Keelung Waimushan Sea Swim Event Kicks Off with 2,200 Participants

(Central News Agency, reporter Wang Zhaoyu, Keelung, 7th) The Keelung Waimushan sea swim event was held today, attracting 2,200 swimmers from 13 counties and cities, forming 303 teams. The oldest participant was 91 years old, and the youngest was 10, marking the beginning of Keelung's summer marine tourism season.

Keelung Mayor George Hsieh attended the opening ceremony and stated, "Welcome all swimmers to Keelung to challenge yourselves and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery of Waimushan, ranked No. 1 among the 'Top 10 Charming Waters in Taiwan.' As the weather has been hot recently, please ensure you take sun protection measures, stay hydrated, and prioritize your safety."

Hsieh pointed out that the Waimushan sea swim is one of Keelung's most representative annual sports events and one of the few distinctive sea swimming competitions in Taiwan. It is also the only long-distance swim event in Taiwan where the entry and exit points are different. Participants start in the Waimushan sea area and finish at Dawulun Beach.

Furthermore, Hsieh shared Keelung's achievements in traffic safety. He said, "Last year, Keelung had the lowest number of traffic accident casualties per 100,000 people among all counties on Taiwan Island, and the second-lowest number of pedestrian traffic accidents. From January to May this year, both figures ranked first-lowest nationwide, demonstrating the city government's ongoing efforts to build a safe and livable city."

The Keelung City Government stated that Waimushan and Dawulun Beach possess unique natural landscapes. The city recently completed beach cleaning operations, aiming to ensure all participants and visitors can experience Keelung's high-quality coastal environment. (Editor: Lin Shuhui) 1150607