#China #Kailas FUGA #Gongga 100 #Ganzi #China Trail Running

Kailas FUGA Gongga 100: An Extreme Challenge in China

On October 2, 2025, Kailas FUGA, a leading trail running brand in China, alongside Letour Sports, successfully launched the inaugural Kailas FUGA Gongga 100 Extreme Glacier Challenge in the picturesque province of Sichuan. This highly anticipated event was seven years in the making, involving meticulous planning and cooperation with local authorities and communities. The race opened a unique pathway to the usually inaccessible Hailuogou glacier area at the foot of Mount Gongga, one of the world's most challenging terrains for athletes.

Establishing a New Standard for Trail Running

The Gongga 100 is not just another race; it represents a monumental shift in the landscape of trail running in China. With aspirations to make it a premier global destination for international runners, Kailas FUGA aims to elevate the country as a competitive hub for extreme sports. According to Baggio ZHONG, the founder and product director of Kailas, the vision is clear: "We want the race to be more international. In the future, I envision it becoming one of the most significant races in the world." He emphasizes the unique allure and imposing challenges offered by the Gongga environment for participants.

Diverse and Challenging Routes

The competition featured several route options aimed at providing something for everyone. Ranging from a shorter 30-kilometer route which begins at an altitude of 1,600 meters to an arduous 100-kilometer course that peaks at 4,100 meters—with a challenging glacial segment—the event catered to both novice and expert runners alike. During the inaugural event, 1,000 competitors took part across three different distances: 30 km, 55 km, and 100 km.

This race is part of a larger initiative that includes over 100 international races organized annually by Letour Sports, highlighting a new era of trail running experiences in China. The event not only showcases the country's extreme landscapes but also aims to foster economic growth by attracting tourism to off-the-beaten-path communities.

An International Attraction

The 2025 edition of the Gongga 100 saw participants from seven different countries, enriching the diverse atmosphere of the event. Bryon Powell, a notable American runner and previous winner of the Ultra Gobi 800, spoke highly of the race, noting that it offers more than just a physical challenge; it provides an immersive experience that highlights the food, culture, people, and breathtaking scenery of western China. Powell praised the camaraderie among competitors, emphasizing the supportive environment despite the steep ascents and descents that marked the routes.

Innovative Gear for Extreme Conditions

In conjunction with the race, Kailas FUGA also introduced their latest footwear model, the DU2 GTX, specifically crafted for the rigorous demands of icy, rocky, and muddy terrains. This launch aligns perfectly with the brand's commitment to equipping athletes with the best available gear to tackle challenging conditions.

As the Kailas FUGA Gongga 100 takes its place in the global racing calendar, it serves not just as a test of endurance and skill but as a cultural bridge that connects international runners with the stunning natural beauty and local traditions of China. With a promising future ahead, the Gongga 100 is set to establish itself as one of the hallmark events in the world of trail running.