With warm sea breezes sweeping across the shores of the South China Sea, the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 (Sanya 2026) has come to an end.  

Over the span of nine days, more than 1,600 athletes from 45 countries and regions across Asia convened in Sanya. They competed along its golden beaches and blue waters, forging friendships and gaining valuable experience through sport.

For many participants, the Games were more than just a major sporting event; they also represented a journey full of warmth, surprises, and unforgettable memories.

Closing ceremony of Sanya 2026 held at Yasha Park on 30 April. (Photo: Li Hao / Hainan Daily)

On the field, each performance showcased determination and progress, and each medal symbolised dedication and effort.

Fourteen-year-old Hainan sailor Cheng Wenyu won gold in the women’s OP sailing event, marking a significant breakthrough on her home waters.

“This platform allowed me to compete alongside top sailors and develop alongside them. I gained a lot of insights from the competition,” she said.

Cheng Wenyu competes in the women’s OP sailing event. (Photo: Zhang Fan / Xinhua)

For China’s women’s water polo team, the Games also carried special significance.

Head coach Wang Yang said, “This was our first experience in open water. Securing our first ever gold medal for China fills us with pride. The event has broadened our experience and represents a significant milestone in the growth of women’s water polo in China.”

China defeated Kazakhstan 3–1 to win the women’s water polo title on 24 April. (Photo: Wang Chenglong / Xinhua)

Beyond the competitions, Sanya’s coastal scenery and warm hospitality also left a deep impression on athletes.

Chinese open water swimmer Zhang Ziyang praised the city, saying: “The environment in Sanya is excellent, and everyone here is very welcoming. Competing along such a beautiful coastline boosts athletes' spirits and enhances our performance. The water is extremely clear; I could even see fish while racing.”

He mentioned that he hopes to explore more of the city after the competition, including sampling local dishes like coconut chicken.

Zhang Ziyang attended the men’s 5km open water swimming medal ceremony on 26 April. (Photo: Bei He / Xinhua)

Warm interactions outside the competition venues also emerged as some of the most memorable moments of the Games.

Philippine beach volleyball players Khylem Progella and Grydelle Matibag enjoyed seeing many volunteers and staff exchanging pins with them. Their accreditation lanyards quickly filled with badges from various countries and regions, making for a unique sight at the Games.

“These small pins carry friendship and culture from across Asia,” they said. “This will be one of our most unforgettable experiences at an Asian sporting event. Everyone here has been exceptionally welcoming, and the organisation has been very professional. We will surely share these moments when we return home and tell others about China’s outstanding skill in hosting major international events.”

Volunteer poses for a photo with a member of the Kazakhstan delegation at the opening ceremony. (Photo: Zhu Weixi / Xinhua)

The city's excellent event operations, warm atmosphere, and scenic beauty also made a lasting impression on many delegations.

Ibrahim Alfraih, a representative of the Kuwait delegation, mentioned: “Following the Games, we intend to stay in Sanya for a few more days. We’ve shared photos and stories from Sanya with our families back home, and they are all looking forward to visiting.”

Members of the Pakistan delegation pose for a photo at the opening ceremony. (Photo: Zhu Weixi / Xinhua)

Thailand coach Wiwa Kuansongnan praised the host city, saying, “Sanya is a truly beautiful city. This is our team’s first visit, and we sincerely hope to come back soon. The event's standards here have been extremely high, with meticulous organisation and preparation.”

Closing ceremony of Sanya 2026 held at Yasha Park on 30 April. (Photo: Li Hao / Hainan Daily)

Although the Games are over, the friendships built, experiences acquired, and warmth shared in Sanya will leave lasting memories for athletes throughout Asia.

These moments will continue to inspire them as they pursue new dreams and aim for greater accomplishments in future competitions.