TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Organizers said more than 25,700 people registered to participate in the upcoming Summer World Masters Games in Taipei and New Taipei, about 4,000 less than the organizing cities targeted.
Director of the games’ organization office Chang Sheng-chieh (張勝傑) told CNA on Tuesday that about 19,200 sign-ups are domestic athletes, most of whom are Taipei and New Taipei residents, and about 6,500 are foreign. He said track and field and badminton events are full, while events such as hockey and rugby are at about 40% to 50% capacity.
Chang said the registrations fell short of the targeted 30,000 people. He said 27,500 is a good result compared to the approximately 28,000 participants that signed up for the event’s 2017 edition in New Zealand.
Chang noted that riders in a recent test cycling race at a Hsinchu stadium raised concerns about the venue. He said the matter is being dealt with and hoped the 200 people who signed up for the event could participate as planned.
Chang said he was excited to see the games’ oldest participant, 103-year-old Lin Yu-mao (林友茂), play doubles badminton. He said the beach volleyball event in front of the Taipei City Government offices will also be a highlight.
Chang welcomed the public to watch the events taking place throughout May. Spectators can watch for free, though some events require securing tickets in advance.
The 11th edition of the World Masters Games will feature 35 sports in 69 venues throughout north Taiwan. The games are open to registration for people of any skill level over 30 years old.
