German Chris Kobusch will skipper the Qingdao boat during the 2017-2018 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. The race starts on August 20 in Liverpool, UK.

This will be the seventh time that Qingdao has participated in the international sailing event, which will last 11 months and stop in 14 countries and territories.

"I'm absolutely delighted to be selected as the Qingdao skipper," said Kobusch.

"The stunning red boat with the golden dragon was and is one of my favorite designs of the Clipper Race fleet. Symbolizing passion, courage, bravery and persistence in the Chinese culture, these are all values the Clipper Race Crews will need for their adventure ahead."

"To represent the event's longest standing Team Sponsor in their seventh consecutive edition of the Clipper Race is an honor, and I'm looking forward to leading the Qingdao team around the world!" he added.

32-years-old Chris Kobusch started sailing a decade ago when he left school and moved to Cape Town, South Africa, to work as a volunteer in a pre-school. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

This will be the seventh time that Qingdao has participated in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. It will return to Qingdao Port next March. [Photo/chinanews.com]

The list of the 14 Chinese sailors, including 6 female sailors, that will join Kobusch on the clipper will be released on May 20. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]