SAILING hero Sir Robin Knox-Johnston has announced a new partnership for his Clipper Round the World Race with the Chinese resort city of Sanya.

Sir Robin, who in 1969 became the first person ever to sail solo non-stop around the world, said the deal would cover the next two editions of the Clipper Race.

Sir Robin said that as well as becoming a host port for the event, which sees amateurs race 70ft yachts around the globe, the city would also back its own team.

"I am very pleased to welcome Sanya as a Host Port and Team Partner," he said.

"This is a beautiful resort in the south of China, with excellent marina facilities and a strong sailing heritage. I'm confident that our crew, partners and supporters will enjoy their time here.

"We also look forward to taking the name of Sanya around the world on their team yacht to attract even more international tourists to come here to discover everything the city has to offer."

Wu Yanjun, mayor of Sanya, added: “Sanya will have everything ready to accommodate the Clipper Race and warmly welcome its sailing ‘warriors’ and international guests from all over the world for tourism, trade and investment.”

The biennial race will visit Sanya in early 2018 as part of the next edition.