The 115th Lienchiang County Quit-Smoking Badminton Tournament began on April 25 in Nangan, marked by a high-profile attempt by local leadership to compete alongside citizens. However, the event’s primary focal points—County Magistrate Wang Zhong-ming and Matsu Defense Command Commander Yin Chang-jung—were both eliminated during the group stages and failed to reach the finals.
A Return to Large-Scale Competition
Hosted at the Nangan LOHAS Gymnasium, the tournament is described as having a scale rarely seen within the county. The Lienchiang County Sports Association Badminton Committee reported that the event attracted more than 100 teams.
The competition features 11 different categories, accommodating a diverse range of participants from elementary school students to adult amateur players. In total, nearly 200 matches are scheduled to be played over the two-day event.
Leadership in the Arena
To encourage public engagement in sports, several high-ranking officials registered for the competition. County Magistrate Wang Zhong-ming teamed up with Cao Wan-lun, a staff member from the Transportation and Tourism Bureau, to enter the “Joy Group.”
Commander Yin Chang-jung took a more challenging route, pairing with colleague Zhang Zhen-tang to compete in the “Elite Group,” the tournament’s most competitive tier. Acting Secretary-General Chen Ming-jie also registered for the event.
While the officials provided a draw for spectators, they were unable to secure podium finishes. The “Elite Group” championship was won by Chen Zhi-ming and Yuan Guang-long, while the “Joy Group” title went to the pair of Qiu Ya-ping and Yang Xu-ze.
Community and Health Implications
Badminton Committee Chairman Chen Zhi-ming emphasized that the event is about more than just winning. He noted that the participation of the Magistrate and the Commander helps bridge the distance between the government and the people.
The tournament aims to promote a healthy lifestyle and全民運動 (all-out sports) across the region. By reviving a previously defunct event, the county government is signaling a renewed commitment to local athletic development.
Possible Next Steps
Following the conclusion of the adult, social, and elite categories on the first day, the tournament is likely to shift its focus toward the student group matches. This progression may further emphasize the event’s goal of encouraging healthy habits among the youth in Lienchiang County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Elite Group and Joy Group championships?
The Elite Group championship was won by Chen Zhi-ming and Yuan Guang-long, while the Joy Group championship was won by Qiu Ya-ping and Yang Xu-ze.
Which officials participated in the tournament?
County Magistrate Wang Zhong-ming, Matsu Defense Command Commander Yin Chang-jung, and Acting Secretary-General Chen Ming-jie all registered for the competition.
Where and when did the tournament take place?
The event began on April 25, 2026, and was held at the Nangan LOHAS Gymnasium in Nangan Township.
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