TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s men’s 600 kg team won gold at the World Indoor Tug of War Championships in Taipei on Saturday, defeating the Netherlands in the finals.

The national team events started Saturday at Taipei Arena after two days of club competitions, with men’s 600 kg as the opener, per CNA.

Head coach Chen Chien-wen (陳建文) said the team trained together for a year to prepare for the competition. “We could not let Taiwan down,” he said, noting that teams typically train together for about eight months before major tournaments.

Chen said the athletes underwent strict weight management ahead of the weigh-in, collectively losing more than 100 kg. After the weigh-in, the eight athletes regained about 70 kg within three days to restore strength.

Team captain Liu Kuang-yu (劉光祐) said he cut his weight from 90 kg to 74 kg during the preparation period. He said the process involved dehydration and dizziness but reflected the sacrifices teammates made for the team.

Veteran competitor Chen Chen-lung (陳圳龍), 52, said he was grateful for his family’s support during training. He also called for greater public attention to the sport, noting that resources for tug of war athletes remain limited.