The opening ceremony for the 2024 China Kubuqi Desert Off-Road Race is held on Aug 22. [Photo/WeChat Account of Hanggin Banner]

The 2024 China Kubuqi Desert Off-Road Race and the China Cross-Country Rally Championship Hanggin Banner Stage roared to life in Hanggin Banner of Ordos on Aug 22.

This year's events have drawn 29 teams, 69 vehicles and 138 drivers and co-drivers from all over China, eager to tackle the formidable course and showcase their prowess.

The participating vehicles line up, waiting to start. [Photo/WeChat Account of Hanggin Banner]

Spanning four thrilling days, the events feature a variety of challenging stages, including a short-course qualifying race and the iconic Kubuqi Desert stage.

The race covers an overall distance of approximately 1,000 kilometers, with around 600 km dedicated to competitive stages. The terrain is a demanding mix of 60 percent desert and 40 percent riverbed gravel, providing a true test of skill and endurance.

A vehicle sets off from the starting line. [Photo/WeChat Account of Hanggin Banner]