NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Organizers of the World Masters Games 2025 Taipei & New Taipei City (2025雙北世壯運) announced on Wednesday (March 5) that 25,000 athletes have registered, surpassing the number of participants in the 2017 Summer Universiade (台北世界大學運動會) and the 2009 World Games (高雄世運會). The New Taipei City Sports Department (新北市府體育局) reported this milestone, highlighting the event's growing popularity and international appeal.
Notable participants include baseball coach Kao Kuo-hui (高國輝), basketball player Chen Hsin-an (陳信安), and entertainers Sunny Wang (王陽明), Hsiao Huang-chi (蕭煌奇), and Chia Yeong-chieh (賈永婕). The games will also feature centenarian athletes, such as Lin You-mao (林友茂), who calls himself "Old Rascal" (老頑童), competing in badminton, and a 105-year-old Thai competitor in track and field events like the 100-meter dash, shot put, discus, and javelin.
New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) emphasized the event's role in promoting national sports and showcasing Taiwan's charm. He assured the public of the safety and quality control measures in place, including venue security, food safety, emergency medical services, and tourism experiences. The Department of Education (教育局) and the Department of Social Welfare (社會局) have recruited and trained 9,493 volunteers, including those proficient in English, Japanese, Korean, and Thai, to welcome international athletes.
From May 17 to 30, spectators can collect limited "New Taipei Coins" (新北幣) each day, redeemable at local markets, night markets, cultural venues, and convenience stores. This initiative aims to enhance the cultural and economic impact of the games on the region.
