on the water ahead of the competition.

Located in the Taiwan Straits off Fujian Province, Pingtan is known for some of China's most favorable wind and water conditions for sailing and other wind-powered sports. From June 8 to 20, the island will host the 2026 Pingtan Sailing and Wind Sports Series, bringing together top athletes from across the country for nearly two weeks of competition.

According to organizers, the event includes the 12th Pingtan International Kiteboarding Competition and National Windsurfing/Kiteboarding Championships, the National Youth Windsurfing/Kiteboarding Championships, and the 2026 National Wing Foil Championships, alongside a cross-Straits kiteboarding competition.

The series features several of today's most popular wind-powered water sports, including windsurfing, kiteboarding, wing foiling and kitesurfing. More than 150 professional athletes, youth competitors and sailing enthusiasts from over 10 provinces and municipalities are expected to take part. Organizers said the event combines elite competition, talent development, public participation and cross-Straits sporting exchanges.

"After competing in Pingtan, the national team will travel directly to the United States to familiarize themselves with the Olympic venue before the Games," said Zhang Jiemin, head of event operations at Pingtan Straits Sports Industry Development Co., Ltd.

Widely regarded as one of China's premier destinations for sailing and wind sports, Pingtan's steady winds and open waters have helped it become a regular host of national-level competitions.