2024 SU Ultra Marathon: Various Records Smashed, 7 Runners Achieve Intl. Standard

News source: The Secretariat

The 20th Soochow International Ultra Marathon kicked off at 9:00 a.m. on November 30, 2024, at the Waishuangshi Campus, drawing 29 athletes from seven countries, including Taiwan, Australia, and the United States. The 24-hour event not only witnessed numerous record-breaking performances but also marked SU's fifth recognition as a Gold Label race by the International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU).

Seven athletes met international standards, with Jacquelyn Camille Herron from the USA setting a new event record and personal best of 263 km in the women's division. Philip Gore from Australia achieved his personal best in the men’s division, covering 270 km.

Taiwanese runners also delivered remarkable performances. Chia-Chun Chang finished the race as the first place among Taiwanese runners with a personal best of 233.350 km. Kuan-Ju Lin, the national women’s record holder, shattered her own 100-mile record with a time of 15 hours, 19 minutes, and 21 seconds.

Highlighting the spirit of resilience, SU alumnus Zhee Long Cheng from Malaysia, who has cerebral palsy, completed 75.345 km. A dedicated contestant for 10 times since 2011, Tseng noted this might be his final race, yet his determination exemplifies true sportsmanship.

Soochow University meticulously organized and proceeded to the event, enhancing the track with Olympic-grade synthetic rubber to support athlete performance. The university also promoted sustainability, encouraging participants to use reusable equipment, limit waste, and bring personal water bottles, reinforcing a commitment to eco-friendly sporting practices.