“The Mongol rally is a thrilling, exciting, challenging and fashionable sports gathering,” said Liu Hongxing, deputy director of the Ordos tourism bureau.

“The Mongol rally in the Kubuqi Desert at the Qixing Lake tourism site (in May) will attract tourists and sport lovers, which will boost sport tourism,” he said in April.

“We hope that through our efforts, the sports industry can be a business card for the Kubuqi area and we can work out a greener, healthier and more sustainable development path.”

According to Liu, the Hangjinqi district, where the Kubuqi Desert is located, has a long history, splendid culture and diverse landscape. He added it has potential natural and cultural resources for use in expanding its sport tourism sector.