#China #Kailas FUGA #Gongga 100 #Ganzi #extreme race

Kailas FUGA Gongga 100: A New Era in Extreme Racing

In the heart of Sichuan, China, an exhilarating challenge awaits trail running enthusiasts. The inaugural Kailas FUGA Gongga 100 Extreme Glacier Challenge recently took place, promising a unique experience in one of the world’s most extreme environments at the foot of Mount Gongga. This ambitious event was executed after seven years of meticulous planning in collaboration with Letour Sports, local government, and communities.

A Unique Racing Experience

The Gongga 100 not only highlights the stunning scenery and rich culture of Western China but also aims to position China as a prominent destination for global trail runners. Participants gained exclusive access to the usually off-limits Hailuogou Glacier, offering breathtaking views and challenging trails.

Baggio Zhong, the founder and Product Director of Kailas, expressed his aspiration for the race to achieve international recognition. He mentioned, “I want this event to become one of the most important races in the world.” The race challenges runners with varying altitude and terrain complexities, as competitors navigate around the 7,500-meter summit of Mount Gongga.

Challenging Terrain and Multiple Distances

Each route varies significantly in elevation, presenting unique challenges for both amateurs and seasoned runners. The shortest route spans 30 kilometers starting from 1,600 meters, while the 100-kilometer course climbs to staggering heights of 4,100 meters, featuring rigorous glacier stretches. This varied landscape promises an arduous but rewarding experience.

For the first edition of the event, 1,000 runners participated across three distinct distances: 100 km, 55 km, and 30 km. This event featured numerous international participants hailing from seven different countries, demonstrating the race's global appeal.

Voices from the Participants

The American runner Bryon Powell, who triumphed in last year's Ultra Gobi 800, described the Gongga experience as more than a mere race. “It provides an immersive experience, integrating local cuisine, culture, and the breathtaking landscapes of this region,” he noted. Despite the grueling ascents and descents, he appreciated the camaraderie and encouragement shared among competitors.

Advancing Trail Running in China

Kailas FUGA recognizes that events like the Gongga 100 have the potential to boost local economies by attracting tourists to remote communities. Letour Sports collaborates on over one hundred international competitions every year, and the Gongga 100 marks the beginning of a new chapter for trail running in China. The event not only serves as a thrilling race but also as an opportunity for sustainable tourism development in the area.

Moreover, Kailas FUGA has launched the DU2 GTX shoes specifically designed for challenging terrains, including icy, rocky, and muddy conditions.

By opening the doors to extreme trail running, Kailas FUGA aims to foster a vibrant and culturally rich community for trail running in China. As the global running community looks forward to future editions, the Gongga 100 promises to be a significant milestone in the realm of extreme sports.

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Stay tuned for more updates as Kailas FUGA continues to push the boundaries of trail running!