Shanghai Running Magazine Shanghai Running Q2 2014. Volume 2 | Page 22

temperatures in the upper-20s, making it a hot day of running. Rolling terrain, dry winds, and a high elevation (1,330 meters) added to the difficulty. By far the best stretch was running through the center of the “ghost city”, which features several buildings with unique architectural designs. Many people and entertainers were brought in to line the course, so at least on this day, it did not seem empty. Volunteers were numerous, smiling, and helpful with drink and medical stops located every 2.5 km along the race course. The scenery on the second half of the course was lacking, as we left the development behind to run along brand new streets through yet-undeveloped grasslands. At times with the wind in my face, I 22 felt as if I were running in place. Eventually, I did finish and was soon toasting the other runners with some well-earned beers back at the hotel. cities I visited. You also can feel like a minor celebrity, with other local runners and media outlets wanting to talk with you or take your photo at the start. Following this first sponsored run, I have also run the Liupanshui (Guizhou) “Cool City” Marathon, where I was able to meet up with several of the people that I ran with in Ordos. Other sponsored races, such as a half marathon on the Yunnan-Sichuan border and a 100 km race in Guizhou, fell at inconvenient times and I was unable to attend. While there have not been any sponsored races over the winter, the season should be starting again soon. In the meantime, I will look forward to the next chance to be treated as a VIP runner in another corner of China. The author can be contacted at [email protected] Running sponsored races provides an excellent opportunity to visit places in China that are a bit off the beaten path. The hospitality has been excellent in both of the © Shanghai Running 2014 © Shanghai Running 2014 23