The Taipei Marathon 2023 on Sunday encountered unexpected hurdles as low temperatures led to one runner suffering a stroke and three others grappling with cardiac arrest. The Taipei City Government’s Department of Sports revealed that adverse weather conditions directly contributed to these health emergencies.

Men aged 26, 46, and 50 were the unfortunate victims of cardiac arrest, while a 42-year-old male participant experienced a stroke during the race. The stroke survivor remained conscious and was swiftly transported to a hospital for immediate medical attention.

Rapid intervention by marathon organisers, who ensured on-site medical professionals, played a pivotal role in the subsequent recovery of the four affected runners. Following treatment in local hospitals, all four individuals witnessed an improvement in their conditions.

In addition to the medical emergencies, a female participant incurred injuries after a fall and was promptly transported to a hospital for necessary treatment.

Despite these unforeseen challenges, the dedication of marathon organisers to participant safety shone through. Their proactive measures and swift medical responses contributed significantly to positive outcomes.

The Taipei Marathon, with an unprecedented 30,000 participants from 62 nations, commenced with the firing of the starting pistol at 6:30 am. Ethiopian runners Dechasa Alemu Moreda and Obse Abdeta Deme emerged as champions in the men’s and women’s categories.

Moreda clinched victory in the 42.195km race in 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 56 seconds, while Deme claimed the top spot in the women’s category, completing the marathon in 2 hours, 27 minutes, and 14 seconds.