The thrill of high-speed drifts and the roar of engines filled the air as the 2024 Drift Championship Cross-Straits kicked off its opening round on a picturesque afternoon of October 13 in Pingtan, the closest place on the mainland to the island of Taiwan. The event, held at the picturesque Pingtan Ruyi Lake International City Circuit, saw an exciting fusion of skill, speed, and adrenaline as top drivers from across the Taiwan Straits competed for the ultimate honor.

In a stunning display of talent and composure, 15-year-old prodigy Dong Shenghao from Shanghai APEX Drift Team emerged victorious in a thrilling final round. The young racer, already a rising star in the Chinese motorsports scene, proved his mettle against seasoned competitors, showcasing exceptional control and a daring spirit that left the crowd in awe.

"I achieved my goal in this race, and I'm ecstatic," Dong Shenghao exclaimed after the victory, his eyes sparkling with joy and satisfaction. "The senior drivers have also generously shared their techniques and insights with me, which I deeply appreciate." Cai Xinhong, president of the Taiwan Drift Development Association, hailed the event as a unique platform that fosters closer ties across the Taiwan Straits.

"Through the thrilling spectacle of drift racing, the Drift Championship not only showcases the remarkable skills of our drivers but also serves as a bridge for deeper understanding and collaboration between people on both sides of the Taiwan Straits," Cai remarked. "It pushes forward the integrated development of sports, tourism, and other sectors across the region."

As the first round of the 2024 Drift Championship Cross-Straits drew to a close, anticipation mounted for the upcoming second round scheduled for November 7-10.