The Women’s Softball Asia Cup 2023 which began this morning at the LNG Sports Town softball pitches, was a legacy in motion, as it was the same venue used during the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea.
Mayor of Incheon Metropolitan City, His Excellency, Yoo Jeong-bok, who was the guest of honour at the opening ceremony of the Women’s Softball Asia Cup 2023 this morning, said that it was an honour for the city to host another prestigious tournament where the Asian Games was held.
“We will continue to host other tournaments here to keep the legacy of this Asian Games venue going,” said Yoo.
“Sporting events like these also keeps the sporting interest of people of Incheon alive and make it a more sporting city promoting healthy life style.
“I also hope the Korean team do this venue proud by doing well to qualify for the World Cup despite facing tough opponents,” said Yoo who threw the first ceremonial first pitch of the tournament to officially declare the tournament open.
Korea played their opening game against Thailand and defeated them 10-0 in 4 innings (run ahead rule). They play Philippines in their next game against Philippines.
Yoo, was accompanied by Korea Baseball Softball president, Lee Chong Hoon, and
Softball Asia president, Datuk Low Beng Choo who is also the secretary-general of the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) at the opening ceremony and meeting the players of the two opening match teams – host Korea and Thailand.
Datuk Low said it was nostalgic to play the Women Softball Asia Cup on the same venue as the Asian Games in 2014.
“In fact the fencing around the diamond is them same one donated by Mizuno for the Asian Games,” said Low.
“We are indeed grateful to KBSA president Lee and the Mayor of Incheon for having made it possible for us to use this venue.
“This venue should serve as inspirational for the players to raise their game and make it an memorable outing.”
Ends.