Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

The award ceremony honoring marathoner Chen Yen-po took place at city hall on April 19. Mayor Hau Lung-bin presented Chen with a cash award of NT$60,000 in recognition of the runner’s achievements at the 2010 North Pole Marathon – dubbed "the coldest marathon in the world".
Chen finished third in the competition that wrapped up on April 7. This year’s race attracted 26 runners from 10 nations; Chen was the only contestant from Asia.
A graduate of Cheng Yuan High School and currently enrolled in the graduate school of National Taiwan Sports University, Chen pointed out that he will donate the award money to his alma mater, to be used as a training fund for students.
Chen said he suffered hypothermia and frostbites during the last two laps. Despite these obstacles, he managed to complete the race with the help of sheer willpower. The marathon under freezing condition is an unique experience he will never forget.
The mayor praised Chen for his courage of participating in a marathon held in one of the most remote corners of the world, braving severe weather conditions. Hau said he looks forward to seeing Chen taking on more challenges in the future. He described the young athlete as a role model for his peers.