Dion Leonard has run some of the most extreme races around the world, but the ultra-marathoner says he’s never seen anything quite like this. Earlier this summer, the Scotsman was competing in a grueling week-long run across China’s Gobi Desert when a friendly little dog started following him.
“She was looking up in my eyes and she just kept staring at me, she kept looking up at me, and I’m looking down at her thinking this little dog isn’t going to stay with me all day surely, but that’s exactly what she did,” said Leonard.
The stray – which Leonard named Gobi – stuck with him for days. They traveled over mountains, through scorching heat, 125 kilometers, all the way to the finish and a second-place medal.
“It was an amazing experience to run into the finish line with her, and my wife actually says to me, ‘It’s the only time I’ve ever seen you smile at the end of a race,'” said Leonard.
After the race Leonard knew he couldn’t leave his furry friend behind. He started “Bring Gobi Home,” a crowdfunding effort to raise enough money to bring the dog back with him to Scotland. It quickly became an international sensation.
“It’s awesome to see the support from all around the world and the notes and the e-mails and the messages we’re getting for it has just been incredible,” said Leonard.
Leonard has raised thousands of dollars from backers all around the world and is now waiting to officially adopt Gobi. Before that can happen, the dog must spend up to four months in quarantine. But Leonard’s hoping they will be returned in time for the holidays.
And there could be more racing ahead for Gobi.
“She’s going to definitely be out there wanting to compete and she’ll run every day if you allow her that’s the thing, she’s got a big heart,” said Leonard.
Leonard says he’s already looking forward to getting back on the trail with his new best friend.
