TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan's ultramarathon runner Chen Yen-po (Tommy, 陳彥博) won a 230-km race in Kenya on Friday (Sept. 6), finishing in 21 hours and 18 minutes.

Chen flew to Kenya in late August to prepare for the race. The event spanned five days, per CNA.

Athletes were subjected to extreme conditions, including fluctuating weather, high altitudes, and diverse terrains. Participants also faced the risk of encountering wild animals such as lions, elephants, and giraffes.

Chen experienced gastrointestinal discomfort and sleep disturbances due to anti-malaria medication. He also got lost, adding 2 kilometers to his race.

Chen was initially overtaken by athletes from the US and Russia. He caught up with them over the last 8 kilometers and won with a final sprint. 

Russia's Evgenii Ustiugov finished second with a time of 21 hours and 28 minutes. US athlete Ken Rideout secured third place at 22 hours and 47 minutes.