Kelowna ICG Legacy

Team Kelowna about to enter the ceremonies

A Lifetime Dedicated to the International Children's Games

For more than two decades, Torsten Rasch of Darmstadt, Germany, was the guiding force behind the International Children's Games. During his remarkable 21 years as ICG President, he helped grow the movement into a truly global celebration of sport, friendship and cultural exchange for thousands of young athletes.

Although he has now stepped down as President and serves as Honorary President of the ICG, Torsten's passion for the Games remains as strong as ever. Even in retirement, he continues to travel to the Games, encourage host cities, and champion the values that have made the ICG so special for nearly six decades.

The 2026 Hualien Games mark Torsten's third visit to Taiwan, having also attended the memorable Games in Taipei (2002) and New Taipei City (2016). Looking back, he spoke warmly of the Taiwanese people, whose hospitality and genuine care for visiting delegations have always made the Games a memorable experience.

For Hualien, Torsten hopes the Games will once again bring together young people from around the world in the true spirit of friendship and fair play. He also hopes this successful edition will inspire more cities across Asia to embrace the International Children's Games and continue building stronger connections through sport.

Thank you, Torsten, for your extraordinary legacy of leadership and for continuing to serve as an ambassador for the International Children's Games. Your dedication and unwavering belief in the power of sport to unite young people continue to inspire the entire ICG family.

Welcome Team Kelowna to the 2026 International Children's Games!

With just 28 days to go until the Games begin, we are delighted to welcome Team Kelowna, Canada to Hualien!

Kelowna has been a proud and longstanding member of the International Children's Games family, with a rich history of participation that reflects the true spirit of friendship, sportsmanship and cultural exchange. This year, another talented team of young athletes will proudly represent their city across a range of sports.

Much of Kelowna's continued success and commitment to the ICG movement is thanks to Lance Macdonald, President of the Kelowna International Children's Games Committee, whose passion and leadership have helped inspire young athletes to experience the unique opportunities that the International Children's Games provide.

To all the athletes, coaches and officials from Kelowna, we wish you safe travels and extend a warm Hualien welcome. May your time at the Games be filled with memorable performances, lasting friendships and unforgettable experiences.

Welcome to Hualien, Team Kelowna! We look forward to seeing you at the 2026 International Children's Games!