2026 Outdoor Special Forces Eighth Guangzhou Mountain Challenge Race Lingtou Station (2026户外特工第八届广州山野挑战赛岭头站)

Set against the backdrop of Guangzhou's lush red tea plantations, the 8th edition of the Outdoor Commando Mountain Challenge at Lingtou Station is set to take place on October 25th. This year’s race offers runners a unique blend of scenic beauty and challenging terrain in the picturesque Red Tea Creative Park located within Lingtou Ancient Village in Huangpu District.
The event attracts up to 800 participants, with three distinct categories catering to various levels of experience: Challenge (35KM), Experience (24KM), and Joyful (10KM) routes. Early bird registration discounts are available until September 5th on a first-come-first-served basis.
The Challenge route kicks off at 7:30 AM, with runners tackling the full distance of 35 kilometers within a nine-and-a-half-hour window that includes over 2,115 meters in total elevation gain. This grueling course is expected to earn participants two ITRA points for their efforts.
For those seeking a more moderate challenge, the Experience route starts at 8:00 AM and covers an impressive distance of 23.9 kilometers within seven hours. With a cumulative climb of nearly 1,500 meters, this option still offers runners plenty to admire while providing a slightly less demanding experience.
The Joyful run begins at 8:30 AM for the shortest course of the day, stretching over 10.7 kilometers and climbing just under 460 vertical meters before reaching its three-and-a-half-hour deadline. Ideal for those looking to enjoy the scenic beauty without pushing their limits too far, this route offers a taste of what Lingtou has to offer.
Participants will find themselves enveloped in the morning mist as they set off early on race day. The air is filled with the distinctive aroma of red tea from the thousands of trees that surround them. As runners progress through the course, they’ll be treated to panoramic views and the unique atmosphere created by the blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage found within Lingtou Ancient Village.
The Red Tea Creative Park brings a vibrant energy to the area, with its bustling market stalls and traditional tea houses seamlessly integrating into the surrounding landscape. This setting provides an experience that is distinctly different from other races, offering runners not only challenging terrain but also a rich sensory journey through Guangzhou’s countryside.
Participants are encouraged to sign up early for guaranteed spots in this scenic event that promises adventure and breathtaking views at every turn.