Secretariat, Taipei City Government

The first stage of the 2023 Tour de Taiwan kicked off at City Hall Plaza in the morning of March 12. 

Dutch rider Roy Eefting-Bloem of the German team Maloja Pushbikers claimed first place, as well as both the yellow and green jerseys, at the competition. The blue jersey symbolizing the Asia region champion went to Thai cyclist Thanakhan Chaiyasombat.  

During his address, Mayor Chiang Wan-an noted that the Taipei Stage is the first stop of this year’s Tour de Taiwan. The annual competition was cancelled in 2021 due to the pandemic, and last year’s race was postponed to October for the same reason. Thanks to the subsiding of COVID-19, a total of 184 athletes and 22 teams have signed up for the competition in Taiwan to earn points for Paris 2024 qualifications. 

The route this year takes the cyclists around Taipei City, bringing them near major landmarks such as Taipei 101, Taipei City Council, Jiancheng Circle, former air force headquarters, Jinfu Gate, and NTU Hospital. Through the European sports channels, viewers abroad will be able to enjoy the beauty of Taipei, which helps boost the city’s international profile. 

There is also a cycling-related carnival at City Hall Plaza during the event, attracting kids and parents to learn more about the sports activities. Professional riders also perform various BMX stunts such as 360 turns to win rounds of applause from the crowds, while young kids enjoy fun activities such as trying out pushbikes.