Convincing Wins from Storch and Derron Headline Record-Breaking Challenge Taiwan

Challenge Taiwan once again lived up to its reputation as the world’s largest triathlon, welcoming over 10,000 athletes to Taitung for a weekend of world-class racing and unforgettable performances. At the sharp end of the field, Australia’s Kieran Storch and Switzerland’s Julie Derron delivered commanding victories in the professional races, each asserting dominance in very different ways.

Storch Defends in Style

Kieran Storch (AUS) successfully defended his title with authority, stopping the clock in 3:42:08—over four minutes faster than his winning time last year. Despite exiting the swim behind early leader Benjamin Zorgnotti (FRA), Storch executed a calculated race, steadily closing a two-minute deficit on the bike before unleashing a decisive run.

Zorgnotti led out of the water in 25:40 and maintained control through much of the bike leg, but Storch remained within striking distance throughout. The race shifted on the run, where Storch methodically reeled in the Frenchman and made his move just before the halfway mark. From there, he never looked back.

Zorgnotti held on for second in 3:45:59, while Australia’s Rhys Corbishley produced one of the standout performances of the day. Charging from ninth after the swim to third overall, Corbishley secured his first professional podium in 3:55:58.

“I really like coming here—it feels like a second home,” said Storch. “The conditions made it tough on the bike, especially with the rain, but it was great to push the run and take the win again.”

Derron Dominates, Sisterly Podium Moment

In the women’s race, Olympic silver medalist Julie Derron (SUI) delivered a masterclass, leading from the swim through to the finish to claim victory in 4:03:29. Her performance was highlighted not only by control but by a significant margin—finishing 12:53 ahead of second place.

Derron exited the water first in 26:06, closely followed by New Zealand’s Rebecca Clarke, before quickly establishing control with a sharp transition and aggressive bike leg. By the end of the 90km ride, she had stretched her advantage to over six minutes.

Behind her, the race for the podium intensified. Nina Derron (SUI), Julie’s sister, surged into second place heading into T2 and held her ground through the run, securing a memorable 1-2 finish for the Derron family in 4:16:22. Clarke rounded out the podium in 4:22:01.

“It’s amazing to share the podium with my sister,” said Julie Derron. “I knew my run would be my strength, and once I found my rhythm, I felt confident I could hold the lead.”

A True Celebration of Triathlon

Beyond the elite race, Challenge Taiwan once again showcased its unique spirit, bringing together thousands of age-group athletes from around the world. The scale of participation, combined with high-level competition, reinforces its status as a cornerstone event on the global triathlon calendar.

From breakthrough performances like Corbishley’s first podium to the rare and special moment of sisters sharing the top two steps, Challenge Taiwan delivered both depth and drama—hallmarks of a race that continues to grow in stature each year.