Feature: A Taiwan racer's passion on Taklimakan Rally

URUMQI, May 27 (Xinhua) -- As the Pacific breeze gently sweeps across coastal Hualien County, Taiwan, the roaring engines of rally cars seem a world away.

But for Lin Dewei, born and raised in that tranquil setting, the off-road path has always called to him.

Now competing far from home, Lin is taking part in his fourth Taklimakan Rally--one of China's most grueling off-road endurance races through the vast Taklamakan Desert. Despite the stark contrast between his hometown and the punishing dunes of northwest China's Xinjiang, Lin feels right at home on the course.

"Every time I come back here, the rally feels so familiar. The vastness of the desert lets our cars truly fly," said Lin.

Inspired by his father, a former racer, Lin's passion for motorsports was ignited early.

At just 13, he began competing in local races, setting himself apart from his peers. While others spent weekends with friends or enjoyed school events, Lin dedicated every spare moment to the track--training relentlessly, giving up vacations and even missing graduation ceremonies.

"I knew I wanted to be a real driver from a young age," he recalled. "My childhood wasn't filled with comics or cartoons -- only time behind the wheel."

Despite the sacrifices, Lin considers himself fortunate. Unlike many parents who prioritize academics, his father fully supported his ambitions.

"My father was different -- he stood by me every step of the way," Lin said. "I'm truly grateful for that."

Lin's calm, thoughtful personality--shaped by Hualien's laid-back rhythm--proved to be a perfect match for the mental demands of racing.

In 2007, he made a bold decision. While continuing his education, he began commuting between Taiwan and the Chinese mainland to receive advanced training in places such as Shanghai and Guangdong.

Now based in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, the 33-year-old sees the mainland as instrumental to his professional development.

"While Western countries have a long history in motorsports, the Chinese mainland is catching up fast," he said. "This is a bigger stage. Our cars and drivers are now among the best in Asia."

Over more than a decade, Lin has crisscrossed China--from icy northern roads to the sandy winds of western deserts--claiming titles in events such as the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship and the China Rally Championship. His journey, he says, is driven by love.

"Taiwan is just a province of China. I wouldn't have gained so much experience if I had stayed only in Taiwan," said Lin. "I'm proud to be Chinese, driving a Chinese-made rally car across our land."

For Lin, it's more than engines and dust. A self-proclaimed foodie, he lights up when talking about Xinjiang's cuisine--from Nang pit roast lamb to hand-pulled noodles. After one race, he donned a traditional white felt hat from the Kyrgyz ethnic group to celebrate with locals.

"I fell in love with Xinjiang the first time I came here," he said. "Many of my friends back home have developed a fascination with this place after hearing my stories."

As China's rally scene grows, Lin remains one of its most enthusiastic ambassadors both on and off the track. Through daily video updates from the Taklimakan Rally, he shares behind-the-scenes moments and technical insights aimed at educating and inspiring young motorsport fans.

"I want to be a bridge for anyone who dreams of racing," he said. "The earlier you get involved, the more potential you have. My job is to make this sport more accessible."

Now, Lin sets his sights on an even greater challenge--the Dakar Rally, widely considered the world's toughest motorsport competition.

"The Taklimakan Rally is an important test. We've gained a lot of experience over the past years by staying calm under pressure. But Dakar is the goal," he said. Enditem