NTPC-World Masters Games 2025

With less than 200 days until the grand opening of the World Masters Games 2025 Taipei & New Taipei City, preparations are in full swing. To ensure smooth progress, International Masters Games Association (IMGA) CEO Jens V. Holm and IMGA Director of Sports Samantha Hayward returned to Taiwan earlier this month for a five-day site visit, following their initial trip in May.

The delegation arrived in Taipei on the evening of November 6. The next day, they attended a comprehensive meeting with the Executive Office of the World Masters Games 2025 to discuss the overall progress of event preparations and plans for non-competition venues. They also toured the Volunteer Service Center and Customer Service Center to gain insights into their operational effectiveness. On November 8, they engaged with the Sports Administration and the Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee, exchanging valuable experiences on organizing international sports events. During their visit, Holm and Hayward also took a ride on the newly unveiled World Masters Games-themed MRT train, launched at the end of October, with the vibrant design fully showcasing the enthusiastic atmosphere surrounding the Games in Taiwan.

As part of the official itinerary, the IMGA delegation conducted on-site inspections at various venues. They visited the Hsinchu County Second Stadium and the National Taiwan University Zhubei Campus Football Field, followed by a cultural stop at the historic Hsinchu City God Temple, where they experienced the local craft of making traditional rice vermicelli. The next day, Holm and Hayward explored the Xiaoyoukeng cycling track and marveled at the geothermal vents in the area. They were particularly fascinated by the volcanic landscape, noting that such geographical features could become a unique highlight of the Games, worthy of international promotion.

The visit concluded at the New Taipei City Art Museum, the designated venue for the Games’ closing ceremony. After a detailed discussion with the ceremony team, Holm expressed satisfaction with the venue’s design and layout, emphasizing its potential to attract a broad audience. Holm further lauded the seamless collaboration between Taipei and New Taipei City, commending the dedication and teamwork of the organizing committees. He expressed optimism that their joint efforts would successfully draw more international athletes, allowing participants to showcase their passion for sports while discovering the unique charm and cultural diversity of Taipei and New Taipei City.

As the countdown continues, the World Masters Games 2025 Taipei & New Taipei City promises not only to be a global stage for athletic excellence but also a celebration of Taipei and New Taipei City’s rich heritage and vibrant spirit.