2008 Leisure Taiwan: Safety first before sporting

July 21, 2008

Since current issues involving oil price increases, energy-saving and carbon-decreasing have gained public attention, the bicycle has become a popular product as everyone wants to own one. But some industrial businesspeople have pointed out a critical issue on bicycle riding, that is, personal security (safety).

Jack Cheng-kuan Hsieh, Chairman of KHS Mountain Bike Corp., discussed some of the dangers of cycling with Wikinews Journalist Rico Shen as part of a press conference.

All the riders wanted to circle around the Taiwan or the other places but [they] often ignored several critical issues especially pre-tour preparations. Damages or accidents often caused with lack of preparations. Therefore, choosing a proper [cycling] lane, planning well, and doing necessary preventions are considered critical and must-be-done elements when riding a bicycle. In addition, proper clothing should be adapted in different weathers, and last but not least, DO NOT RIDE WHEN IT'S BAD WEATHER!

In addition to Hsieh, Wikinews also interviewed Frank Feng-chou Kuo, Technical Chair of International Association of Ultra Runners. Following is an extract from his comments made to Wikinews Journalist Rico Shen:

Whether a sport requires endurance or not, competitors should prepare fully before competing in any event. In most cases, accidents are often caused by the lack of preparation before an event.

In general, when sporting anytime and anywhere, preparations should be made for better performance and safety, whether it involves more or less endurance or physical strength.