Kunming, China to Usher in New Era for XTERRA

Press Release / 11.01.2019

XTERRA Global LLC, owners and producers of the XTERRA World Tour, today announced a strategic partnership with Yunnan Overseas Chinese Town (OCT) Industrial Company, LTD, to bring the XTERRA Kunming off-road triathlon and sports festival to OCT Yangzong Lake Resort in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, on the weekend of September 21-22, 2019.

The international expansion for XTERRA into Southwest China represents a bold new step for XTERRA, which boasts off-road triathlon and trail running events in 30 countries worldwide.
 
“It’s a land of opportunity with tremendous growth potential,” said XTERRA President Janet Clark.  “We’re excited to share the Live More spirit of XTERRA with the people of China, and also to invite the XTERRA Tribe to join us in Kunming and discover a truly magnificent destination rich in culture and natural beauty.”

The venue is well known for its mountains, lakes, forests, grasslands and caves; and boasts a bird’s eye view of the centuries-old Yunnan-Vietnam Railway.

Nicolas Lebrun, a former XTERRA World Champion triathlete and the director of XTERRA Europe, is helping design the course and hosting educational clinics in China on coaching, training, and course management.

“Kunming is a great destination for XTERRA,” said Lebrun.  “The course itself is beautiful and has a good mix of single track, big climbs, and open spaces for passing. It’s a real adventure. Visitors will love it as there is comfort all around.  There is a small town to explore the local shops, culture, and restaurants, and the food is delicious.  The whole experience is fascinating, and I look forward to celebrating the inaugural event with everyone in September.”

XTERRA Kunming is the last of five majors on the 2019 XTERRA Asia-Pacific Tour, offering up $25,000 USD elite prize money, 100-point scale scoring, and 51 qualifying spots for amateurs into their choice of the 2019 or 2020 XTERRA World Championship race in Maui. 

The Kunming race will combine a 1.5-kilometer swim in the azure-colored Yangzong Lake with a 30K two-loop mountain bike through the regions’ famous purple sage flowers, and a 10K trail run that twists along mountain and lake trails.  In addition to the main event on Sunday, Sept. 22, XTERRA Kunming will feature trail running and mountain bike races on Saturday, Sept. 21.

“Beyond the races, visitors will be treated to world-class hospitality, singing and dancing, and the simple way of life found among the 26 ethnic groups in the area,” said Clark.  “Their distinct ethnic characteristics can be seen in their colorful customs, unique cuisine, gorgeous clothing, and stunning architecture.”

Learn more about XTERRA and the Asia-Pacific Tour, get tips on traveling to Kunming, and find race, destination, and registration information online at www.xterraplanet.com.