Taiwan’s elite firefighter-athletes continue to make global headlines after an exceptional showing at the 2025 World Police & Fire Games (WPFG) in Birmingham, Alabama. On the fifth day of the biennial competition, Taiwan secured four gold, one silver, and two bronze medals, bringing its total medal count to 39, and placing the country in sixth place globally—a remarkable feat behind international giants like the United States, Brazil, India, Canada, and Spain.
🥇 Taiwan’s Medal Surge: Day 5 Highlights
1. Swimming Gold – Chen Sin-hua (陳信樺)
Taipei-based firefighter Chen Sin-hua made a dramatic return to competition after a six-year break, clinching gold in the men’s 30-34 50m breaststroke with a time of 29.81 seconds. This was Taiwan’s first medal in swimming at this year’s Games. Chen noted his nerves but expressed deep pride in representing Taiwan after such a long hiatus from competition.
2. Weightlifting Success – Lin Kuan-yi & Liao Kun-ti
- Gold: Lin Kuan-yi dominated the men’s over-35 83 kg bench press category.
- Silver: Liao Kun-ti earned a strong second-place finish in the men’s over-35 105 kg bench press, further solidifying Taiwan’s prowess in powerlifting disciplines.
3. Bronze Medals – Lee Hsin-yeh & Liu Yu-chung
- Lee Hsin-yeh took bronze in the men’s over-18 105 kg bench press.
- Liu Yu-chung earned bronze in men’s 30-34 discus, showcasing Taiwan’s athletic range beyond firefighting events.
4. Two More Golds – Ultimate Firefighter Event
Taiwan’s elite team, the “Taiwan Pioneers”, claimed two more gold medals in the Ultimate Firefighter team category, specifically in the men’s 40–49 years age group. The squad featured Chang Wen-tsung, Cian Jheng-ruei, Chang Ying-hsi, and Huang Shun-sheng.
This grueling competition included:
- Sprinting with two 20-meter hose lines and a full air tank.
- Carrying hoses while ascending a tower with weights.
- Dragging a 79-kg dummy backward over 15 meters.
This event also served as the U.S. Southeast Regional Classic Championship, adding to the prestige of the win.
🇹🇼 National Pride & International Recognition
The team’s head coach, Tom Lu (盧韋綱) from the Taoyuan Fire Department, emphasized the emotional significance of defeating world leaders like the Czech Republic in the firefighter competition.
“This is more than a medal. It’s about proving that Taiwan can compete with the best,” said Lu.
Taiwanese firefighter Chiang Yu-ting (江語庭) added that the experience tested not only physical strength but adaptability. Competing with unfamiliar equipment forced the team to adjust quickly, turning setbacks into strategy—a mindset that led them to victory.
💡 Analysis: Why Taiwan’s Success Matters
Taiwan’s impressive showing at the WPFG isn’t just about athletic achievement—it reflects strategic investment in physical training and international engagement. Taiwan has used platforms like WPFG to:
- Increase international visibility.
- Build national unity and pride.
- Foster goodwill among emergency service professionals globally.
The medal count is also a morale booster for Taiwan’s fire service and rescue personnel, who often face extreme pressure and high-risk scenarios.
❓ FAQs
What are the World Police & Fire Games (WPFG)?
The WPFG is a biennial international sporting event where police officers, firefighters, and first responders from around the world compete in a range of athletic and professional skill-based events.
How many medals has Taiwan won so far at the 2025 WPFG?
Taiwan has won 39 medals including gold, silver, and bronze as of Day 5.
Which events did Taiwan win gold medals in on Day 5?
Golds were won in the 50m breaststroke, 83kg bench press, and two golds in the Ultimate Firefighter team category.
What is the significance of Taiwan’s success at the WPFG?
It boosts Taiwan’s international visibility, strengthens the morale of its emergency service sectors, and demonstrates excellence in physical and tactical preparedness.
Is this the best Taiwan has ever performed in WPFG history?
While not officially confirmed as a record, the scale and diversity of medals suggest 2025 may mark Taiwan’s best performance yet at the WPFG.
