The 20-strong coed outfit trumped defending champion the U.S. and eight other countries and territories in the 15 years or older category. It also finished seventh in freestyle pom doubles, ninth in team cheer hip hop pom, 11th in team cheer freestyle and 12th in hip hop doubles.
Victory at the U.S.-based event came after five previous attempts contesting the honor. Taiwan won bronze from 2010 to 2012, improving to silver in 2013 and 2014.
According to sources familiar with the matter, team Taiwan was lauded for its well-timed moves, silky smooth delivery and clean execution of acrobatic feats like basket toss and tumbling.
“It is a dream come true,” four-time participant Lai Hung-ting said. “This time it felt right from the get-go. We have outdone ourselves, and I am proud of our achievement.”
Hosted by the sport’s world governing body, International Cheer Union, the championship brings together elite athletes from 103 countries and territories. Taiwan competes under its Olympic moniker Chinese Taipei. (YHC-JSM)
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