800 compete in Ironman Penghu race

800人參加澎湖鐵人三項賽

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Approximately 800 triathletes from 50 countries competed Sunday in the Ironman Penghu race, taking on the grueling 226-km endurance event.

Participants also vied for 40 qualifying spots for the Ironman World Championship, set to take place in Hawaii in October, per CNA.

Penghu County Government Secretary-General Lin Wen-tsao (林文藻), KMT Councilor Hsu Kuo-cheng (許國政), and event organizer Lin Tse-hao (林澤浩) were present before the athletes entered the water to begin the race.

Lin said he hoped participants and their families would enjoy Penghu's coastal scenery, adding that the event brings significant benefits to the county's economy and tourism sector. He noted the competition continues to grow and expressed anticipation for its 10th anniversary next year.

He said athletes came from the US, Japan, Singapore, and China, with Japan sending the largest international contingent at around 90 competitors.

The race consists of a 3.8-km ocean swim, a 180-km bike ride, and a 42.2-km run, totaling 226 kilometers. Athletes have 17 hours to complete the course.

A junior triathlon was also held, with 180 young athletes competing in a 0.2-km swim and a 1.6-km run. Each participant received a finisher's medal featuring the event mascot, Bobi Bear.