Taiwan Tourism Bureau and the Taiwan Cyclist Federation have announced the winners of the Taiwan KOM Challenge 2014 cycling race. Denmark's John Ebsen was announced the official winner in the men's race reclaiming his crown having taken the top spot in 2012 as well. In the women's race Marg Fedyna from Canada walked away with the first place prize.

The Taiwan King of the Mountain Challenge – shortened to Taiwan KOM Challenge – took place on 15 November 2014. At 10,700 feet it is one of the steepest courses in competitive cycling and over 400 cyclists took part, from amateur cyclists to professional foreign participants from overseas. The mountain ascent travels from the eastern coastal town of Hualien, starting at sea level, and climbs through scenic valleys to the finish at the summit of Hehuan Mountain in Huling. Whilst challenging ones' stamina and strength, the route also includes a great variety of breathtaking scenery, making this a unique cycling challenge.

Men's race

This year's race kicked off early in the morning under wet skies in Hualien – the rainy weather conditions making the challenge even more intense. Ronald Yeung from Hong Kong stole the early pole position, but Ebsen's previous experience of the track put him in good stead for the win; picking the optimum time to attack, Ebsen pulled away from the group only as the final 8km mark loomed ahead of him. Second place winner, Ronald Yeung, put on a good race and but was unable to compete with the Danish pro continental rider.

Women's race

The women's race saw the international professionals, Tiffany Cromwell (Australia), Jo Hogan (Australia) and Marg Fedyna (Canada) all competing against each other for the win. An early collision saw Cromwell and Hogan scupper their chances of winning – allowing Fedyna to race ahead to seal the well-earned victory. After the race, Fedyna told reports said, “Maybe I'll buy a new bike.” Fedyna finished in 4:39.52, over three minutes ahead of the second placed rider.

For more information, please visit:  www.taiwankom.org

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