A quick video recap of the competition

On the morning of October 20th, the much anticipated 2019 Hangzhou Xianghu International Half Marathon kicked off in the Xianghu Scenic Area of Hangzhou. The competition consisted of two projects: a half marathon (21.0975 km) and a mini marathon (about 4.5 km), including 5,000 marathons in the half and 3,000 marathons in the mini marathon. The total prize money reached up to 210,200 yuan.

At eight o'clock, the starting gun went off and more than 8000 runners successively rushed out of the starting line to the track. The 8,000-year-old Xianghu is just like a fascinating picture, unfolding slowly with the steps of runners. They waved their arms, stepped forward and ran on the beautiful track.

The whole course connects a great number of main scenic spots of Xianghu, and thus participants can enjoy the scenery along the way during the running. It is worth mentioning that there are eight national day knowledge boards, designed by “In Zhejiang” international new media platform, besides the track in the slow life block. They not only enable Hangzhou citizens around learn more about the story behind the just passed National Day, but can also promote better understand of foreigners about Chinese history.

The competition for the men's half marathon champion was very fierce. At last, the player from Uganda, KATEREG GAJOHN, took the lead and won the men's championship in 1 hour, 3 minutes and 6 seconds. The first place for women was IMMACULATE CHEMTAI TAKWENYI from Kenya, with a score of 1 hour, 18 minutes and 39 seconds.

First place for men’s half marathon, KATEREG GAJOHN, from Uganda (Photo/ Wu You)

Second place for men’s half marathon, SIMON KIRVTHI MVTHOIVI, from Kenya (Photo/ Wu You)

Third place for men’s half marathon, JOSPHAT MVCHIRI MPAMBIRI, from Kenya (Photo/ Wu You)

First place for women’s half marathon, IMMACULATE CHEMTAI TAKWENYI, from Kenya (Photo/ Wu You)

Second place for women’s half marathon, Tang Hongfang, from China (Photo/ Wu You)

Third place for women’s half marathon, Wang Xiaoxia, from China (Photo/ Wu You)

In the interview, KATEREG GAJOHN, the winner of the men's team, said that he felt very happy for the result and thought the marathon's organization was very good. He also feels that China is a well-organized country and he likes China very much.

Marathon shows the sports spirit of challenging oneself, surpassing the limit, persevering and never giving up. Holding this event can not only enrich local people's sports and cultural life, but also let people around the world know Hangzhou, understand Hangzhou, and promote the further development of Hangzhou. 

(Executive Editor: Ke Ye)