The World Games Begins!

Hi Wentworth Falls,

I hope you're all having a great holiday. I'm sure it's cold over there still, but here in Taiwan it's 33 degrees. Really hot!

Carlie and I arrived in Taiwan and went to the Opening Ceremony on Thursday. It was amazing! Just like the Olympic Opening Ceremony with performances in the giant stadium, followed by the athletes walking in. Because Australia starts with A, we were the second team to enter. The noise was crazy, 50 000 people cheering in the stands! We walked with the other Australian athletes from many different sports, including Flying Disc (Ultimate Frisbee), Water Skiing, Air Sports (Parachuting), Sumo Wrestling, and Orienteering.

Waiting to enter the stadium at the Opening Ceremony

All the countries lined up in the stadium.

Carlie and I with some of the other Aussies.

After all the athletes entered and some speeches were made, there was a big concert and a massive fireworks show. It was an amazing experience.

Fireworks at the Opening Ceremony

Yesterday we went to watch some Sumo Wrestling. They are very big and strong people! We also heard news that an Australian has won our first medal! A silver medal in the Women's Orienteering. In Orienteering you have to race around a course finding your way with a map and compass. Like climbing, your have to use your brain and be amazingly fit.

Sumo Wrestling action!

Soon, we're heading out to the climbing for our first event, the speed climbing. My wife Carlie is competing so I'll be cheering her on. Go Australia!