41 competitors in 5 Windsurfing events representing 6 countries and 2 continents kicked off the 2018 RS:X & T293 Windsurfing Asian Championships at Penghu, Chinese Taipei. The racing takes place during 7 to 11 November and is organised by the Chinese Taipei Sailing Association in cooperation with Hand On.
Penghu is a hidden gem in the windsurfing world, with crystal clear waters, steady winds, and a welcoming committee of dolphins.
The first day showed the surfers battle it out in 10-14 knots of choppy waters. After the first day of racing, the divisions are lead by:
- Cho Won Woo (KOR) – RS:X Men
- Kwan Ching Ma (HKG) – RS:X Women
- Bunyarit Sangngern (THA) – RS:X Youth
- Patchara Mangmeephol (THA) – T293 Youth Boy
- Fu Wei Kuo (TPE) – T293 Youth Girl
In speaking about the competition, Sailing Association Secretary General Yeh Hui Wen noted that “It was especially satisfying to view the excitement and joy of the competitors when they saw the perfect windsurfing conditions, with which we are blessed to enjoy in Penghu.”
The second day of racing is expected to bring stronger breezes of between 16-18 knots as well as more waves and chop which is certain to bring more challenging conditions and the Race Committee is considering to use the reaching start course.