2025 Formula Wing Asian Championships Penghu - Day 1
by WingFoil Racing World Cup 9 Oct 03:35 PDT
2025 Formula Wing Asian Championships Penghu - Day 1 © Markus Schwendtner / IWSA Media
The 2025 Formula Wing Asian Championships kicked off in spectacular fashion today on the pristine waters off Penghu Island, with 70 elite athletes, 55 men and 15 women, from 12 nations converging for the second edition of Asia's premier wingfoiling event.
Following its successful debut in Hong Kong last year, the championship has now landed in one of Asia's most iconic windsurfing destinations.
Penghu Island, located on the western edge of Taiwan, is renowned for its rugged coastline, turquoise waters, and consistent wind conditions that make it a paradise for board sports. With a rich history in sailing and windsurfing, the island is now embracing the future with wingfoiling—a fast-growing discipline that blends innovation, athleticism, and ocean culture.
Towering above the harbor, the statue of Mazu—the sea goddess and protector of fishermen—stands as a silent sentinel over the competition.
Her presence is a powerful reminder of Penghu's deep-rooted maritime traditions and spiritual connection to the ocean. As athletes carve across the waves, they do so under the watchful gaze of a figure who has guided generations of seafarers through these very waters.
Under a steady northerly breeze reaching up to 20 knots, competitors tackled three grueling long-distance races that tested both endurance and strategy. Hong Kong sailors made a powerful statement, dominating the leaderboard in both the men's and women's divisions.
The Ministry of Sport has thrown its support behind formats like wingfoiling that resonate with the local community, offer international competitiveness for Taiwanese athletes, and showcase Penghu's natural beauty to the world. This championship is not just a sporting event—it's a celebration of the island's identity and a bold step toward positioning Penghu as a global destination for water sports tourism.
"Penghu has long been a cradle for wind-driven sports, and hosting the Formula Wing Asian Championships is a proud moment for our community," said Shuang Chuan, chairman of the China Taipei Sailing Association.
Chen Yuren, chairman of Penghu County Sailing Association added that "Wingfoiling reflects the spirit of our island — dynamic, resilient, and deeply connected to the sea. We're committed to supporting sports that empower our local athletes and showcase Penghu's natural beauty to the world."
The competition continues through Sunday, 12 October, with more high-speed action and tactical battles expected as the forecast promises ideal conditions. Fans can follow the races in real time and catch exclusive updates through the official channels of @wingfoilracing.
More information and results here.