The first-ever International Ultra Triathlon Association event to be held in Asia could mark another momentous achievement for Shanda Hill.
The Vernon ultra athlete left Vancouver for Taiwan Monday, Nov. 3, to compete in the Taiwan Ultra Super Triathlon, which begins Sunday, Nov. 9. This is a 10-times continuous Iron distance triathlon - 39 kilometre swim (Vernon to Enderby), 1,800 km cycling (Vernon to Winnipeg), and 422 km running (Vernon to Surrey).
For Hill, this is more than another race.
It will mark her 50th Iron distance triathlon in a single calendar year, setting a new world record for the most Iron distance triathlons ever completed by a woman in one year.
"Finishing in Taiwan will close a year that has tested her in every possible way," said Hill's support team on her social media pages. "Fifty Iron distance triathlons in one year is not simply a record. It is a story of endurance, friendship, and the unshakable belief that no dream is too far when you refuse to stop moving forward."
The Taiwan Ultra is directed by Hill's longtime friend and fellow ultra triathlete Tsai Ming Yi, a man she deeply respects.
The two have shared many unforgettable moments in this sport, including the Double Deca in Mexico in 2023, where Ming Yi broke his arm mid-race and still refused to stop. They also raced together at the Triple Deca in Italy in 2024, an event remembered for its sheer difficulty and the many organizational challenges that tested every athlete's patience and resilience.
Through it all, both Hill and Ming Yi have become symbols of endurance and integrity within the ultra community.
In Taiwan, Ming Yi has gone above and beyond to welcome the international athletes. Competitors are provided with accommodation, meals, insurance, and even airport transport, creating a true sense of family among those taking part.
"It is spectacular to see a race director so personally involved and dedicated to supporting his athletes, and Shanda is deeply grateful to be returning to race under his guidance," said Hill's crew.
The race will take place in the historic coastal city of Tainan, known for its temples, night markets, and rich Taiwanese culture. The course loops around the Luermen Holy Mother Temple, a beautiful and spiritual site that will serve as both the race venue and home for the athletes throughout the event.
Competitors will eat, sleep, and race within the temple grounds, surrounded by local volunteers, supporters, and the vibrant energy of the community. It is an environment that feels both sacred and alive, a setting that blends endurance sport with deep cultural connection.
The road to Tainan in 2025 has been filled with triumph and hardship for Hill.
"She has raced through the heat of South Africa, the storms of Brazil, and the relentless winds of France and Poland," said her team. "She has faced exhaustion, injury, and doubt, yet continued to move forward with quiet determination. Every race this year has taught her something new about patience, strength, and gratitude.
"As she prepared to board her flight, Hill carries not only her gear but the lessons of an entire season and the strength of everyone who has supported her along the way."