Runners compete in the 2025 Kailas Mogan Mountain Trail Race in Deqing county, Huzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo by Xie Shangguo]

A total of 41,000 applications were submitted for the 2026 Kailas Mogan Mountain Trail Race, set to be held in October in Moganshan town, Huzhou, Zhejiang province, from which 15,000 runners were selected.

The figure marks a sharp rise from the first race in 2017, when 800 runners took part in two race categories. Over the past decade, the event has grown into what organizers say is the world's largest trail running race by participation.

In 2025, more than 11,000 people participated, coming from 21 countries and regions.

Wan Cong, head of Deqing Langtu Sports Culture Development Co, attributed the race's growth to Moganshan's location in the Yangtze River Delta region, convenient transport links, pleasant autumn weather, and close coordination between the organizer and local authorities.

Runners pass through a bamboo forest. [Photo by Xie Shangguo]

The event has also become a driver of local tourism. Organizers launched a "Runner-Friendly Program" in 2023, encouraging local businesses to offer discounts and services for participants. The number of participating merchants grew from 68 in 2024 to 115 in 2025.

According to organizers, each edition of the race generates more than 20 million yuan ($2.95 million) in direct local spending.

Villagers also volunteer at aid stations and along the course, making community participation a defining feature of the event.