TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) and New Taipei Mayor Hou You-yi (侯友宜) attended a corporate appreciation tea party Monday (July 21) to celebrate the success of the 2025 World Masters Games. The celebration featured participation from 60 organizations that supported the international sporting event across Taiwan's capital region. The gathering highlighted Taiwan's capital city's achievement in hosting one of the world's largest multi-sport competitions for athletes over 30 years old. This milestone event demonstrated Taiwan's capacity to organize major international sporting competitions and showcase the island's hospitality to global participants.
Chiang shared that Sergii Bubka, president of the International Masters Games Association, praised the event, calling it a new benchmark for future games worldwide. Bubka told Chiang he is so proud of Mayor Chiang during their discussions about the competition's success. Hou highlighted the many touching stories that emerged during the games, attributing the successful hosting of this world-class sports event to collective efforts. The New Taipei mayor emphasized how community collaboration and corporate support made the international competition possible for thousands of participating athletes.
Hou noted that many people regret not participating after witnessing the event, especially inspired by the sight of an 88-year-old grandmother running swiftly during competitions. The 2025 World Masters Games successfully showcased Taipei to the world stage, highlighting the city's organizational capabilities. Chiang emphasized that the event also demonstrated Taiwanese businesses' cohesion and social responsibility in supporting international competitions. The mayors acknowledged how the games created lasting impressions on spectators and participants alike, fostering greater appreciation for senior athletics and community engagement.
The event's success could lead to more international attention on Taipei, potentially paving the way for future global events in Taiwan's capital city. The city basks in the glory of this achievement while the collaborative spirit that fueled the games may inspire further community-driven initiatives across Taiwan. This milestone demonstrates Taiwan's growing reputation as a capable host for major international sporting competitions and cultural exchanges worldwide. The successful organization of the World Masters Games establishes a foundation for Taiwan to bid for additional prestigious international events. ◼