In early November, members of the Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors (FASCA) gathered to cheer on Taiwanese runners participating in the New York City Marathon.
About 62,000 runners took part in this year's race, one of the world's major marathons. Among them were more than 60 runners from Taiwan, proudly representing their country. With support from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in New York, which provided more than 60 large Republic of China (Taiwan) flags, the area around the 23-mile mark was transformed into a sea of red, blue, and white, displaying the pride of Taiwan.
“Seeing the Republic of China flags fluttering along the route and hearing the cheers from the supporters was truly inspiring and encouraging for a runner like me,” said one Taiwanese marathon participant. “This is not only about Taiwan and Taiwanese runners. It is also about cheering for every dedicated runner in the marathon and showing support for the world,” said Chiao-Wei Lee, an Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) Associate Adviser and FASCA Princeton counselor.
FASCA members joined other spectators at a cheering station between miles 22 and 23, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. They held up and handed out Taiwanese flags to runners from Taiwan, giving them an opportunity to proudly carry their country's flag as they made their way toward the finish line. The runners responded with gratitude and excitement, with some stopping to take photos and videos of the cheering station.
Lei Huang, who traveled from Taiwan with her husband to participate in the marathon, stopped by the FASCA station. Moved by the flags and enthusiastic support, she shared her appreciation with the members and recorded a video of them and their counselors singing and cheering for Taiwan and all the runners. Lei and her husband proudly wore the flags they received from FASCA as they continued toward the finish line.
In addition to distributing flags, FASCA volunteers cheered on all runners passing the station. They used cowbells, speakers, and microphones to keep the energy high and encourage participants. Members called out phrases such as “Keep going!”, “You got this!” and “加油!” through the microphones, while upbeat music played through the speakers. Others rang cowbells to show their support. Traditionally used at long-distance sporting events such as cross-country races and marathons, cowbells help motivate runners along the course.
Lyla, a FASCA member who cheered tirelessly throughout the event, said she was deeply touched by the runners' determination, especially those who continued despite physical discomfort and exhaustion. Her encouraging words, “Never give up! Remember what you have been training for,” reminded runners and spectators alike of the dedication and perseverance behind every marathon journey.
Through their enthusiasm and support, FASCA members helped create an uplifting atmosphere for this year's New York City Marathon, with special encouragement for runners representing Taiwan. Witnessing the athletes' perseverance, determination, and resilience left a lasting impression on the volunteers. Inspired by the runners' spirit, FASCA members look forward to returning next year to support the marathon once again.
