Nantou county: More than 21,700 swimmers from 38 countries participated in the 2026 Sun Moon Lake International Swimming Carnival in Nantou County on Sunday, according to organizers. The event, now in its 44th edition, featured a diverse group of participants, including 451 international swimmers and 197 competitors with disabilities.
According to Focus Taiwan, the first swimmer to complete the approximately 3-kilometer course from Chaowu Pier to Ita Thao Pier was a 43-year-old man from Spain, who registered under the Chinese name Chao Wei-shin. He finished with a time of 56 minutes and 27 seconds. Chao, participating for the first time, described the experience as pleasant and expressed his interest in returning for future events.
The statement from the Nantou County government also highlighted the achievements of swimmers with disabilities. Chang Wei-chieh of Taipei was the first swimmer with a disability to finish, showcasing his skills by swimming the butterfly stroke through the final stretch. A veteran participant, Chang urged those with disabilities to engage in physical activities and not let their conditions limit them.
In related efforts to support environmental conservation, Nantou County Magistrate Hsu Shu-hua released 10,000 topmouth culter fry into the lake at Shuishe Port. This initiative aims to promote ecological balance in the lake. Magistrate Hsu also inaugurated the swimming event by firing the starting pistol and supporting the athletes.
For the first time, participants were equipped with safety chips on their wrists and buoy boards. This new system allows for easier tracking and assistance of swimmers in need, enhancing safety measures during the event.