Two-time Olympic medallist Lijia Xu is set to take on a new challenge at the inaugural Women’s International Championship in Newport, Rhode Island, this September. The former singlehanded specialist will skipper a team representing the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club at the event hosted by the New York Yacht Club.
Xu, who has won multiple world titles and Olympic medals in the ILCA 6 class, is transitioning to crewed racing aboard the IC37 keelboat. “Taking charge of communication with a group and making plans is already quite demanding,” she said. “The biggest challenge is moving from focusing on myself to looking after a team.”
The regatta runs from 12 to 19 September at Harbour Court and will feature 20 identical IC37 yachts designed by Mark Mills. The class requires close teamwork, with crews of up to 11 sailors. Despite limited time sailing together, Xu said her Olympic background provides a strong foundation. “The discipline from my Olympic campaign is something I use in everything I do,” she added.
Germany’s Lena Weißkichel will helm Team Aurora, supported by The Magenta Project. Her multinational crew has relied on virtual training to prepare. “We’ve coordinated manoeuvres and communication through remote sessions,” said team support lead Megan Bowling.
A total of 20 international teams are expected, underlining the scale and growing profile of elite women’s sailing. The championship is backed by Rolex and Helly Hansen.
