Taiwanese completes ultramarathon in African desert

台灣選手完成非洲沙漠超級馬拉松

60-year-old from Hsinchu completes 250-kilometer race in Namibia


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A 60-year-old volunteer firefighter from Hsinchu County, Gao Yu-jin (高玉金), completed the 7-day, 250-kilometer Namib Race (Namibia) on Saturday (May 4).

The race is part of the 4 Deserts Ultramarathon Series, which includes some of the most inhospitable areas of the planet, including Gobi March (Mongolia), Atacama Crossing (Chile), and The Last Desert (Antarctica). Only 102 people have completed the Namib Race, one of the hottest races in the oldest desert in the world.

Gao expressed on Facebook his delight after completing the race in 74th place. “It has been a long time since I have been proud of myself,” he said, per CNA.

Carrying a heavy load, Gao admitted feeling mixed emotions during the race, such as "resentment, helplessness, and pain." At his lowest points, he often thought about giving up but stayed.

Gao thanked his wife and family for helping him live out his dreams. He said completing the race led him to believe every person has infinite potential.

Gao is a senior executive at an IT company. He is also a volunteer firefighter in Hsinchu County. Many commented that Gao’s accomplishment has brought glory to Hsinchu.