Chinese Olympic sailing team leader Yao Xinpei said in Qingdao on Wednesday that Chinese team was in a good form and more confident in the coming Olympic sailing regatta.

"We are more confident compared with (what we were) in the test events in 2006 and 2007. All team members are now in high spirits, looking forward to the start of the regatta," said Yao during a press conference.

Yao contributed the confidence to the team's techniques improvement after participating in nine international sailing competitions in the past two years and acquiring advanced skills taught by foreign consulting coaches.

"It helped the team familiarize the modality of international sailing events and skills of great foreign sailors. They have also gained a better understanding in the sailing culture," he said.

He added that the fantastic facilities in the Olympic sailing center and caring service in the comfortable Olympic village were also a plus for the team's preparation for the sailing regatta.

A total of 18 athletes made up China's sailing team in all nine classes with an average age of 27. Among them, Yin Jian from women's RS:X class and Xu Lijia from Laser Radial class are both medal favorites.

Yao admitted that Chinese team had no advantage in dealing with the light wind in Qingdao, since more and more foreign sailors have adjusted themselves to the condition quite well.

"It's more important for Chinese sailors to build the comprehensive ability to compete with foreign athletes, as well as maintaining a stable mentality," he added.

The 2008 Beijing Olympic sailing tournament will be held from August 9 to 21 and feature 11 events of nine classes.

(Xinhua News Agency August 6, 2008)