Haikou, Hainan Province served as the groundbreaking host for the 2026 Council of British International Schools (COBIS) Primary Games this week, marking the prestigious event’s first-ever staging in China. The international gathering brought together over 100 young athletes representing 25 diverse countries and regions for a celebration of sports and cross-cultural exchange.
The three-day competition, which commenced on March 12 at Harrow International School Haikou, featured students aged 10-11 from nations including Britain, Russia, Georgia, and Thailand. Participants competed across multiple disciplines including soccer, basketball, and various track and field events, creating a vibrant atmosphere of international camaraderie.
Event organizers highlighted the significance of hosting within the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP), which implemented island-wide special customs operations in December 2025. The FTP’s visa-free access policy for citizens from 86 countries proved instrumental in facilitating smooth entry for international athletes, coaching staff, and support personnel.
“Hosting these games represents both an honor and a profound responsibility,” stated Olly Wells, Headmaster of Harrow Haikou, who spearheaded the bid to bring COBIS to China. “We take immense pride in uniting students, educators, and institutions from across the COBIS network here in Hainan—individuals from different nations and cultural backgrounds, yet united through athletic spirit and friendship.”
Wells acknowledged the school’s international event experience and facilities as contributing factors, but emphasized the FTP policies as a decisive advantage. “Hainan provides a fantastic organizational location,” he noted. “Beyond our year-round fabulous weather, the Hainan Free Trade Port policies significantly simplify travel arrangements for numerous nationalities.”
Delegates consistently praised the efficient border processing experience. Hannah M, Head of Lower School Sport at Harrow Hong Kong, commented: “Immigration personnel were exceptionally accommodating and friendly, facilitating remarkably quick processing upon our arrival.”
Beyond the athletic competitions, the games served as a platform for meaningful cultural exchange. Harrow Haikou organized city tours for participants, featuring visits to scenic landmarks and opportunities to sample local specialties. Students also engaged in traditional cultural activities including lacquer fan painting and zodiac rubbing workshops.
“This is my first visit to China, and it’s genuinely exciting,” shared Noelle Binner, a student participant from Austria. “China possesses remarkable beauty and positive energy. Hainan radiates happiness and hospitality.” Binner particularly valued the cultural activities, noting: “I can bring these creations home! The experience proved fascinating and allowed me to appreciate the charm of Chinese culture.”
Yu Yao, Chinese Principal of Harrow Haikou, characterized the gathering as a significant advancement for international engagement within the province. “Having students from numerous countries congregate here in Haikou vividly demonstrates Hainan’s growing role in international education,” she remarked. “We remain committed to further promoting international exchange and cultivating global talent development within this region.”