Two runners running in a grassy, hilly environment

    The Paths to Gongga

    Sichuanese runners Geng Rang Ya Ba and Zheng Junyue journey to the sacred heart of the province’s stunning Daxue Shan mountain range.

    Stories of Endurance and Devotion

    In the eighth episode of Breaking Trails, runners Geng Rang Ya Ba and Zheng Junyue trail the foothills of Mount Gongga, Sichuan Province, reflecting how trail running entered their lives and quickly changed it for the better.

    Geng Rang Ya Ba

    Hailing from rural Hongyuan County, high up in the mountains of Sichuan, Ran was inspired to take up running in 2024 after seeing an athlete from Lhasa break China’s half-marathon record. When he’s not out exploring his local trails, 22-year-old Rang spends most of his time working on his family’s yak farm.

    Zheng Junyue

    A trail runner and designer from Sichuan, Junyue is known for her fearless spirit and love of the mountains. A two-time Chengdu Trail 100+ champion, she blends endurance with creativity—whether racing ultras, competing in triathlons, or simply escaping to the mountains to support her mental health.

    Explore the Film Series
    Two runners going up a rocky incline

    The Paths to Gongga

    Geng Rang Ya Ba & Zheng Junyue

    Sichuanese runners Geng Rang Ya Ba and Zheng Junyue find solace in Mount Gongga’s epic foothills.

    Josh Mock and Aum Gahndi hug after a run

    Love and Legacy

    Aum Gandhi & Josh Mock

    Aum Gandhi and Josh Mock reflect on their inspiring journeys during a cross-city run.

    Taro Tamai & Mami Tezuka walking up a snowy mountainside

    In a World of Snow

    Taro Tamai & Mami Tezuka

    Snowboarder Taro Tamai and skater Mami Tezuka find common ground on Hokkaido’s backcountry slopes.

    Adam Campbell and Sandy Ward backcountry skiing

    Lessons from the Land

    Adam Campbell & Sandy Ward

    Mountain athlete Adam Campbell and splitboard guide Sandy Ward form a bond in Canada’s backcountry.

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