This weekend, the Merrell Skyrunner® World Series heads to the high mountains of Sichuan for the Yading Skyrace, the ninth race of the 2026 season. Marking the series’ long-awaited return to China for the first time since 2019, the event promises a spectacular and demanding challenge on the global circuit.
Set in the breathtaking landscapes of Daocheng Yading, widely regarded as one of Asia’s most dramatic alpine regions, the Yading Skyrace stands out as the highest race in the series. Athletes will face a formidable test of endurance and altitude adaptation as the course climbs to a staggering 4,735 metres above sea level — pushing competitors to their physical and mental limits.
THE HIGHEST RACE OF THE SERIES
The 32 km point-to-point Skyrace® features over 2,800 metres of vertical gain, taking runners through remote Tibetan trails, vast high-altitude plateaus and rugged mountain terrain. Surrounded by sacred peaks and ever-changing weather conditions, the race delivers a unique combination of technical challenge and natural beauty.
With much of the Daocheng Yading region sitting between 3,000 and 4,000 metres, competitors must contend not only with steep ascents and exposed trails, but also with the effects of altitude, where oxygen is limited and pacing becomes critical. Success here demands careful strategy, efficient movement and strong acclimatisation, as much as raw athletic ability.
ELITE ATHLETES FROM AROUND THE WORLD GATHER IN YADING
Returning to the calendar after its last appearance in 2019, Yading adds a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation to the 2026 series as elite athletes from around the world gather for this iconic race. The elite field includes the following athletes:
Female:
Takako Takamura – JPN, team Nike ACG
Vanja Cnops – BEL, team T8
Svetlana Nurmukhametova
Ainara Alcuaz – ESP, team Basque EMF
Ainhoa Garikano – ESP, team Basque EMF
Sofi Cofre Saphier – CHL, team Adidas Terrex
Yujiao Jia – CHN
Anqi Hou – CHN
Male:
Weston Hill – NZL, team Merrell
Paul Ormaetxea – ESP, team Basque EMF
Oier Zubeldia – ESP, team Basque EMF
Liam McKenzie – AUS, team Merrell
Luis Ovalle – CHL, team Merrell
LinZhiShi Qi – CHN, team Kailas Fuga
Yaba Gengrang – CHN, team Pioneer Camp
Ji Duo – CHN, Hoka
With its combination of extreme altitude, technical terrain and unforgettable scenery, the Yading Skyrace is one race you don’t want to miss.
Follow all the action on the MSWS social channels on 20th of June from 5am local time.
