In photos: Clipper Race fleet begins race to Qingdao

The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is on its way to China's Sailing City of Qingdao, with the participation of the host port's team, Qingdao, currently sitting in second place in the overall standings.

The 1,700 nautical mile race from Sanya to Qingdao, officially known as Race 8: The Sailing City Qingdao Cup is the second and final stage of the Asia-Pacific Leg 5, one of eight legs that make up the 40,000 nautical mile Clipper 2017-18 Race.

Eleven Clipper Race fleet start their voyage heading to China's Sailing Capital of Qingdao on March 3. About 200 participants representing 22 different nationalities and all walks of life take part in the race to Qingdao. [Photo by Wang Haibin/dailyqd.com]