Running the world

Imagine running across steep terrain in the wilderness overnight? Facing prolonged darkness, unforeseen dangers, and the ultimate test of your physical endurance — all by yourself.

Chi Lingjie, a 35-year-old female runner from Shandong province, has embraced and completed such challenges time and again.

In late March, Chi claimed victory in the women's category of the 168-kilometer trail race at the 2026 Mt Gaoligong Ultra, a long-distance trail running event held in the mountains of Tengchong, Yunnan province.

This was her third attempt at the race. The first time, she had to withdraw due to a sprained ankle, and in her second attempt, she dropped out after experiencing hematuria. Nevertheless, Chi didn't give up — a characteristic that has defined the decadelong journey she has taken to become a professional runner.

Chi's talent for long-distance running, discovered in middle school, helped her gain entry to a reputable high school and later a university, eventually leading to a job at a Shandong tax bureau.

However, in 2016, she left her job and moved to Beijing to chase her dream. A year later, Chi embarked on her career in outdoor sports.

The journey, though, wasn't always smooth. It wasn't until 2021 that her marathon career, literally, got on track.

Throughout the trail running journey that followed, Chi was continually inspired by Yao Miao, often hailed as China's "Queen of Trail Running", describing her as "a strong and distinctive young woman".

In 2024, Chi established a trail running training camp in Kunming, Yunnan province, to inspire and empower other women.

"Many mothers bring their children to train here, and single women come as well, choosing to make this place a spiritual haven. Together, they strive to achieve their running goals and treat this place as a home," Chi said.