Taipei: Taiwan will be represented by a record 10 athletes across seven sports at the upcoming Olympic Winter Games in Milan, including the country's first-ever women's bobsleigh team, the Ministry of Sports announced Wednesday. At a press event on Wednesday, the Ministry of Sports unveiled the full roster of athletes qualified for the Games, which are scheduled to begin on Feb. 6.

According to Focus Taiwan, the athletes include men's figure skater Li Yu-hsiang, women's speed skater Chen Ying-chu, men's alpine skier Troy Samuel Chang, and women's alpine skier Lee Wen-yi, the ministry said. Other members of team Taiwan include women's cross-country skier Sophia Velicer, men's cross-country skier Lee Chieh-han, skeleton athlete Peng Lin-wei, and the women's bobsleigh team composed of Lin Sin-rong, Liang Yu-chieh, and Lin Song-en, according to the ministry.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister Hung Chih-chang noted that because of the lack of winter sports resources at home, Taiwanese athletes have long relied on training and competing abroad to prepare for the Games. Hung emphasized that it is no small feat for Taiwan to have six women and four men qualify for the winter games, and he encouraged the athletes to enjoy the experience.

To ensure the team is fully supported, the 10 athletes will be backed by eight coaches and 19 staff members, including medical and equipment specialists, to meet all logistical and health needs, the ministry said.