On China’s suppression to the East Asian Youth Games (EAYG), Mayor Lin Chia-lung suggested that the politics interfere with sports is a violation to Olympics Spirit, and it will not be accepted by Taiwan. To guard the right to participate, City Government will make every effort to launch appeal. Yesterday (24) the Legislation Bureau has worked on the document to make appeal and is expected to submit it tomorrow.

Prior to the completion ceremony of Fengle Sculpture Park’s renovation today (25), Mayor Lin spoke of every effort will be made by City Government to claim over the cancelation of Taichung’s right to host EAYG, and that Legislation Bureau has gathered to draw up relevant document to make proposal by tomorrow. In addition, the scholars and experts suggest arbitration or litigation, which will be looked into details with the experts. Taichung will not let go off any possibilities to fight for athletes’ right to participate the Games.

Mayor Lin stressed the uniqueness of East Asian Youth Games and it has been three years since the preparation. Countless efforts and resources to make the progress on schedule; the Executive Committee of EAOC has given regular inspection on the progress of preparation including competition and venues, also it has enter the final sprint to the training for athletes. Now the abrupt cancelation of the right to host the Games violently wrecked the athletes. The indignant and regret we feel for such an action to intermeddle sports with political stands.

Lin mentioned a message from a 11th grade cyclist of Dajia High School saying that he understands how China oppressed to cause the cancellation of the Games, and that his will to continue shall never stop. He wishes that the City Government will go on fight for the right, and a chance for him to bring home with recognition from the Games.

“Showing a real mature side of his personality”, says Lin, “he never gave up, and even encouraged us to continue on the effort. We shall take every opportunity to guard the right to participate the Games; this incident shall bring Taiwan together as a backup for Taichung.”

In addition, on the media asking for comment on China’s concerns over Mayor Lin’s re-election might lead to a Games “out of control”, Mayor Lin suggested that any interference out of politic reason is against Olympic spirit. Any concerns over politics should be cast aside. Election runs but a period of time, it is impossible to predict the result of any election. Any assumption based on such words are not acceptable by our people. Regardless of the governing party, it is most important to locate better opportunities for our sports professionals to shine.

The Youth Games opens a platform for 14 -18 years olds to compete sports at an international level that focuses on Green. The communication through sports among the youth will trigger the ones among cities or nations, as well as providing a motive to surpass oneself towards sportsmanship.

On the budget to host EAYG, Mayor added that the stadium and athletes training will continue under nationals’ support to these young professionals. A United Taiwan shall face the challenge and reach a breakthrough.