Taiwanese Photographers Make History at International Watersports Photography Awards

Two Artists Shine, Showcasing Sporting Prowess and Environmental Awareness

Two talented photographers from Taiwan have achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the first individuals from the region to be honored at the prestigious Ocean Power Watersports Photography Awards (WPA). The winners were announced recently, highlighting the global reach and artistic merit of the competition.

One of the winning photographers, Wang Chien-yu, secured the top spot in the Best Rowing Photography category. Her captivating photograph, taken during a dragon boat race in Hungary, showcases the vibrant energy and dynamic motion of the sport. Wang, reflecting on her victory, expressed her pride in representing her home country on an international stage and the opportunity to spotlight the sport. She was particularly moved to see her country's flag displayed alongside those of other nations.

In the Best Photography for Ecology category, Wang Wei-chih was recognized for his stunning image of a diver immersed in an underwater environment. His photograph captures the beauty of undersea rock formations and coral, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of marine conservation. As a free diving coach, Wang is passionate about the preservation of the underwater ecosystem and hopes his work inspires a greater appreciation for Taiwan's natural beauty, while also calling attention to the threats posed by pollution.

The WPA, now in its fourth year, is organized by the Water Sports Plastic Free Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting sports, culture, and environmental awareness related to the ocean. This international competition celebrates outstanding watersports photography while also advocating for the protection and respect of our oceans. The latest edition saw over 500 submissions from photographers representing 27 countries, reflecting the global significance of the awards.