The Chinese runner Zhao Jiaju wrote his name in the history of ultramarathon by winning the demanding Giant's Journey race held in Italy. With a 330 km course, he completed the race in less than 66 hours, an unprecedented milestone in the competition that makes him the first Asian athlete to lift the trophy.
A feat that transcends borders
Held on September 16, the race brought together top-level athletes on a course that tests physical and mental limits. Zhao Jiaju not only won but broke the 66-hour barrier, something no one had achieved until then. The result surprised experts and fans, especially because he came from a background of little recognition.
A mother's concern
The next day, in Xiangxi, Hunan province, the athlete's mother gave an interview and revealed the human side behind the achievement. She stated that she does not want to turn her son into an icon, emphasizing that he is just one runner among many talented ones. For her, the most important thing is not the podium, but knowing that he returned without serious injuries.
The list of equipment required by the organization included an item that left her in tears: a mortuary sheet. After watching a single stage in person, she decided not to repeat the experience, such was the emotional impact.
From debt to recognition
Before success, Zhao Jiaju faced disbelief and had to take on debts exceeding 100,000 yuan to participate in the race. Criticism on social media was frequent, but his mother always defended her son publicly. Today, the result silences the skeptics and opens the way for new Asian talents on the international ultramarathon scene.
- First Asian victory in the race
- Record time below 66 hours
- 330 km of extreme challenge in Italy