Taipei ultramarathon to honor Nelson Mandela

2014-12-05

The Dec. 6-7 Soochow International Ultramarathon is to honor late South African President Nelson Mandela, Soochow University said. A memorial event will also be held Dec. 5 to commemorate the first anniversary of Mandela’s death.

When Mandela visited Taiwan in 1993, Soochow University awarded him an honorary doctoral degree in law for his dedication to abolishing apartheid, eradicating poverty, and promoting racial harmony and social injustice.

Liu Yi-chun, CEO of the race, said 42 top runners—including world, Asian and African record holders hailing from 10 countries—will take part in the coming race.

Among the participating athletes, seven have the capability of finishing the 24-hour ultramarathon spanning 240 kilometers for men and 220 kilometers for women. “This will be one of the most challenging races in Asia,” Liu said.

Soochow University President Pan Wei-ta, meanwhile, will separately lead 67 runners on a 67-minute jog and invite 67 teams consisting of 670 runners to run in a five-hour relay. Team members will also recite quotes from Mandela while taking an oath.

Sixty-seven is the number of years Mandela devoted to serving his community, his nation and the world while vying for freedom and human rights in South Africa.

In addition, as Mandela was born July 18, 1918, the U.N. has set his birthday as Nelson Mandela International Day to inspire people to earmark 67 minutes for charitable or community service on that day.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=224879&CtNode=413)