TAICHUNG (TVBS News) — Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-Yen (盧秀燕) announced plans to distribute over 2,000 sun cakes (太陽餅) on Saturday (Nov. 23) at a live broadcast event in front of the city government plaza, encouraging residents to rally behind the Taiwan team as they face Japan in the WBSC Premier 12 semifinals in Tokyo.
The Taiwan team advanced with a 4-1 record in the Group B preliminaries. Mayor Lu said the event would allow fans to "eat sun cakes, support Taiwan," and invite everyone to gather and cheer for the team. The Taichung City Government aims to meet fans' expectations by hosting live broadcasts on Saturday and Sunday on a 1,300-inch screen, offering a vibrant atmosphere for the baseball spectacle.
Despite suggestions from city councilors to host live broadcasts in other locations, Mayor Lu emphasized the benefits of modern technology for easy access to the games. She explained the decision to centralize the event at the plaza to enhance the collective cheering effect.
This approach contrasts with Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an's (蔣萬安) playful ritual of consuming foods from opposing teams' countries, such as Shin Ramen, before the Taiwan-South Korea match. Sun cake is a famous dessert of Taichung, and the center of the Japanese national flag features a red circle representing the sun.
The live broadcast event promises a spirited gathering, offering fans a chance to unite and support the Taiwan team in their quest for baseball glory. Residents are encouraged to join the celebration and partake in this unique cultural experience.