The gear for the trailwalk. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

The 2023 International (Hangzhou) Trailwalk Conference, with a whopping 15,000 participants, kicked off today, and the gear distribution is in full swing.

As the mercury in Hangzhou plummeted to -5°C today, the organizers ensured that the gear collection process and the freshly unpacked trailwalk equipment exuded a comforting warmth.

With a cold wave sweeping in, anyone venturing outdoors today undoubtedly wrapped themselves in the thickest down jackets. Even our reporter was concerned about potentially turning into a human popsicle while collecting gear at the Shangcheng District Sports Center located along the river.

To everyone's surprise, the gear collection area was a large white tent, providing a warm haven for the entire process.

Participants presented their ID and printed gear collection receipts to pick up their equipment at the designated windows for the 5km, 15km, and 30km categories.

In addition to the sports quick-dry shirt, bib, eco-friendly bag, disposable raincoat, and other essentials, participants received special winter trailwalking items like heat pads, ginger powder, and a thermal blanket.

Despite the chilly weather, Guo Haiwei from the West Lake Running Group immediately changed into the race T-shirt. Standing in front of a backdrop, he raised a thumbs-up and took a selfie, saying, "I usually stick to running, so a 15km trailwalk is a piece of cake."

The gear distribution for the 2023 International (Hangzhou) Trailwalk Conference will continue for two days. Participants, don't forget to collect your gear on the event day.

Guo Haiwei takes a photo in the race T-shirt. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]