On the evening of November 23, Yaya, the mascot of the 6th Asian Beach Games (ABG) Sanya 2026, made a dynamic appearance at the opening ceremony of the 14th Round Hainan Regatta (RHR), energizing the crowd with its lively charm. 

The ceremony featured nearly 300 sailors across 31 competing teams from more than 10 countries, including China, the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States, and New Zealand. Among them were elite international sailors with global regatta experience as well as former champions of the RHR.

A key highlight of the evening was the fusion of Hainan cultural elements with the spirit of sailing. The Hainan Provincial Ethnic Song and Dance Troupe presented the Li ethnic men’s group dance, "Qianling Double-knife Dance", a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage performance that showcases strength and warrior spirit. Its powerful rhythms and clashing blades evoked an ancient blessing of courage for the sailors as they prepared to set sail.

During the event, Yaya made a spirited entrance, waving enthusiastically to the audience. Its playful energy and adorable presence prompted spectators to raise their phones to capture the delightful moment. At the themed after-party, Yaya stepped off the stage and joined the crowd, taking photos and interacting with audiences, bringing the atmosphere to a new peak.

According to Shan Yangyang, a representative of the RHR organizing committee, this year’s regatta will feature a series of engaging side events, enabling residents and tourists to experience the appeal of sailing up close and advancing the event’s mission of “bringing sailing into everyday life.”

“Sailing is not only one of our key sports but also one of the competition events of the ABG,” Shan noted. “The Round Hainan Regatta this year and Sanya 2026 next year form a powerful duo of international events, unlocking greater tourism and consumption potential. They enhance Hainan's visibility and influence, and help propel the integration culture and tourism of the Hainan Free Trade Port to new heights.”