TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Students from Taipei First Girls High School competed in the marching band and flag team competitions at Canada’s Calgary Stampede on Saturday (July 6).
Chinese officials in Canada reportedly tried to pressure organizers to keep the teams from competing and from displaying the Taiwanese flag at the event, but these efforts were rebuffed by organizers in Calgary, per CNA. Despite China’s pressure campaign, the Taiwanese high schoolers put on impressive performances that earned them awards in both competitions.
The school’s flag team was awarded for having the best performance based on audience votes, and they placed 17 out of 100 in the official team rankings. Not to be outdone, the school's marching band was awarded the Celebrity Judge’s Award for their energetic performance in Saturday’s parade, reported LTN.
The director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Vancouver, Liu Li-hsin (劉立欣) told the team that officials from the local Chinese consulate lodged an official protest with organizers, after the team was spotted with Taiwanese flags and a banner that read “Taiwan, ROC.” Before the official parade started, Chinese officials attempted to deny the team entry to the stadium where the procession began.
Liu told CNA that she was glad to see that the Canadian organizers rejected China’s protests and allowed the girls to participate and allowed the Taiwan flag to be displayed.
The Calgary Stampede is one of Canada’s most popular annual events, featuring a rodeo, exhibition, and a festival with numerous competitions and activities. The 10-day event regularly draws over a million people to Alberta each year.
The Parents Association of Taipei First Girls High School has been sharing updates on the team’s travels and performances on social media. According to their posts, the crowd was very cheerful and enthusiastic for the team's performances, with lots of people shouting “Taiwan!” and “You’re the best!”
The joyful crowd’s response inspired the girls to keep up their spirits and do their best to be the “most beautiful diplomatic ambassadors” for Taiwan.
