TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan sends 76 athletes to the Tokyo Deaflympics Nov. 15-26, with Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) presenting delegation flags Monday (Nov. 10). Tennis champion Lin Chia-wen (林家文) received special allowances and vowed to win more medals after securing one gold and two silvers in Brazil. The Ministry of Sports, MOS (運動部), confirmed athletes and 20 coaches will travel business class for optimal competition preparation.
Lin expressed nervousness about medal pressure but pledged to work hard daily for another victory at the international deaf sports competition. The Chinese Taipei delegation will compete in 11 events during the Nov. 15-26 Tokyo games, representing Taiwan's largest Deaflympics team. Athletes and coaches receive business class travel arrangements to ensure optimal rest and preparation before competition begins in Japan.
Lin was diagnosed with mild auditory nerve damage at age 2 and discovered her passion for tennis during fourth grade. She reached the top 16 in women's singles at the 2013 Sofia Deaflympics in Bulgaria during her international competition debut. Lin became Taiwan's first female tennis player to win double gold at the 2017 Samsun Deaflympics in Turkey, achieving victories in both singles and doubles. ◼