The Hood to Coast overnight relay makes its eagerly-awaited Chinese debut in July, with even seasoned marathoners readying themselves for an altogether different and intimidating long-distance challenge.

"This is not just a regular marathon," said Qu Tongxin, a first-time Hood to Coast competitor.

"I've been doing marathons for at least five years, but this race is something very different. We do not need someone to be a hero or a savior, because this is about teamwork. The lone wolf needs a pack to survive."

Launched in the US state of Oregon in 1992, the Hood to Coast is one of the longest and largest relays in the world, attracting around 18,000 participants annually.

Basketball legend Yao Ming's company Starz Sports has imported the franchise as the BMW Hood to Coast China relay, aka H2C China - a 175 km overnight competition set for July 8-9, featuring teams of five runners and a car.

Starting at Genting Resort, a skiing venue near 2022 Winter Olympics co-host city Zhangjiakou, Hebei province, the race promises to be one of the more scenic events on the calendar, traversing stunning mountain terrain en route to the finish line in the picturesque grasslands of Zhongdu, Zhangbei county.

"I'm a first-time runner," said Qin Yaoda, a marketing manager.

"I spend most of my time working, and so do most of my colleagues. So I teamed up with my colleagues to join the relay, instead of a regular marathon, because we can do this together.

"We'll run for health, the unity of our team and friendship."

In preparation for the grueling run, a meeting of team managers was held last Sunday in Beijing, advising them on track conditions, safety procedures and medical protocol.

Wang Jian, leader of the Sea Runners team, said: "The relay will tell whether you love or hate your teammates. Running is just our hobby.

"We're all from different occupations, and we started the team when we heard the world-renowned H2C was coming to China.

"The relay is a test of our team's cooperation."

Liu Jinhan, of the Legend of Masters team, said: "We have been participating in all kinds of relays and marathons, but this one is quite special.

"The key to finishing the race is to rely on your teammates. Also, we are here to promote the idea of a healthy life. More people should join us."

Dong Liqun, a Chinese-American who took up running four years ago, agrees.

"I'm 59 years old and they call me Uncle Wolf," said Dong. "I heard of the Hood to Coast in America, and I was excited to know it was coming to China, so I just had to sign up."

Safety first

In order to ensure the safety of all the participants in the Hood to Coast relay, a meeting of team managers was held last Sunday. All teams were briefed on course conditions and given tips about how the race integrates runners and automobiles.

Organizers also passed along medical tips for dealing with conditions ranging from dehydration to bone fractures and cardiovascular challenges.