Dragon Vulture Ten Ascents 2026

Presentation

The Dragon Vulture Ten Ascents is an exciting trail running event that captures the breathtaking beauty of Ningbo while challenging athletes with its unique elevation changes. Scheduled for January 3, 2026, this race forms a crucial part of the trail running calendar, drawing participants from across regions to experience the mesmerizing landscapes along the Dragon Vulture Ancient Trail. This trail not only offers a thick blanket of scenic beauty but also significant elevation gain that puts both mental and physical endurance to the test.

Located near Shenxi Village in Haishu, the event represents a fusion of rich history and spectacular terrain. The area is renowned for its picturesque ridges, tea gardens, and serene lakes, offering a diverse backdrop that enhances the running experience. Unique to this event is its placement within the ITRA index, solidifying its reputation as a competitive event for trail enthusiasts, with the potential for valuable points that can impact runners' rankings in various trail running series, including those leading up to prestigious events like the UTMB.

Courses and formats

Trail Run (5.3 km)

The main format for the Dragon Vulture Ten Ascents is a shorter trail run of 5.3 kilometers, which consists of 350 meters of elevation gain followed by the same amount of elevation loss. The course is carefully designed to create a challenging yet achievable loop, which starts and finishes at Shenxi Village. Runners will navigate through notable landmarks such as Longqi Lake, the Jingshan Tea Garden, and the Longgang Ridge, ensuring that every step is imbued with both challenge and beauty.

Throughout the race, participants can expect several aid stations that will provide hydration and nutritional support. These stations are strategically placed to ensure that runners can maintain their energy levels and remain focused on completing the course. The event organizers place high importance on ensuring accessibility to resources for all participants, irrespective of their experience level.

Terrain and difficulty

The terrain of the Dragon Vulture Ten Ascents predominantly features rocky paths interspersed with lush forestry and scenic single-track trails. Runners will experience varied terrain, which provides both thrilling altitude changes and stretches of flat running that allow for speed. The transitions between these terrains are designed to test a runner’s adaptability and technique.

In terms of weather, participants should prepare for cool temperatures typical of early January in Ningbo. The average temperature during this time ranges from 5°C to 15°C. As for altitude, the course starts at an elevation of approximately 200 meters and peaks around 550 meters. Given these details, athletes should come prepared for a physical challenge that requires a decent level of fitness and technical ability to navigate effectively.

History and notable results

The Dragon Vulture Ten Ascents was established to foster a love for trail running and encourage athletes to explore the beautiful but demanding landscape of Ningbo. Since its inception, it has steadily grown in popularity, with each year drawing a larger field of both novice and seasoned trail runners. Various notable editions have seen remarkable performances and solid course records being set.

As the event continues to evolve, it showcases the increasing interest in trail running as a sport in China, particularly among urban athletes seeking balance between nature and physical endurance. Though specific records and famous participants from past events are not documented, competitive spirits and local enthusiasm continue to thrive, making it a sought-after event on the trail running calendar.

Practical info for participants

• Mandatory gear: Trail shoes, hydration pack or water bottles, energy gels or snacks, appropriate clothing layers for weather conditions.
• Qualifications: There are no strict qualifications for entering this event, making it accessible for various skill levels. However, training for elevation gain is recommended.
• Cutoff times: Runners are expected to complete the loop within a specified time frame, which will be communicated closer to the event date.
• Drop bag logistics: Participants will have the option to leave a drop bag at the start/finish area to access additional supplies during the race.
• Access/accommodation: Shenxi Village is easily accessible by public transport and there are various accommodation options available nearby for participants traveling from outside Ningbo.