Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) said Thursday he hopes a team of blind Taiwanese runners competing in a grueling New York ultramarathon will become “sports ambassadors” for Taiwan, showcasing the island’s commitment to disability inclusion and mutual support. 

Lin said he hosted a flag-presenting ceremony at the ministry on August 10 to wish the delegation safe travels before they depart for the “Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race,” the world’s longest certified road race, which covers 4989 kilometers and must be completed within 52 days. This year’s 30th edition begins at 6 a.m. on August 30 and runs through October 20, requiring competitors to average nearly 100 kilometers daily.

The team includes ‘ultra marathon godfather’ Lo Wei-ming (羅維銘), attempting his fifth 3100-mile finish, and visually impaired athletes Wu Chen-an (吳鎮安) and Ku Chi-che (古奇哲), who will run in a charity opening event with the aid of pacers. Lin said their resilience and the support surrounding them tell a moving story that transcends culture and language. 

Thinking of the Taiwan Blindrunner for Charity Association, Rotary International and other supporters, Lin tied the efforts to his ‘integrated diplomacy’ push, saying everyone can be a diplomat for Taiwan. 

Integrated diplomacy means being a diplomat; each person is Taiwan’s representative, sharing the best of Taiwan with the world,” he said. Lin added he hopes the three runners will help convey Taiwan’s values of equality, inclusion and solidarity as they compete on the global stage.