Over 15,000 Running Enthusiasts Take Part in Chongqing Bishan Marathon

The 2024 Chongqing Bishan Marathon commenced at 8 a.m. on December 15, drawing over 15,000 running enthusiasts from more than 30 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities across China, in addition to participants from 11 other countries. Runners gathered along the scenic route to celebrate their passion for competition against the picturesque backdrop of Bishan.

Chongqing Bishan Marathon commences. Photo by the Organizing Committee.

Organized by the People's Government of Bishan District, the marathon featured three categories: a full marathon, a half marathon, and a fun run.

In a thrilling contest, Xu Ru'an secured victory in the men's marathon with a time of 2 hours, 19 minutes, and 27 seconds, while Ye Rui clinched the women's title at 2 hours, 43 minutes, and 21 seconds. In the half marathon, Wang Wanfu emerged as the men's champion, finishing in 1 hour, 8 minutes, and 15 seconds, while Pan Yuanchen took the women's title with a time of 1 hour, 17 minutes, and 12 seconds.

 Participants pass by the Zhuangyuan Bridge. Photo by the Organizing Committee.

In China, the Bishan Marathon is one of the few marathons themed by city parks. This year's race commenced at the People's Square in Bishan District and traversed iconic landmarks, including Xiuhu Park, Green Corridor along the Binan River, Guanyintang Wetland Park, and Fengxiang Lake Children's Park.

 Emma completes the half marathon. Photo by CINC.

Emma, a participant from France, said, "This is my first half marathon. When I felt I couldn't go on, the sight of the big trees along the route rejuvenated my spirit. I saw cheering crowds and cultural performances. The sounds of the instruments and the performers' enthusiasm were contagious, making me feel more motivated and excited to finish my half marathon."

Scenery along the route. Photo by the Organizing Committee.

"The event incorporated innovative organizational strategies and service models to elevate the competition quality and participant experience." According to an organizer's representative, the marathon featured 16 themed cheering stations and over 300 cheering volunteers. Unique intangible cultural heritage performances that combined Bishan Chuida (a kind of folk wind and percussion music) and cowhide drum manufacturing techniques created a vibrant sense of community among the runners. Additionally, race attire was upgraded to include branded apparel, arm sleeves, headbands featuring the Bishan Rabbit cultural tourism IP image, and delightful mystery bath towel boxes.

Marius completes the marathon. Photo by CINC.

Marius, another runner from France, said, "This is my first marathon, and the experience has been wonderful. Everything I needed was provided, and volunteers were there to guide me. I focused solely on my run, and I like those things in my race pack and finish pack, which added warmth and surprises."

The event also integrated advanced technology, introducing intelligent services that offered runners critical information through a dedicated event assistant to improve their experience. "We provided personalized short video services to capture runners' exciting moments utilizing camera technology, cloud computing, AI detection, and race number recognition," stated a representative from the Bishan District Commission of Culture and Tourism Development. The aim is to attract more visitors, boost consumption in dining, accommodation, and tourism, stimulate market vitality, and promote the fusion of sports + tourism + culture.

Zak (right) and his friend. Photo by CINC.

Zak from the UK said, "I have completed 11 marathons (including half marathons) in China, and this is my fifth race in Chongqing. I will definitely be back; see you next year!"