The online registration for the 11th edition of the Genghis Khan Festival in the Xiwuqi Grasslands in Inner Mongolia have now been opened. Thanks to our acclaimed partner Active signing up is very easy. There are 100 days to score an early bird rate.
The 11th edition will see substantial changes in the course design of the 3-day MTB stage race, whereas the Grassland Marathon and Half Marathon run will remain mostly the same as in previous years. After several years of virtually the same courses, mountainbikers can look forward to exploring new areas of the grasslands around Xiwuqi. The details, however, can only become available after the winter. The Genghis Khan MTB will of course continue to have 3 days of racing and a total distance of approximately 200 km. It is possible that the first stage on Friday will start earlier than before, so that it is vital for mountainbikers to arrive in Xiwuqi on Thursday. On Sunday, the finish of the last stage will also close earlier to allow everyone a chance to complete the race before the return bus to Beijing departs at 16:00 (there are legal reasons why that bus cannot leave Xiwuqi at a later time). An earlier finish of course also means a shorter 3rd stage. As usual, the MTB competition will feature a long distance race, and a short distance race on each day.
The marathon and half marathon courses have been tested and approved and will not be altered, unless unforeseen circumstances demand it after the winter period. The timetable for the running event will also remain the same, which means all participants are expected to enter their starting block by 6:45 a.m., with the start given at 7:00 a.m. The cut-off time for marathon and half marathon is 6 hours and 30 minutes. Less ambitious runners can also opt for a leisurely 10k race.
Also in 2017 athletes can decide to do everything: both the 3 day MTB long distance races and the Grassland Marathon. This is the competition for the King and Queen of the Grassland title, and next year it will already be the fifth time.
In terms of logistics, you can book one of our event hotels, airport shuttle busses and the Beijing-Xiwuqi bus service also conveniently via the registration form. If you are not sure yet how many nights you will stay in Xiwuqi, or when you will fly or take the bus, you can first confirm your race participation and return to the registration form via your password at a later stage to complete logistical details. Note that participation to the races is not unlimited, so better sign up quick to be sure you can take part.
The race registration fees for the races have not changed. You can go the online form, by clicking on the button on the right side of this page.