By MOOK Scenic Spots, compiled report
A great opportunity to see up close the 2017 Taipei Universiade athletes, Taiwan’s heroes in this international event, gathered at Taipei City Hall’s front square on the evening of August 31 to step onto the red carpet set up on Xin Ren’ai Road. Fans could seize this once-in-a-lifetime chance to cheer for Taiwan’s heroes once again, sharing in their glory and joy.
The highlights of the performance by Taiwan’s delegation at the Universiade, as the heroes were celebrated during the parade on August 31.
Taiwan’s delegation at the Universiade won an impressive 26 golds, 34 silvers, and 30 bronzes at our home games, ranking third in total medal count and achieving Taiwan’s best-ever performance in Universiade history. The successful conclusion of the event was not only thanks to the hard work of the athletes but also to the cheering crowds outside — the unsung heroes who made the Games possible.
Kuo Hsing-chun broke the world record in the clean and jerk to take the gold in the women’s 58kg weightlifting category. (Photo / Taipei City Government)
Immediately following the parade, a grand celebration was held at Taipei City Hall Plaza, the endpoint of the parade. At the event, gold medalist Kuo Hsing-chun, who broke the world record and claimed the top spot in the women’s 58kg category, and javelin thrower Cheng Chao-tsung, who set a new Asian record, were invited to speak on behalf of the athletes. Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je also appeared to express his deepest gratitude to the Universiade athletes, the selflessly dedicated volunteers, the staff, and the cheering crowds. Then, led by Sports Administration Director-General Lin Te-fu, 12 young athletes presented the “Taiwan Heroes” flag to these shining stars, expressing hopes for Taiwan to “set off anew” and continue shining on the global sports stage.
Cheng Chao-tsung set new Asian, national, and tournament records, sending the crowd into a frenzy of cheers. (Photo / Taipei City Government)
The 2017 Taipei Universiade “Taiwan Heroes Parade” celebration saw the parade convoy arrive at Taipei City Hall’s front square at 5:30 PM on August 31. Organizers began a series of warm-up activities starting at 4:30 PM, featuring performances by the Shih Hsin University Competitive Cheerleading Team and Kainan University Marching Band and Color Guard, along with screenings of Universiade videos reviewing the event’s exciting moments. Limited-edition mini flags were also distributed on-site.