With cheers and applause from the crowd, the 16th Chinese University Beach Volleyball Championship got underway on Sunday in Changjiang Li autonomous county in Hainan province.

Ninety-eight beach volleyball teams from 52 colleges and universities across the country are participating in the tournament, which will run until Thursday. Nearly 300 matches will be held.

Yin Fei, secretary-general of the beach volleyball division of the Chinese University Sports Association, said the tournament is not only an event of national interest but also a significant platform for advancing collegiate sports and promoting beach volleyball.

"I hope students will actively participate and infuse their youthful energy into the competition," he said at the opening ceremony.

Gu Kaixuan from Shandong University joined the tournament for the first time after preparing for five months.

"Given the climate differences between Shandong and Hainan, we often trained at the hottest and windiest times of day in Shandong to better adapt to the weather in Hainan," he said.

Liu Yi, an athlete from Hainan Normal University, said, "I have practiced beach volleyball for 10 years. I think it tests both skills and mindset. We will fight despite adversity like soldiers."

Referee Chen Yanzai praised Changjiang's beach venue and considerate arrangements, noting that it is intriguing to integrate local culture and customs through the tournament.

Tournament organizers hope to boost the local culture and tourism industry.

"The competition venue at Qizi Bay is known for its abundant beach resources. At the event, we also showcase the Li ethnic group's ceramics and brocades, giving university athletes insight into Changjiang's culture," said Hong Shaoming, head of the culture, radio, television, tourism and sports department of Changjiang Li autonomous county.

"We are devoted to attracting a greater influx of beach volleyball tournaments and athletes to Qizi Bay," he added.