By outdoor-nature-child.com On October 27, the 2024 Spartan Kids Race concluded in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, marking the event’s second visit to this picturesque region, following its earlier stop in May. Nearly 5,000 young warriors took on the challenge amidst the lush mountains and bamboo forests, emerging with newfound courage and confidence.
During the competition, Lu Tianjie (31:55) and Zhao Jinglan (35:14) claimed the titles of champions in the elite division for the 12 to 14 age group, while Zheng Bohao (38:06) and Monh Leana (37:20) triumphed in the elite division for those aged 9 to 11.
Beyond the elite categories, the event featured three open divisions based on age: 4 to 6 years (3 kilometers with 18 obstacles), 7 to 9 years (4 kilometers with 22 obstacles), and 10 to 14 years (5 kilometers with 26 obstacles). Each group faced varying lengths of courses and a different number of challenges tailored to their age.
The course was expertly set in the wooded hills and bamboo groves of Daicun’s Sanqingyuan, featuring a unique design that emphasized long stretches of running in the first half. This segment required all competitors to navigate through bamboo paths and tackle an elevation gain of nearly 100 meters, presenting a significant challenge for the young athletes.
As they entered the second half, the course became increasingly intricate and demanding, testing each participant’s energy management. Obstacles like the “Atlas Stone” and “Olympus Overhaul” encouraged the young warriors to surpass their limits.
Despite the rainy weather, which brought humidity and slippery conditions that tested even the elite participants, the spirit of the young warriors remained unbroken. Seven-year-old Huang Junka showed remarkable resilience, stating, “This is my first Spartan Race, and the obstacle that stood out the most for me was the River Styx. The water was a bit cold, but I bravely made it through.”
This year’s Spartan Kids Race highlighted not just athletic competition, but also the importance of maintaining a positive mindset when facing challenges. Participants learned to tackle obstacles that might seem insurmountable with courage and intelligence.
Since its inception in 2016, the Spartan Race has become a popular global outdoor obstacle course event, attracting nearly one million participants across the Greater China region due to its challenging courses and diverse competition formats. In the final two months of 2024, Spartan events will continue in locations like Mogan Mountain, Shenzhen, and Huizhou, with registrations now open.