As the crews manned their boats this morning a watery sun rose over China's sailing capital. A cold day for the Race 7 start but the warmth of the hospitality shown by the people of Qingdao has taken the edge off the chill in the air.

    The spectacular welcome ceremonies the individual teams received upon their arrival in Qingdao was outdone by today's departure ceremony. Joining the drummers, cymbol players and lion dancers was a 20-strong brass and woodwind band to herald the skippers on to the stage. Draped in their red velvet ceremonial cloaks and tiger hats the skippers were presented with combat flags each displying the name of their team.

    Returning to their boats the crews made their final preparations before slipping and as they make their way out of the Olympic Sailing Centre, their home for the past ten days, thousnds line the breakwater waving and cheering.

    As each boat passes through the marina entrance flanked by the Olympic torch and Olympic rings the sound of drums and fireworks fill the air.

    More to follow.