Deputy Mayor Lin Chin-rong (林欽榮) previously said the site would include a rope climbing system, bouldering area, balance-bike and inline-skating practice areas, a parkour practice zone, and a pump track: a looping course with bumps and banked turns for balance bikes, scooters, and other small-wheeled activities.

Mayor Chen Chi-mai (陳其邁), serving as flag bearer, said before the race that the team had to win after finishing third last year. He joked that if the city team failed to take first place, everyone would have to jump into the Love River.

On Chinese social platforms, fans have joked that while other countries watch their national teams play, China watches its referee hand out cards. Another popular joke imagined Ma’s luggage for the World Cup packed not with clothes, but with red and yellow cards.

Nantzikeng Sports Center (楠仔坑運動中心) in Nanzih District (楠梓) began trial operations Sunday. During the trial period, the center is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The fitness center and swimming pool are closed for cleaning from noon to 1 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The Xinflow Surfing Park (芯浪滑板衝浪水公園), will feature what the company describes as Taiwan’s first urban surf-skate attraction using wave-simulation technology.

Chen said Guanyinshan is one of Dashu’s major natural and recreational areas. The city has budgeted about NT$30 million for environmental improvements and facility upgrades in the area, including trail maintenance, public facility repairs, improvements to nearby spaces, and stronger safety measures.

The Liberty Times reports that the route will use Liouguei’s winding mountain roads, with sharp turns and changing terrain expected to test drivers’ handling skills and reaction times. Spectators will be able to watch the cars up close and experience the sound and speed of the competition, organizers said.

Organizers highlighted that this year’s APG included several inclusive initiatives, such as gender-friendly restrooms and enhanced gender awareness training for staff. The competition categories deviated from traditional binary divisions. For instance, bodybuilding included a “non-binary physique group.”

In happier news, a post from Taiwan Travel Tips (TTT) noted that the fading rainbow colors at a crosswalk in the Pier 2 Art Center area have been restored to their original vibrancy.

The Hawks’ home opener — which they won, 7-4 over the Lions — drew a strong crowd, with infield tickets selling out. The city said more than 10,000 fans packed the stands with banners and noisemakers as the stadium filled with chants and horns.