The Early Years
2010Established in 2010, the Gobi March is now 16 years old. From its first edition in Hami, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in China.
Get Your Training Plan
Free, personalized for this race
Course & Elevation
The Gobi March traverses the stunning Gobi Desert landscape near Hami in Xinjiang, featuring semi-arid terrain with rolling sand dunes and sparse vegetation. Runners experience the unique contrast of desert vistas with distant mountain views, passing through traditional settlements and oasis areas. The course alternates between hardpan desert roads and sandy sections, testing both speed and desert running endurance.
Surface: road Profile: Rolling
Weather
Temperature 32°C
Humidity 25%
Rain Chance 5%
Extremely hot and dry desert conditions with intense sun exposure and minimal shade. Low humidity but high UV index requires extensive sun protection and hydration management.
The Race
Hami
Race Lore
Running on Empty
The Gobi March takes place in one of the most extreme environments in endurance sport. The desert landscape strips away everything except the essentials: one foot in front of the other, hydration discipline, and the stubborn refusal to stop. It's not just a race — it's a reckoning.
The Heat Factor
With average race-day temperatures around 32°C, the Gobi March is as much a battle against heat as against distance. DNF rates climb when the sun is out, and smart pacing in Hami's warmth separates experienced runners from those who went out too hard and paid for it.
🏅 Create Your Gobi March Diploma
Finished this race? Get a free certificate with celebrity comparisons & race day weather
Registration
Registration Opens March
Registration Closes May
Entry Cost ¥680-¥880
Register Now
Official Website →
Fun Facts
- ▸ The race takes place in one of China's most extreme desert regions with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C in June
- ▸ Runners traverse the ancient Silk Road, retracing paths of historical merchants and explorers
- ▸ The event emphasizes environmental conservation and partnerships with local Uyghur communities in Xinjiang
- ▸ Despite extreme heat, the race has grown significantly since 2010, attracting international desert running enthusiasts
Compare With Similar Races
Are you the race organizer?
Free · Get featured on our homepage · Edit your race details
Get alerts for Gobi March
Registration openings, date changes, sell-out warnings.