Kailas FUGA Ultra-Tour Mount Siguniang: A Decade of Excellence
Kailas FUGA, a leading name in trail running, recently marked its 10-year anniversary as the proud sponsor of the Kailas FUGA Ultra-Tour Mount Siguniang (UTMS). This celebration coincided with the event that drew elite athletes from around the globe to experience one of China's most demanding ultra trail races.
A Race Like No Other
The UTMS is famed for its challenging courses, which begin at a staggering altitude of 3400 meters and soar to 4500 meters. Running through the magnificent Siguniang Mountains, participants can choose from races of different distances: 35k, 45k, 50k, 75k, and 100k. Each route presents unique challenges, often enveloped in snow and ice, attracting competitors eager for both a physical challenge and breathtaking views. This year, the event welcomed participants from diverse backgrounds, including elite runners hailing from China, France, Germany, Italy, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, and the United Kingdom.
The competition was fierce, yet the athletes brought their A-game, resulting in an impressive 8 podium positions secured by the Kailas FUGA and FUGA Mountain Club teams. Noteworthy achievements included:
- - 35k: Dasha Goreva (1st, Women), Daniel Fernandez (3rd, Men)
- - 45k: Guiditta Turini (1st, Women), William Boffelli (1st, Men)
- - 50k: Clementine Ebel (1st, Women), Kristian Chapman (3rd, Men)
- - 75k: Navil Shaimuhamctov (1st, Men)
- - 100k: Melinda Parfait (2nd, Women), Franco Collé (2nd, Men), Daniel Keppler (3rd, Men)
A Commitment to Endurance Sports
Since its inception in 2014, the Kailas FUGA Ultra-Tour Mount Siguniang has emerged as a premier event in the trail running calendar of China. The remarkable demand for participation is evident, with bibs selling out in just eight minutes each year. A Erman, the founder of UTMS, expressed pride in the race's evolution, noting its status as one of the world's toughest races. He stated, “Our partnership with Kailas FUGA has transformed this competition into the ultimate endurance challenge while ensuring safety and enjoyment for all participants.”
Kailas FUGA's Marketing Director, Nina Sun, emphasized the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of trail running. “Our collaboration with the Ultra-Tour Mount Siguniang underscores Kailas FUGA's core values. The ruggedness of Mount Siguniang offers us opportunities for product innovation, as our athletes face conditions where conventional gear falls short. It requires maximum grip from shoes and robust materials,” Sun remarked.
Driving Growth in the Trail Running Industry
Kailas FUGA is dedicated to enhancing the trail running scene by sponsoring events and encouraging the participation of global athletes. The company aims to foster a more vibrant and accessible running community. Chen Wei, Senior Manager of Sports Marketing in the International Department, noted, “Kailas is focused on promoting mountaineering and adventure sports, particularly climbing and trail running. Through our active involvement in the Siguniang Mountain region, we have created a comprehensive platform for outdoor enthusiasts.”
As Kailas FUGA celebrates a decade of commitment to trail running, it continues to inspire athletes and elevate the sport to new heights. The UTMS stands not just as a race but as a testament to dedication, endurance, and the breathtaking beauty of nature.
Photos from this year’s event showcase the vibrancy and excitement that accompany such rigorous challenges.