“Experience the truly authentic taste of the Far East with a fast middle and long distance races on the lesser-explored south east coast of Taiwan.”
Challenge Taiwan is the biggest triathlon in the world and always delivers an experience to never forget. That’s why TRI247 had a better look into the race and wrote a great article about it!
“Challenge Taiwan is Asia’s largest long distance triathlon, with entries typically selling out within a week opening! And it’s not hard to see why. Renowned for its natural beauty and fascinatingly diverse cultures, the city of Taitung – which sets the backdrop for this incredibly popular race – is the perfect setting for a race-cation.
“It might be one of Taiwan’s smallest cities, situated on the south east coast. But each spring, Taitung becomes the temporary home to 8,000 triathletes taking on Challenge Taiwan’s middle and long distance triathlons – the latter the biggest in Asia.
“And it’s worth making the trip to this hidden gem of a region with its authentic local culture, delicious food, hot springs and breathtaking coastline. It really is a race in a tropical paradise.
“While the mercury may nudge 28°C / 82°F April is one of the best times of the year to visit Taitung – just don’t forget the suncream! – and thankfully, humidity is on the low side so, over the years, it’s become hugely popular.”
Location – a far-eastern promise
“A world away from all the political drama in the capital Taipei, down on the south east coast, lies the chilled, small city of Taitung surrounded by lush forest, paddy fields and stunning tropical beaches which makes it a family friendly location to explore.
“As one of the last regions in the country to be developed, Taitung County has kept its authentic Taiwanese culture, especially as it is also home to six aboriginal tribes who live in townships and add to the richly diversity of the area.
“The closest major international airport is KhaoHsiung in the south otherwise the capital Taipei in the north which has two airports, Songshan and TaoYuan. From Taipei is about a five hour drive, a three hour train ride or a short one hour internal flight to Taitung airport.
“There is plenty of accommodation in the city from the likes of the Sheraton, the official race hotel where athletes receive discounts on food and rooms, some lovely boutique hotels, budget B&Bs and midrange guest houses like Tiin Tiin Inn.
“Food-wise the place is a melting pot of eateries from local aboriginal specialities like stinky tofu and pig blood soup, which should taste better than they sound, to traditional beef noodles and even a KFC.
“Challenge Taiwan itself takes place just outside the centre in the beautiful Taitung Forest Park where you’ll find the race village, including a large triathlon expo, a bike mechanic tent, the swim course and transition area making it an easy place for spectators to watch the action.
“Note the split transition bag areas, something to bear in mind when packing your kit.”
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Why race… Challenge Taiwan
“Every year, thousands of athletes rush to get their entry in for Challenge Taiwan before it sells out. So what is it about this race that has so many athletes coming back for more?
“For regular finisher Cassandra Chou, it’s all about the community: “Challenge Taiwan welcomes athletes and families with a message of “Welcome Home!” and whether it’s our first time or our eleventh time back, that feeling of hospitality makes this race feel like a community coming together to celebrate triathlon.”
“And for Darren Cole, “Challenge Taiwan captures something of the soul of this island, a race that leaves me with memories of Taiwan’s people and its natural beauty.”
“Challenge Taiwan is a race that captures the spirit of triathlon – community, and exploring an incredible location through swimming, cycling and running. There are so many reasons to add this race to your calendar… just don’t think on it too long, entries sell out FAST – with 8,000 athletes expected to tow the start line this year.”
Full story here.
