YRS New Year Climbing 2026 2026

Presentation

The YRS New Year Climbing 2026 is a premier trail running event set against the stunning backdrop of Beijing, China. Celebrate the start of the new year by immersing yourself in a vibrant community of trail enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. This enduring race, which is part of the ITRA index, offers an ideal platform for athletes to kick off their competitive season with vigor. Not just an athletic endeavor, this event provides an opportunity to experience the unique landscapes of the Beijing region, including its lush forests and challenging terrains.

Founded with the goal of promoting outdoor sports and the beautiful trails within the Beijing area, the YRS New Year Climbing has quickly gained a solid reputation in the trail running calendar. Scheduled to take place on January 2nd, 2026, this race is not only a competitive event but also serves as a benchmark for many athletes aiming for greater challenges in the future, such as the UTMB series.

Courses and formats

10km Trail Running

The 10km format is designed to test both speed and endurance, featuring a mix of steep inclines and fast descents. The total elevation gain is approximately 400 meters, making it a moderate yet exhilarating course.

Trail surfaces will vary, including packed dirt paths and single-track trails that twist through scenic valleys and shaded forests. Key passages of interest include breathtaking lookouts that provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

There are two strategically placed aid stations stocked with hydration and nutrition goods to keep participants fueled throughout the race. The cutoff time is set at 2 hours, ensuring that runners can complete the course in an enjoyable timeframe.

21km Trail Running

This advanced 21km trail running format offers a more demanding challenge, boasting a total elevation gain of around 800 meters. Athletes will navigate through diverse trail types, including rocky sections and both steep climbs and descents, necessitating solid technical skills and proper pacing.

Runners can expect captivating views at specific checkpoints, often maintaining stunning views of the mountains and forests. There will be three aid stations throughout the course, providing necessary refreshment and nutrition. The cutoff time for this distance is set at 4 hours.

Terrain and difficulty

The YRS New Year Climbing trail courses mix rocky and forested terrains, ideal for runners looking for a varied landscape. Participants can anticipate sections of single-track paths that require agility and focus. The typical weather in early January in Beijing can range from cool to cold, often hovering around 1 to 8 degrees Celsius (34 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit), so adequate preparation for layering and layering is essential.

Elevation ranges from a minimum of 300 meters to a maximum of about 800 meters above sea level, presenting distinct challenges for athletes, particularly in efficiently managing energy over the course of the events.

A moderate to high level of preparation is recommended, especially for the 21km distance, where the combination of terrain and elevation will test the limits of your training.

History and notable results

Since its inception, the YRS New Year Climbing has blossomed into a noteworthy event within the endurance racing calendar. While specific historical data and notable records are still developing, participants in past editions have celebrated this run for its strong community spirit and stunning outdoor experience.

As the race continues to attract more competitors each year, it is quickly becoming a vital stop for elite trail runners looking for a pre-season warm-up race and an opportunity to earn ITRA points.

Practical info for participants

• Mandatory Gear: Trail running shoes, hydration pack, emergency blanket, and personal identification.
• Qualifications: No specific qualifications are required for participation; however, a good fitness level is recommended.
• Cutoff Times: 10km - 2 hours, 21km - 4 hours.
• Drop Bag Logistics: Runners will be informed about drop bag locations via official communications closer to the event.
• Access/Accommodation: Beijing offers a wide range of accommodations, from hostels to luxury hotels. Public transportation and shuttle services are available for easy access to race venues.