Minnesotan returns, hoping to promote China-US ties

When Evan Kail first visited China last year, he had no idea his 30-day trip would turn into a three-month journey of discovery and cultural exchange. He traveled across the country exploring various cities, and even found himself onstage at China Central Television's Spring Festival Gala on Chinese New Year's Eve.

Returning to China in March, he knew this visit would take him even further — more places to explore, more stories to uncover.

"I'm here to build a bridge between the United States and China," says the 36-year-old pawnshop owner from the US state of Minnesota.

Kail first received publicity on Chinese social media in 2022 when he donated a photo album that documented criminal acts by the Japanese army in China during the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) to the Chinese Consulate in Chicago.

"My first trip was not only about introducing myself to China but also about showcasing the World War II history that I have helped educate the world about. I wanted to visit the historical sites myself and pay my respects to the people of Nanjing," Kail says.

During that visit, he realized how meaningful the experience was, sensing a greater purpose in his connection with China.

"I'm still going to be showcasing World War II history — I made a promise to the people of Nanjing that every Dec 13, I will be in that city to pay my respects," he says.

The Nanjing Massacre took place on Dec 13,1937, when Japanese troops captured the then capital.

"But now, I'm also thinking about what else I can do here. How can I contribute to promoting tourism in China and encouraging more Americans to visit, so they can come and see for themselves and better understand the Chinese people?"

With this second visit, Kail sees a new chapter unfolding. "This trip is about turning the page — moving beyond just World War II history and focusing on China as a whole, exploring it, and sharing my experiences with the West."

In mid-March, Kail visited Dehua county, Fujian province, a town named a World Craft City for Porcelain by the World Crafts Council affiliated with UNESCO in 2015.When he donated the photo album in 2022, the Chinese Consulate in Chicago presented him with a national gift — Xi Shang Mei Shao (a magpie on top of a plum blossom branch pattern) porcelain — along with a letter of appreciation. Dehua is the birthplace of this prestigious ceramic art.

Recalling the moment he received the gift, Kail was struck by its beauty. "I didn't know how it was made, but the craftsmanship must be incredibly complex," he says.

During his visit, Kail immersed himself in the art of porcelain-making, trying his hand at traditional techniques such as hand-throwing pottery, lighting a dragon kiln, and witnessing the kiln opening process.

It was a wonderful and deeply meaningful experience. Touching and shaping the clay with his own hands was both fascinating and challenging and it gave him a greater understanding and respect for Dehua's ceramic culture, he says.

The following weekend, Kail traveled to Shenzhen, Guangdong province, to take on a Spartan Race. He dove into his first-ever Spartan Race in Shenzhen with no hesitation — no second thoughts, no preparation, just a simple request: "Bring me my shoes and shirt."

His trainer, 34-year-old Roman Dogush from Russia, who ran alongside him, was impressed. "This was Kail's first race. I know he does some sports, but he had never done an obstacle course race like Spartan," Dogush says. "And this one in China isn't easy — there are a lot of hills, which makes it much harder than running on a flat surface."

Despite the heat and exhaustion, Kail powered through the grueling two-hour, 5-kilometer race, tackling obstacles, wading through mud, and pushing his limits. Even when he couldn't complete an obstacle, he accepted the penalty burpees without complaint.

"He did very well. He didn't give up," Dogush says. "A true Spartan has to be disciplined, persistent, and supportive of others. Kail has all these qualities — he's a real Spartan."

Dogush, who has been coaching Spartan racers for four years and runs his own gym in Shenzhen, has witnessed the sport's growth in the city, attracting both locals and expatriates. Kail also noticed the enthusiasm for fitness, seeing similarities between China and the US.

"I know plenty of young people in America do this or similar activities. So, I saw a lot of young people participating, and honestly, it looked just like it would in America," Kail says. "There were also many international participants, which was great to see. It was an inclusive event — I wasn't the only American running today. It was a lot of fun."

Kail's endurance is no accident. He first took up running at age 15, spontaneously deciding to train one summer. At first, he struggled to complete a mile, but by the end of the season, he was running six. That determination has stayed with him ever since.

"Once you come to a Spartan Race, you're a Spartan," Kail says. "You've taken on the challenge, pushed yourself, and accomplished something meaningful. And maybe, when life throws challenges your way, you can look back at this moment and remind yourself — if you conquered this, you can do anything."