I recently finished my competition in QingDao, China for the 2nd annual QingDao International Marine Festival. After recently competing in Wan Ning for my first ever race in China, I spent a week exploring China. My father and I stopped in ChengDu, the 4th largest city in China. It was a beautiful city with brilliant scenery, and crazy spicy food. We then flew to the race city, QuingDao, the capital of olympic sailing, and big in other watersports. 

We met once again with our race ski, generously provided by Far East Motor Boat. We helped build the ski, and it was set up for me. Tuesday was the day of the practice moto, and qualifying moto. I felt so excited to race in China once more.  The water conditions were relatively smooth for the ocean. Through the qualifying moto, I rode hard, trying my best to earn the pole position. Luckily, I was able to get the best time out of my group, granting me 1st position into Wednesday’s race. 

There were 2 motos on Wednesday, and 1 moto on Thursday. Coming into my first race, I felt nervous and excited. This would be the first time I started from a dock. We all lined up with our engines off. The marshal raised the flag, and we fired up our engines and shot toward the first buoy. I pushed hard and managed to take holeshot. I fought hard to stay in front of the other riders, and earned 1st place for the race. My 2nd race for the day was later in the afternoon. The waves were higher than before, meaning I had to be more cautious. I started the race off strong, battling for holeshot with the 2nd place rider. I rode hard, trying to keep my 1st position. before I knew it, the race ended, my adrenaline wore off, and I was tired. Thursday was a new day, and I had one more race to finish off the week. I finished in 2nd place just a few inches behind the 1st place rider. 

I finished the weekend overall in 1st place, marking my first ever championship title overseas. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to race in China, and I hope it will not be the last time. Though I am proud of my personal achievement, I am even more excited about all of the friendships I have built on the race site.

This journey would have been impossible if it weren’t for Far East Yamaha Motors. I am so grateful for unrelenting supporters through long term relationship. Next stop is Lake Havasu, Arizona for the annual World Finals.