The most exciting event we've been waiting for, the Taiwan Straits Cup, is finally here after a four-year hiatus! On 18th June, 2019, the journey commenced from Xiamen, sailing 90 nautical miles, crossing the Blackwater Channel, and is expected to arrive in Penghu on June 19!
Led by the Warhawk Team, two teams were formed – the "TaiDa Warhawk Team" and the "TaiDa Seven Seas Team." They embarked on a remarkable 400 nautical miles offshore expedition, demonstrating incredible perseverance and ultimately succeeding in completing the race, winning the prestigious title of finishing the Straits Cup!
The Straits Cup consists of a long-distance race (R1) and two island races (R2, R3). The R1 segment started on June 18 from Wuyuan Bay in Xiamen. After leaving the port, the engines were locked, and the teams had to rely solely on wind power to sail towards Penghu. During the journey, they encountered fishing nets in the deep night and were trapped in turbulent waters and strong currents under the scorching midday sun. Sailing, steering, and tacking against the wind, they crossed the historical Blackwater Channel inch by inch, replicating the challenging journey of our ancestors to Taiwan.
Warhawk 1 spent a full 22 hours at sea during the R1 segment. In the Taiwan Strait, they enjoyed the beautiful sunset, the bright moonlight, endured the darkness before dawn, and welcomed the sunrise over Penghu – a rare and unforgettable experience. Passing through Xiyu, they faced powerful ebb tide currents, constantly battling against the tide, trying various angles to navigate through, spending five hours tirelessly in the same spot without giving up. Under the intense sun, they persisted and successfully crossed the last channel of Blackwater, safely arriving at Magong Harbor. Excitingly, the TaiDa Warhawk Team, with Warhawk 1, secured the sixth position in the group's long-distance race, making all the hardships endured at sea feel worthwhile!"