I am writing from Wulong where I am scouting for the 2008 race course. While the final course has not been confirmed by sponsors and the local government, I can announce some very exciting segments I plan. I have put a lot more emphasis on biking over varied terrain and have included some long downhill sections. There will be a real cracker down into the Wulong gorge with a total descent of over 1000m on dirt tracks with fantastic views. I also found a tight gorge with 500 m sheer walls on both sides. In this we are planning a mixture of a run and a canyoning section, some segments of this will be secured by fixed ropes. For all the runners of you, I have planned a run up the escarpment of the Wulong river with an elevation gain of over 1000m. There will also be a longer mountain run through some amazing scenery with many ups and downs, all on small village paths through fields and forests.

There will also be some sections very similar to the 2007 edition. We will again have a run through the town of Wulong which will be lined by the town folks cheering you on. Both caves, the lit and well paved Furong show cave as well as the longer caving section at the Baiguo Cave will again be included. There will also be paddling on the fast moving Wulong river, but I managed to include a new section higher up in the gorge.

We have also secured a new sponsor for apparel and signage. Ozark is the leading Chinese equipment company and has outfitted many Everest expeditions. Over the past 10 years, they have been committed of supporting outdoor sports in China. They will not only provide staff and athletes with race apparel but also provide us with other promotional support. I believe that this will enhance the visual effect of the race but more importantly will provide us with improved facilities such as sun and rain protection. We are also in discussion with Shimano to have a bike mechanic with some spares on site.

We already have some strong teams confirmed for this year’s race and I am looking forward to seeing them at the start. Team Adventure NZ (second in 2008) , lead by Richard Ussher has announced their participation, as have the friendly Frenchmen of Team Lafuma (forth in 2008) and the Finns led by veteran racer Petri Forsman. Team Nike (champions in 2007) have scheduled our race in their calendar and many other teams from all around the world, including the top Chinese team have confirmed their participation.

Last year, the top three teams received a free entry and return airfares from their home town to Chongqin for the 2008 edition. This year, we will be offering the same again for entry to the 2009 edition. Please also remember that the price

money has been increased to 150,000 US $, with the champion taking away a cool 35,000 US $, plus possible stage prices.

As always, please direct all your inquiries to Wei Jun, the assistant course director at weijun_1022@163.com.

I am looking forward to seeing you all in Wulong in August.

Peter Weinig

Course Director