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The vast, windswept expanse of the Inner Mongolian desert stretched before me, a sea of golden sand under an immense blue sky. The air crackled with anticipation, mingled with the faint grit of sand carried on a persistent breeze. This was the starting line of the 14th Red Bull Business School Desert Adventure (May 2-4, 2025), and I, Sheku Swaray from Sierra Leone, an MPA student at the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development (ISSCAD), Peking University, was about to represent BIMBA Peking University in one of the most physically demanding challenges of my life. Representing Group C in the grueling 33km run across three days, this was far more than a race; it was a testament to resilience, community, and the power of believing in oneself.

From Campus to Desert: An Unlikely Runner's Genesis

Just eight months prior, in September 2024, my feet were firmly planted on the bustling streets of Beijing, a new student embarking on a demanding academic journey at ISSCAD. Running competitively was a distant memory a relic of my undergraduate days nearly a decade ago, shelved since 2016. The notion of tackling a desert marathon seemed utterly implausible.

My journey back to running began with a conversation.Chitalu Seth Chisanga, a second year PhD student, mentioned theISSCAD Running Club. "Are you a runner, Sheku?" he asked. My hesitant reply about my long dormant past athleticism caught the ear of someone who would become pivotal:Professor Zhou Yongmei. It was her invitation, her unwavering belief in fostering well rounded development beyond academics, that drew me in.

The reality check came swiftly. My first training session on the iconic May Fourth track was humbling. Completing just 5km left my legs screaming in protest. The walk to class afterwards was a slow, painful shuffle. Doubt crept in. With the intense demands of the ISSCAD program, quitting the running club and focusing solely on studies seemed the logical, easier path.

But Professor Zhou’s infectious enthusiasm and constant motivation were a powerful counterforce. Supported by the camaraderie of the ISSCAD Running Team, I committed to the rigorous training scheduleevery Tuesday and Thursday without fail. The transformation, fueled by sheer determination and excellent coaching, was gradual but remarkable.

· September 2024:Struggling to finish 5km.

· End of October 2024:Consistently hitting 15km.

· End of November 2024:Achieving a personal best of 10km in just 38 minutes.

The desert run, once a fantasy, was now a tangible, daunting goal. The scale of the event itself was staggering: 80 universities represented, with a colossal field of 2300 runners in Group C alone. The challenge was set:Day 1: 12km, Day 2: 16km, Day 3: 5km.

Day 1: Sands of Surprise (12km)

The starting horn blasted, sending a wave of runners surging into the dunes. The sheer energy was electric. The desert immediately imposed its will: the relentless wind whipped sand into miniature storms, making sunglasses not an accessory, but essential armor against blinding grit. Finding a rhythm on the shifting sand required constant adjustment, a dance between power and finesse. Pushing through the challenging terrain, focusing on my training and Professor Zhou’s encouragement, I found myself moving strongly through the pack. Crossing the finish line of Day 1, I felt a surge of elation I had secured what felt like a 3rd place position! The slight sting of disappointment came later, learning this stellar result couldn't be officially recorded due to a missed timing checkpoint. Yet, the intrinsic knowledge of my performance, the feeling of conquering that first 12km against the desert and a field of thousands, was a powerful fuel for the days ahead.

Day 2: Endurance Tested (16km)

If Day 1 introduced the desert's fury, Day 2 demanded deep reserves of stamina. The 16km distance loomed large, compounded by the accumulated fatigue and the ever-present, energy-sapping sand. The wind remained a constant companion, a force to be reckoned with rather than ignored. This was a day for mental fortitude as much as physical strength. Recalling the long training runs with the ISSCAD team, the gradual build-up from 5km to 16km back in Beijing, kept me grounded. The breathtaking, desolate beauty of the landscape provided moments of awe amidst the struggle. Digging deep, I crossed the finish line with a solid 5th place position. The sense of accomplishment, especially knowing the distance matched my peak pre-event training, was immense. We were now battle-hardened desert runners.

Day 3: The Final Sprint & Bonds Forged (5km)

The final day, though the shortest at 5km, was no victory lap. Legs were heavy, bodies were tired, but spirits were high. The knowledge that this was the last push added a unique intensity. The sand still shifted, the wind still blew, but the finish line felt tangibly closer. Summoning the last reserves of energy, I pushed hard, navigating the final dunes and tracks. Crossing the line in 4th place for the day capped off an incredible performance across the three stages. The collective sigh of relief and eruption of cheers at the final finish line was unforgettable.

Beyond the Rankings: The True Desert Treasure

While the placements were personally gratifying, the most profound rewards of the Red Bull Desert Adventure lay beyond the race timings.

The Climate Challenge: Running in the desert was a unique trial. The wind was a constant, sculpting force, and the ever-present sand demanded constant vigilance and protection. It added a raw, elemental layer to the physical challenge.

The Warmth of Connection: My classmate and I were the only black participants from ISSCAD, a fact that unexpectedly became a bridge. The warmth and curiosity from fellow runners were overwhelming. We weren't just competitors; we were ambassadors, points of connection. "Everybody wanted to make us friends and also have a photo with us." This cultural exchange, the shared smiles and brief conversations amidst the dust, was deeply humbling and enriching. The event fostered a powerful sense of global camaraderie.

Team Spirit: Our able team leader, Isabella, was a rock throughout. Her unwavering support, practical advice, and constant encouragement were crucial, especially during the toughest moments. The ISSCAD team bond, forged in Beijing and solidified in the desert, was invaluable.

Conquering Dunes, Discovering Strength: A Journey of Gratitude

Standing atop the golden dunes of Inner Mongolia, representing BIMBA Peking University and ISSCAD, was an honor I will forever cherish. This remarkable journey transforming from a hesitant returnee to the track into a competitor conquering 33 kilometers in the Mongolian desert is one I could never have undertaken alone.

My deepest, most profound gratitude flows to Professor Zhou Yongmei. Her vision in establishing the ISSCAD Running Club, her personal invitation, and her relentless motivation formed the bedrock of this entire experience. She didn't just reintroduce me to running; she ushered me onto an incredible "big platform," consistently pushing me beyond my perceived limits and opening the door to an unforgettable adventure. Truly, "I really enjoy everything and I have a lot of fun," a feeling ignited by her belief and guidance.

Massive thanks also go to Chitalu Seth Chisanga for providing the initial spark that got me moving, to the entire ISSCAD Running Team for the shared sweat, laughter, and unwavering support throughout our training, and especially to Team Leader Issabell for her exceptional leadership on the ground. Her constant support and encouragement were vital fuel during the demanding race.

It saddens me deeply that my pressing study commitments in China mean I likely won't be able to participate next year. The haunting call of the desert, the unique thrill of the challenge, and the profound camaraderie forged under the relentless sun are incredibly alluring. "I wish I had another opportunity to participate next year." Yet, as I look back at those vast, golden sands, I realize I carry away far more than race memories. I carry the indelible knowledge that with dedication, the right support system, and belief ignited by inspiring mentors like Professor Zhou, seemingly impossible dunes both literal and metaphorical can be conquered.

The Red Bull Desert Adventure transcended a mere running race; it was a crucible for discovering profound resilience, embracing powerful global connections within the ISSCAD community, and proving that the greatest journeys often begin with a single step, or in my case, a hesitant shuffle back onto the track. The desert tested me relentlessly, and I am forever grateful for the unexpected strength I unearthed within myself amidst its vastness.

Conclusion: Wherever the Path Leads

This adventure stands as a vibrant reminder that growth rarely flourishes in comfort zones. From the familiar tracks of Beijing to the formidable dunes of Inner Mongolia, every step taught me that resilience is painstakingly built through consistent effort, invaluable mentorship, and the unwavering support of community. While my academic path may prevent me from lining up for next year’s race, the core lessons of the desert are now part of me: Believe steadfastly in your journey, trust the unfolding process even when the destination is unclear, and cherish the extraordinary people who lift you higher.

To Professor Zhou, Chitalu, Isabella, and every fellow runner who shared sweat, sand, and stories thank you. Thank you for profoundly showing me that the greatest adventures, the ones that reshape us, truly begin the moment we say “yes” to daunting new challenges.

I leave you with the powerful words of my mentor, Professor Zhou Yongmei, echoing the spirit of this unforgettable experience: “No Human is Limited.”