About Ultra Gobi Series
Launched in 2006, the Ultra Gobi Series is the creative vision of Qu Xiangdong, President of the Beijing Xingzhi Exploring Group. The series features the 121 KM TEAM and 121 KM SOLO races, along with the prestigious Ultra Gobi 400 KM race.
Since inception, our aim has been to create an experience that goes well beyond a running competition. The Ultra Gobi Series is a platform for personal growth, fostering friendships and collaboration, and helping to see nature through new eyes.
By tracing the footsteps of the legendary Monk Master Xuanzang, who journeyed over 1300 years ago, participants can embody the spirit of "ideal, action, perseverance, and transcendence" that defines the Xuanzang legacy, allowing them to appreciate the historical significance of Silk Road economic and cultural exchanges.
With nearly two decades of experience, Xingzhi Exploring has solidified its reputation as a premier organizer of races in the Gobi Desert.
Do you have any questions?
Contact us: ultragobiseries@gmail.com
Qu Xiangdong
Founder of the Ultra Gobi Series,
President of the Xingzhi Exploring Group
Origin of the Ultra Gobi Series
The Ultra Gobi Series was inspired by the journey of Master Xuanzang, a Buddhist scholar, translator, and traveler who traveled from China to India more than 1,300 years ago.
Master Xuanzang embarked on his legendary pilgrimage to India in 629CE, defying an imperial travel ban. His journey spanned 17 years, during which he traveled on foot through Central Asia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India, covering about 10,000 kilometers. Along the way, he faced numerous challenges, including harsh deserts, high mountain passes, bandits, and political unrest.
Master Xuanzang described the area of the Ultra Gobi Series as a barren stretch of “800 li of quicksand” - a 400km lifeless expanse of desert where even the stars seemed to burn like devilish flames.
Still to this day Master Xuanzang is celebrated as a symbol of intellectual curiosity, resilience, and dedication to intercultural understanding.
