Eight Asian Olympic cyclists hit the road to demonstrate their determination to stopping TB. On March 22, 2009, two teams of eight cyclists departed from Taipei City and traveled along the east and west coasts of Taiwan.Within only 48 hours, on the World TB Day, the two teams of cyclists met at Hengchun Ancient City West Gate, Pingtung County, located off the southern tip of the island.This terminal meeting point was featured in the hit Taiwanese movie “Cape No.7”.Accompanied by Lin Li-ren, the director of the Fifth Branch of The Taiwan Centers for Diseases Control (Taiwan CDC), the cyclists participated in a video press conference with the Taipei CDC office, where, together, they pledged continued support in the fight against TB.

Inspired by thousands of participants at the March 22nd event and encouragement from the Minister of the Department of Health, Yeh Ching-chuan, the cyclists set out to spread the values of persistence and determination in stopping TB.On their way to Pingtung County, the male cyclists took a brief stop in Hua-lien, where some enthusiastic senior citizens gave the bikers packs of cookies for them to replenish energy. The four male cyclists were very touched by the outpouring of support shown by their new friends along the way. The female team met six senior citizens at a stop in Chia-yi. Upon learning that these cyclists were biking to Pingtung County to raise awareness of Taiwan CDC’s TB prevention program, some cycling seniors expressed their desire to join the Olympiads and promised to catch up with the cyclists as soon as possible.The sentiments of support and encouragement fueled the cyclists on their journey.However, the tight schedule spent every ounce of the cyclists’ strength—they were so exhausted that they did not even bother to remove their socks when they tried to catch a few hours of sleep at night.

Taiwan CDC spokesperson, Chou Jih-haw, complimented the cyclists’ courageous efforts.To reach the southern end of Taiwan in 48 hours, the cyclists averaged a speed of 45 km/h—approximately three times of the speed of an average cyclist, 15-20 km/h. The efforts of these Olympic cyclists symbolize the determination and courage required to successfully stop TB, Mr. Chou concluded.

In addition to the March 22 cycling event, this year Taiwan health authorities are also planning a series of educational activities, including publication of a TB-oriented novel written by Doctor Lian Jia-en, collecting amusing photos and soliciting articles on the internet. At the 10th anniversary of Taiwan CDC, the multi-faceted and integrated approach is designed to appeal to citizens of all ages to participate the event. Please visit http://www.cdc.gov.tw/ or call 1922 for further information.