Meet Chen, the Ultramarathon Pioneer

A Pioneer in China’s Ultramarathon Scene

A pioneer in China’s ultramarathon scene, has spent more than 20 years challenging the limits of human endurance, gaining a “Forrest Gump-style” reputation among sports enthusiasts worldwide.

Recent Achievements

Earlier this year, Chen triumphed at the tough 255 km Doliho Ultra-Marathon in Greece, clocking an impressive 40 hours and 55 minutes.

This achievement is part of a long list of honors in Chen’s remarkable career, which includes finishing ultramarathons on every continent.

Staggering Statistics

At the age of 46, Chen has completed the equivalent of six laps around the Earth, amassing an incredible 240,000 km in the last 24 years.

He has been likened to “China’s Forrest Gump,” a comparison that, while simplistic, captures their inspiring journeys of grit and determination.

From Skepticism to Success

In the beginning, his family and friends had difficulty comprehending his passion for running.

Some said, “What’s the use of running like this? It’s all for nothing. But if I had thrown in the towel then, I wouldn’t be the individual I am today.”

In spite of the skepticism, Chen’s steadfast 24-year commitment has led to numerous accolades that adorn his studio.

The Journey Begins

Chen’s remarkable journey began long after his days as an ordinary fisherman on a coastal island in Zhejiang Province, eastern China.

At the age of 14, he joined his father at sea to fish, yet he found it difficult to make a good living from this labor.

Chen was uncertain about his future until a significant event changed everything—he won a push-up contest in his town.

A Path of Perseverance

Following this success, Chen shifted away from fishing and began entering various competitions, including crab catching, mountain biking, and TV Guinness record challenges.

His strong physique helped him earn enough prize money to support himself.

Between 2001 and 2003, Chen participated in a TV series focused on Guinness World Record attempts.

In one episode, he ran his first marathon in leather shoes and impressively finished in second place.

A Life of Endurance

Prior to 2009, Chen had already excelled in various endurance competitions in China.

However, after completing his first marathon in Mont Blanc, France, he set a new goal to conquer endurance races across all seven continents.

His journey commenced in 2010 in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of northwest China, where he ran 250 kilometers in the summer desert and finished third.

Overcoming Setbacks

In 2009, a knee injury during a race left Chen feeling defeated, but this setback became a pivotal moment, prompting him to concentrate on running techniques and technology rather than solely relying on physical strength.

Today, Chen shares his knowledge as a guest sports instructor in schools and engages with runners across the country online, advocating for healthy and scientific training methods.

A Commitment to Running

His wife, Huang Qingqing, has always been his most devoted supporter, traveling with him on his competitive escapades around the world.

“I started running consistently around March last year. At first, it was difficult to maintain a regular routine, but now, if I don’t go for a run, I feel like I’m missing something from my day.”

Conclusion

Chen has well exceeded the typical peak age for athletes. However, his enthusiasm and commitment to running remain as strong as ever.

He continues to perform competitively, sticking to a daily routine of running 10 kilometers.

The avid runner expressed his intention to keep running, hoping to inspire others to embrace exercise and pursue a healthier lifestyle.

FAQs

Q: What inspired Chen to take up running?

A: Chen’s journey began with a push-up contest in his town, which he won with a remarkable 440 push-ups.

Q: How has Chen’s training evolved over the years?

A: Chen has focused on running techniques and technology, moving away from solely relying on physical strength after a knee injury in 2009.

Q: What advice does Chen give to aspiring runners?

A: Chen emphasizes the importance of maintaining a regular routine and incorporating healthy and scientific training methods.