The World Masters Games 2025 Taipei & New Taipei City, jointly organized by Taipei City and New Taipei City, is currently open for registration. The mascot of the event, “Strong,” was selected through an online Chinese naming campaign, attracting nearly 2,000 participants.
From the numerous names provided by the public, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-An and New Taipei Mayor Hou You-Yi jointly decided on the Chinese nickname “壯寶” (Strong). Today, the mayors of Taipei and New Taipei proudly unveiled the adorable mascot, who shared a heartwarming moment with Lin You-Mao, the world’s oldest badminton player.
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-An pointed out that a successful sports event is often accompanied by a representative mascot. For this event, jointly hosted by Taipei City and New Taipei City, the mascot “Strong” took inspiration from the Chinese character “北” (North), with blue representing trust, composure, and solidarity, while pink symbolizes passion and vitality. Together, they create an adorable character interwoven with blue and pink hues.
Mayor Chiang also noted that “Strong” is a homophone for the Chinese pronunciation of “世壯運” (World Masters Games). For its Chinese nickname “Zhuangbao,” “Zhuang” (壯) is derived from the English word “Strong,” representing strength and vitality, while “Bao” (寶), meaning baby or treasure, refers to Strong being a cherished mascot representing the World Masters Games.
He emphasized that this is a grand event where participants can compete with athletes from various countries without the need for selection. It’s an opportunity to make friends while competing and fulfill dreams on the international stage. Athletes from around the world are expected to stay in Taiwan for 15 days, which is anticipated to generate significant tourism benefits for Taiwan.
New Taipei City Mayor Hou You-Yi emphasized that this event, estimated to attract 40,000 participants, is expected to be the largest sports event in Taiwan’s history in terms of participation. The mascot serves as a communication medium between the event and the public, making it easier for people to understand the messages and concepts conveyed by the World Masters Games.
As Taipei and New Taipei collaborate closely together, the mascot is inspired by the concept of “北” (North), conveying the event’s idea of “unlimited sports, life.” The World Masters Games 2025 Taipei & New Taipei City extends a warm invitation to sports enthusiasts, offering them the unique opportunity to compete and engage in tourism.
This sporting extravaganza, which integrates international camaraderie, cultural immersion, and tourism, encompasses 35 sports disciplines (including 9 Paralympic categories). Participants aged 30 and above, with no upper age limit, can register individually or as part of multinational teams, fostering a spirit of global unity and sporting excellence.
At the age of 102, Mr. Lin You-Mao, who has registered for the World Masters Games, currently holds the Guinness World Record for the “Oldest Badminton Player” globally. Mr. Lin, who has a passion for sports, particularly badminton, has been playing for over 40 years.
He has won the Taipei Morning Cup Badminton Championship for 40 consecutive years and is known for his remarkable agility, even traveling abroad for badminton competitions. Mr. Lin has already registered for the badminton event at the World Masters Games and is currently preparing diligently, hoping to secure another gold medal.
The World Masters Games, scheduled to be held from May 17 to 30, 2025, is expected to attract nearly 30,000 athletes from over 110 countries, as well as 10,000 accompanying companions to Taiwan. It aims to promote sports tourism and boost the local economy. Registration is currently open, and early birds who sign up before June 17 will enjoy a generous 30% discount.
We invite everyone to join us in challenging oneself and achieving goals together! For further details, please visit the official website of the World Masters Games 2025 Taipei and New Taipei City.
