Breaking the event record & A New Brotherhood is Born
Ultra Gobi 2025 — Men’s Podium Decided
The top three finishers of the Ultra Gobi 400km have been confirmed, with all three athletes delivering extraordinary performances in this year’s grueling race across the Gobi Desert.
Cody Poskin (Bib 236, USA)
Cody Poskin claimed the Ultra Gobi 400km championship title, crossing the finish line in 64 hours, 49 minutes, and 32 seconds. His exceptional performance broke the event record, earning him the prestigious title of “Guanjun Marshall.”
Jovica Spajić (Bib 240, Serbia)
Jovica Spajić secured second place with a finish time of 68 hours, 20 minutes, and 38 seconds, and was honored with the title of “Cheji Marshall.”
Aaron Kubala (Bib 234, USA)
Aaron Kubala rounded out the men’s podium, finishing in 68 hours, 28 minutes, and 38 seconds, and was awarded the title of “Zhenjun Marshall.”
Meanwhile, Zheng Junyue (Bib 230, China) made a strong push in the latter stages of the race, overtaking Ni Yusheng to temporarily move into 5th place overall.
A New Brotherhood at Ultra Gobi
Jovica Spajić (Serbia) and Aaron Kubala (USA) finished the race together, placing second and third respectively, but their journey became much more than a battle for podium positions.
The two athletes teamed up at Checkpoint 14 / Rest Point 4, located at the 161 km mark. Kubala had reached the checkpoint with a slight lead and was preparing to leave when Spajić arrived.
“Shall we run together?” the Serbian asked.
“How long do you need to get ready again?” the American replied.
“Five minutes.”
And so began a partnership that would last for the next two days and 240 kilometers, laying the foundation for a lifelong friendship.
“We became brothers,” Spajić declared.
“We experienced highs and lows at different times and helped each other out of the pain cave,” said Kubala.
“Aaron led the way through the nights, and when he was in trouble, I was there for him. I didn’t want to leave him,” Spajić added.
In such a competitive race as the Ultra Gobi 400, the two had to maintain a relentless pace to hold off Sangé Sherpa, who was both kilometres away and yet dangerously close behind.
“It was an emotional journey and a true adventure. Now I have a new brother. During our joint efforts, everything came naturally; nothing was forced. Our teamwork was a gift from God,” said Spajić.
“We ran together for hours without talking. Everything was relaxed, and we enjoyed every moment.”
Kubala reflected on the shared experience:
“The sunrises and sunsets were exceptional, and I felt so well supported by my family and girlfriend, even though they were far away.”
Spajić expressed pride in representing Serbia on the global stage through this prestigious event:
“This race is tough. The scenery is wonderful, and it’s worth seeing — but you really have to be well prepared to finish it.”
