The “Rainbow Stand” at Banqiao Stadium officially opened at the end of February. New Taipei Mayor Hou You-yi led the public in viewing aerial footage of the purple track paired with red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet seating, creating an unforgettable new cityscape. Following the unveiling, the first Rainbow Relay was held, with Mayor Hou firing the starting gun. Five teams led by visually impaired runners passed the baton one by one, declaring that sports equality in New Taipei has moved from slogan to concrete action.

Hou stated that Banqiao Stadium is one of the city's key landmarks and a daily sports venue for residents, accommodating morning and evening runs, team training, and domestic and international competitions. He emphasized that to provide a better environment for sports and spectators, the Rainbow Stand integrates equality-themed colors into the stadium design, transforming the athletics field into a symbol of diversity and inclusion while conveying the concept of sports equality through public space.

The mayor noted that in 2026 New Taipei continues promoting equality initiatives. In March, the Wan Jin Shi Marathon added 500 women-only slots in the 10 km category, introduced a non-binary category, and provided pacers for visually impaired runners. From May 23 to 26, the athletics events of the National Games for the Disabled will be held at Banqiao Stadium, inviting the public to cheer for athletes who challenge their limits. Sports have no boundaries—just as everyone runs under the same rainbow—making “sports for all” visible, accessible, and participatory in both space and culture.Visually impaired runners joined the relay, demonstrating sports equality in action.（Photo／New Taipei City Government）

The Sports Bureau added that the Rainbow Relay was formed by visually impaired athletes and local running groups. Participants include Li Xiexing, Lin Yuliang, Huang Haoyu, Liu Fengming, and Jian Mingjun, who have long been involved in marathons, triathlons, and guide running training. The relay symbolizes the continuation of sports equality from the Wan Jin Shi Marathon to the National Games for the Disabled, encouraging the public to support inclusive sports through action. More information is available on the official Facebook page “New Taipei Sports Hub.”