Runners cross the starting line during the 2024 Wuxi Marathon. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
With the firing of the starting gun, the 2024 Wuxi Marathon kicked off in Wuxi, Jiangsu province on March 24, drawing about 33,000 runners from 48 countries and regions.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this year's Wuxi Marathon also served as a trial for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and part of China's National Marathon Championships and the Grand Canal Marathon Series. Over 260,000 people signed up for the event, a twenty-fold increase compared to 2014 and a new record for marathons in China.
The popularity of the Wuxi Marathon partly stems from its flat course with minimal inclines. It's an ideal choice for both first-time runners and seasoned athletes.
He Jie (left) finishes the race in 2:06:57, breaking the Chinese men's marathon record. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
This year's marathon witnessed the birth of several records. He Jie smashed the Chinese men's marathon record in 2:06:57. Ethiopian runner Tadu Abate Dedm won the men's race with a time of 2:06:18, and Veronicah Njeri Maina from Kenya clinched the women's title in 2:24:46, both of which were records for the event. A total of 3,423 runners completed the race in under three hours, also breaking the Chinese record.
Participants pass through Yuantouzhu scenic area, also known as Turtle Head Isle. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
The scenic route of the Wuxi Marathon also earned praise. Passing by landmarks such as Lihu Lake, Yuantouzhu, Shangxian River Wetland Park, and Gonghuwan Wetland Park, the marathon showcased the city's picturesque springtime scenery.
Luo Ruichun, a 58-year-old runner from Shanghai who achieved his personal best with a time of 3:05:11, gave a thumbs-up for the event: "It has been five years since my previous personal best. The flat course, beautiful scenery throughout the route, and the support from volunteers all played an important role in my success."
Marathon organizers ensured a seamless experience for participants with professional and attentive services. Starting a month prior to the race, participants received over 20 text messages from the organizing committee, offering comprehensive details ranging from transportation and race packet pickup to route information and weather forecasts. Over 6,500 volunteers and 4,100 security personnel contributed to the smooth running of the event, while nearly 1,200 medical personnel ensured the safety of all participants.
