Taichung Sports Games open with giant pickleball torch lighting

Taichung City's 16th All-City Sports Games ignited with vibrant energy at the Fengyuan Stadium, under the theme "Game on, let's play together." The event drew an impressive crowd of approximately 8,000 participants, showcasing a remarkable age range from 6 to 91 years old, embodying the spirit of "sports for all ages."

Mayor Lu Shiow-yen highlighted three key features of this year's games: the broad age participation, the inclusion of the emerging sport of pickleball, and Taichung's upcoming role as host for the National Indigenous Games in 2026. This marks the second time in a decade that Taichung will host this significant national event, with preparations already underway. Indigenous athletes played a prominent role in the opening ceremony, carrying the ceremonial torch and taking the oath, underscoring Taichung's identity as a "cool city" that promotes health through sports.

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This year's Taichung City All-People Sports Games has three major characteristics: first, participants range from 6 years old to 91 years old, and people of all ages can participate, with 8,000 citizens participating; second, this year, for the first time, the emerging sport of pickleball is included in the competition items; third, Taichung City will host the National Indigenous Sports Games next year.

Legislative Vice President Chiang Chi-chen encouraged friendly competition among the city's 28 districts, emphasizing the games' purpose of bringing people together. The opening ceremony was a spectacle, featuring a performance by the world champion "Albert Cheerleading Squad" and a unique torch-lighting ceremony. Mayor Lu Shiow-yen symbolically struck a giant pickleball with a paddle, initiating a relay that propelled the oversized ball to ignite the colorful ceremonial flame, accompanied by fireworks.

Adding a touch of local flavor and humor, several districts showcased creative slogans and mascots. The Shengang District presented an "Egg Man" mascot, representing local agricultural products, alongside figures of lychees and lilies. However, the intense heat quickly forced the costumed performer to seek relief, humorously dubbed "GG." The event also featured lighthearted moments, such as an announcement for participants to order lunch interrupting the mayor's interview, drawing smiles from attendees. The Shalu District ultimately won the slogan competition, with Mayor Lu Shiow-yen presenting the award.

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Last year Fengyuan District was the champion, and we hope to continue to hold on this year, and welcome the other 28 districts to challenge together.