TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Ultramarathon athlete Chen Yen-po (陳彥博) became the first Asian to complete a 617 kilometer foot race in the arctic on Friday.

The 6633 Arctic Ultra is billed by organizers as the world’s “toughest, coldest, and windiest” race, per CNA. It takes place over nine days throughout Canada’s north, and only nine people registered to undertake the full race this year.

The 38-year-old Chen led at the outset but had inflamed feet near the race’s midpoint. Medics suggested his feet could be infected, but he continued to finish the race in seven days, 23 hours, and 19 minutes.

Chen told CNA that he prepared for the race by pulling a sled from Taipei to Kaohsiung. He also trained in low temperatures atop Yangmingshan to simulate polar conditions.

Chen said he hoped to inspire others to take action and pursue their dreams. “When you devote yourself wholeheartedly, your dreams will come nearer,” he said.

Chen’s Instagram account posted thanks to his supporters after he finished. “Yen-po’s determination to outdo himself is obvious to all. Let’s allow him a good rest, and share his achievements with everyone.”