At IMEXsourcing, we believe that how you start your year sets the tempo for the months to follow. On January 1st, 2026, while most were still shaking off the New Year’s Eve festivities, our team was at the starting line of the Qingdao New Year’s Run, ready to embrace the challenge.

The Route: 6.6km of Coastal Grit

The 6.6km course began at Huoju Avenue, stretching along the rugged beauty of the Qingdao coastline. We pushed past the iconic “May Wind” sculpture—a vibrant symbol of energy—and pressed on toward the “Between Heaven and Earth” monument before making the turn for home.

The conditions were far from easy. A biting winter wind whipped off the Yellow Sea, testing our resolve with every stride. But in the world of sourcing and supply chain, we are used to navigating headwinds; this was just another day at the office, only with better views.

Grit in the Flesh: A Lesson in Spirit

Just as we approached the race grounds, we witnessed a scene that perfectly captured the “Qingdao Spirit.” A local running club was out for their winter training—most of the men were running shirtless in the freezing wind. It was a powerful display of raw discipline and mental toughness. Seeing them reminded us that comfort is the enemy of growth. Their grit gave us an extra surge of adrenaline, reinforcing the idea that no matter how harsh the environment, success belongs to those who show up and give it their all.

One Team, Two Locations

While Frank, Eric, Charles, and Chloe were battling the winds in Qingdao, the IMEXsourcing spirit wasn’t confined to one city. Our colleague, Willian Sun, was away on a business trip, but he didn’t let the distance stop him. True to our culture of accountability, Willian laced up his shoes and completed his own New Year’s run solo at his location.

Distance might separate us geographically, but our goals and our pace remain perfectly aligned.

Looking Ahead

After crossing the finish line, the four of us gathered at the gate for a celebratory photo—tired, cold, but incredibly energized.

For IMEXsourcing, this run wasn’t just about the 6.6 kilometers. It was about momentum. We are heading into 2026 with the same endurance, discipline, and “shirtless-in-winter” grit we saw on the track.

Whatever the “headwinds” of the global market may bring this year, we are ready to run through them.