#China #Sanya #Mermaid Open #Asian Cup #Atlantis Sanya

The Grand Kickoff of the 2024 China Mermaid Open and Asian Cup

From December 12th to the 13th, 2024, a remarkable event took place at Atlantis Sanya: the 2024 China Mermaid Open Grand Final and the inaugural Asian Cup. These competitions are not just mere contests but a significant leap forward for the sport of mermaid diving, aimed at fostering greater international growth and professionalism in this charming and visually stunning discipline.

A Spectacular Event

This historic gathering brings together over 70 elite athletes from various countries and regions, including Mainland China, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, and Chinese Taipei. The athletes showcased their talents at the Ambassador Lagoon, a premier aquatic facility renowned for its vibrant environment. They competed fiercely for not only the title of Annual Champion but also the prestigious honor of being the very first Asian Cup Champion.

The China Mermaid Open, launched by the Water Sports Administration Center of the General Administration of Sport of China, has achieved remarkable development over the last ten iterations. It has established a structured competition system for mermaid diving in China, transforming it into a nearby and internationally recognized water sport discipline. These competitions have not only succeeded in attracting professional athletic talent but have also mesmerized attendees with a dazzling display of creativity and artistry.

Collaborative Efforts:

The occasion was made possible through collaborative efforts among numerous esteemed organizations, including the Water Sports Administration Center of the General Administration of Sport of China, the China Water Ski, Underwater Powerboat Federation, and the Asian Underwater Federation. Additionally, the event collaborated with the Hainan Provincial Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television, and Sports, alongside the Fosun Tourism Group for organizing purposes.

With the expertise of local partners like the Sanya Municipal Bureau of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television, and Sports and Hainan Atlantis Commerce and Tourism Development Co., Ltd., the competition site, the Ambassador Lagoon, provided the perfect setting. The lagoon, with its incredible features including 13,500 tonnes of pure seawater and an 11-meter deep open-air environment, served as an extraordinary stage for this breathtaking spectacle.

A Breathtaking Experience

Spectators experienced the performances in a way never before possible, thanks to a massive 16.5-meter wide, 10-meter tall acrylic window that allows an up-close view of the underwater artistry. The elegant movements of the mermaid athletes captured the audience's imagination and ignited a passion for this burgeoning sport.

CEO of Fosun Tourism Group, Bao Jiangjun, expressed that they feel privileged to have Atlantis Sanya become the host for this renowned international event once again. By seamlessly intertwining sport and elegance, mermaid diving adds a unique flair to high-quality tourism offerings. The group is dedicated to creating memorable travel experiences for visitors, aligning with Hainan's aspirations to establish a National Sports Tourism Demonstration Zone and develop into an International Tourism Consumption Center.

Heiko Roeder, Managing Director of Atlantis Sanya, reinforced this sentiment, stating that mermaid diving is one of Atlantis's hallmark performances, known for its visual splendor. The competition draws global talent and encourages tourism, enhancing Hainan's status as a key destination for sports enthusiasts.

Looking Future-Forward

Over the past four years, Atlantis Sanya has proven to be a pivotal location for global competitions in mermaid diving. The increasing popularity of this sport signifies progress in both international recognition and branding of mermaid diving. Going forward, Atlantis Sanya is eager to collaborate more extensively with international sports organizations and event agencies to attract more high-level competitions. This strategic advancement aligns with China's national goals for sports development, promoting a healthier society and a strong sports culture.

As we celebrate the grandeur of the 2024 China Mermaid Open Grand Final and Asian Cup, it is evident that mermaid diving is on the brink of a thrilling breakthrough. With dedication and support from various stakeholders, this enchanting sport is poised to dive into a brighter future on both national and global stages.