Intl marathon marches through Guangzhou

A runner dressed as Super Mario gives the thumbs-up while taking part in the Guangzhou Marathon on Dec 10. [Photo/southcn.com] 

Themed "Renowned City, Harmony and Health", the Guangzhou Marathon, a glamorous name card for the Guangdong capital, hit the streets of the city on Dec 10, promoting fitness and healthy lifestyles.

Nearly 30,000 runners from 48 countries across the world took part in the event with 18,000 of which contesting the full marathon and the rest running the half marathon.

The course of the Guangzhou Marathon, starting from Tianhe Sports Center, is set alongside the Pearl River and streams by sites with unique Lingnan culture and the most time-honored scenic spots.

After fierce competition, Dickson Kipsang from Kenya and Rahama Tusa from Ethiopia were crowned champions in the men's and women's full marathons respectively. For the half marathon, Bian Qi and Yin Xiaoli took home first places in the men's and women's events.

According to the organizers, the champions of the events will be granted prizes of $10,000. 

Runners sprint to cross the finish line in the men's half marathon. [Photo/southcn.com]