On October 19-20, the 2024 Autumn Badaling Shixia Valley Great Wall Ultra Marathon took place in Beijing, drawing a remarkable 1,574 participants who came together to engage in a test of endurance and spirit at the foot of the ancient Wall.
As the starting gun fired, runners surged forward like arrows, racing along a winding course. They not only relished the exhilaration of trail running but also soaked in the stunning scenery that surrounded them, immersing themselves in the beauty of nature.
The event featured five categories: 45km, 30km, 20km, 10km, and 6km, all themed “Great Wall Trail: Heroes Assemble.” The organizers creatively integrated ancient military titles such as “Commander” and “Defender” into the event categories and course layout.
Starting and finishing at the Badaling Great Wall scenic area and the ancient Great Wall site, the route connected various highlights, including the 5A-rated Badaling Great Wall, the picturesque Badaling National Forest Park, the historical Shixia Fortress, and other distinctive sites. The course was diverse, consisting of sections along the Great Wall, paths in the Taihang Mountain National Forest, dirt trails, forest roads, stone paths, and some paved areas. Elements of Great Wall culture were prominent throughout the race, including in the apparel, medals, and branding, showcasing the unique charm of this iconic landmark.
Zhang Wenjing, the town head of Badaling in Yanqing District, expressed that the local government is leveraging its rich Great Wall resources and cultural heritage by hosting high-profile sports events like the Shixia Valley Great Wall Ultra Marathon. This initiative has attracted participants from across China and over a dozen other countries.
Looking ahead, Zhang mentioned the plan to continue developing the event’s brand, aiming to establish the Shixia Valley Great Wall Ultra Marathon as a leading premium sports event in Beijing’s Yanqing District. The goal is to attract even more participants, enhance its appeal, and further promote the Great Wall as a “golden name card,” contributing to the development of the Beijing-Zhangjiakou Sports and Culture Tourism Belt.
