Peach flowers in full bloom, marathon in full swing

[video/wuxi.gov.cn]

The 2024 Yangshan Half Marathon took place on March 17 at Yangshan town in Wuxi, East China's Jiangsu province, attracting 5,000 runners who enjoyed the idyllic beauty of blossoming peach flowers and vibrant sportsmanship.

Athletes take part in the 2024 Yangshan Half Marathon in Wuxi, East China's Jiangsu province, on March 17. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

The race course showcased various iconic countryside landmarks and scenic areas, such as the Wisteria Garden, Peach Blossom Island, Peach Picking Garden, Agricultural Industrial Park, and Taoyuan Hulu Valley, promising participants a delightful visual and cultural experience as they competed.

Athletes take in countryside scenery amid blooming peach flowers. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

Along with the runners, their family members and friends were also invited to join the event, making it a memorable weekend getaway and a chance to feast on fresh vitality of spring and natural colors together.

Athletes run with their family members and friends at the 2024 Yangshan Half Marathon. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

This year's event, coinciding with the 28th China Yangshan Peach Blossom Festival, highlighted spring and peach-themed activities introduced by organizer and officials, allowing runners and tourists alike to explore the unique charm of the 'Peach Blossom Paradise'.

Yu Jiakai clinched the first place in the men's race with the time of 1:08:27, while Ni Zhiyan finished first in the women's category in 1:21:33.

Yu Jiakai finishes the 21-km 2024 Yangshan Half Marathon at 1:08:27, winning the event on March 17.[Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

Ni Zhiyan crosses the finish line at 1:21:33 during the event on March 17. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

Since its inception in 2017, the Yangshan Half Marathon has drawn more attention and growing popularity as an appealing event blending picturesque scenery, profound cultural heritage and considerate race services. This year's competition involved 18 pace setters, over 1,500 police officers and security personnel, 536 volunteers to ensure a smooth and safe race.

Peach blossoms abound in Yangshan, bonding an integrated development of economy, industry, tourism, talents and sporting events of the area, according to local government.