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Ultramarathon Runner Tommy Chen Gets Ready for Arctic Circle

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By Eason Chen/Sandy Chi

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Tommy Chen, Taiwan's elite ultramarathon runner, has completed his 412-kilometer training route along with supporters. He's preparing for a race, known as the coldest, toughest and windiest long-distance race in the world: the Arctic Ultra.

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Taiwanese Ultra Marathon Runner Prepares for 2025 Arctic Challenge 

Tommy Chen, a 38-year-old elite ultra marathon runner from Taiwan, is pushing his limits once again as he prepares for one of the toughest endurance races in the world: the 2025 6633 Arctic Ultra. 

Scheduled to begin on February 27, the grueling 612-kilometer race is renowned for its extreme conditions, with temperatures plummeting to -50 C. No Asian athlete has ever completed the Arctic Ultra, and Chen hopes to become the first. “I hope to finish the race safely because the risks are very high,” he said. “The probability of finishing it is only 30%.” 

A Cross-Island Training Journey 

To prepare for the Arctic Ultra, Chen embarked on an extraordinary journey across Taiwan at the start of 2025. Over eight days, he ran from Taipei, in the north, to the southern port city of Kaohsiung, covering more than 412 kilometers. Along the way, dozens of runners and cyclists joined him, providing encouragement and camaraderie. 

“I think it’s very interesting, and there’s a sense of passion,” said one participant. Another supporter said Chen demonstrated excellent self-discipline and perseverance, a spirit very few runners possess. For those who couldn’t run alongside him, many sent messages of support and tracked his progress online. 

Chen’s journey culminated with friends and supporters gathering at his final stop to cheer him on. One fan says that he is her emotional support and strength.   
 
Challenges and Reflections 

The cross-island run wasn’t without its challenges. Chen admitted he struggled during the first few days. “I questioned why I was doing this to myself,” he said. “But then my perception shifted. This training lets me visit all the corners of Taiwan. Even if I have to take the long way, getting to appreciate different scenery is another form of happiness.” 

Chen also expressed surprise at the level of support he received. “I didn’t know so many people would come,” he said. “People joked it’s the Taiwanese version of ‘Forrest Gump.’” For Chen, the support of others also brings the responsibility of carrying everyone’s hopes.  

Next Steps in Training 

With less than two months until the Arctic Ultra, Chen’s training will now focus on adapting to the cold. He plans to train in Taiwan’s mountainous regions to simulate the frost and icy conditions of the Arctic Circle. 

Chen’s ultimate goal is to leave his mark on history as the first Asian athlete to conquer the Arctic Ultra.