The HKUST EMBA and MBA teams successfully completed the 20th Ultra Gobi Challenge (Gobi 20) in late September. Led by our Business School’s Acting Dean Prof. HUI Kai-Lung, and Associate Dean Prof. FONG Yuk Fai, over 70 elite participants took on the vast deserts of Dunhuang, conquering a demanding 120-kilometer course with a strong team spirit.
The challenge tested participants’ physical endurance under extreme temperatures, amid rocky terrain and fierce sandstorms. It was the mental resilience and immense support we provided one another that led to our success. During the event, leaders participated alongside team members, fostering camaraderie and shared determination. In the same spirit, an EMBA student offered help to a fellow competitor from another University to overcome vision difficulties, showing that sportsmanship transcends boundaries.
After four days of intense competition, HKUST Business School won the prestigious Shackleton Award as all team members completed the challenge injury-free. This accomplishment was attributed to the team’s rigorous preparation, strong teamwork, and exceptional coaching from alumni who participated in previous Gobi Challenges.
“Together we embark, together we overcome”: the Gobi 20 journey has left a lasting imprint of concerted efforts and perseverance.