Iron men and women rush to the challenge of the triathlon

This year is the first triathlon competition, while the rafting race is entering its fourth year. "We have 100 teams signed up for the rafting race, so it should be quite competitive," Chang said.

For spectators who will find getting to the race site enough of a challenge, the area around Maolin, Lao-Nong and north along the Southern Cross-Island Highway rewards visitors with loads of hot springs, waterfalls and simple hiking trails amid the backdrop of some of Taiwan's tallest mountains. There are also plenty of swimming holes, with crystal-clear water, along the Lao-Nong River to cool off.