The 2024 iQFOiL Asian Championships and iQFOiL Youth & Junior Asian Championships, alongside the iQFOiL International Games, have begun in Shenzhen, Yantian District, China. Organized by the Chinese Yachting Association and the iQFOiL Class, the event brings together 148 competitors from across Asia, including China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and Korea, to compete in a week of intense windsurfing action.

 The championship, which runs from November 19 to 25, will crown champions in multiple categories: U23, U19, U17, U15, and Senior divisions for both Women and Men. The first race day is set for tomorrow, November 20, with the official opening ceremony scheduled for 9:30, followed by the first race at 12:30.

 “I am so happy to be here after a nine month-break, I have taken some time off school and I can’t wait to start racing”, said Elkan Oh (SGP 52). “The wind was not so strong today, it was cloudy and very wavy, but a typhoon is in the forecast, so maybe we get to go sailing with some big breeze, let’s hope so!”

 The competition format consists of an Opening Series that may feature any or all of the following disciplines: Course Racing, Sprint Slalom, and Marathon. Depending on the wind conditions and forecast, the goal is to complete races in all three of them, giving athletes a comprehensive test of their skills. The Opening Series will be divided into a Qualifying Series and a Final Series.

 The top 10 overall ranked boards from the Opening Series will advance to the Medal Series, where they will compete for the championship titles. This format ensures that only the best of the best will reach the final stage, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition, with Quarter Finals, Semi and the Finale, with competitors advancing based on a knockout format.

 The iQFOiL Class, which has been chosen as the official windsurfing equipment from the 2024 Olympics, continues to gain momentum around the world. This event is expected to further strengthen the presence of iQFOiL in Asia and contribute to the development of high-level windsurfing in the region.

 With 148 entries and a packed schedule, the week is up for thrilling races and an inspiring display of skill and endurance. For more information and daily updates, stay tuned as we cover all the action from the 2024 iQFOiL Asian Championships in Shenzhen, China.