Baoding attracts 9,000 runners for the 2023 Baoding Half Marathon

The 2023 Baoding Half Marathon held in Baoding, North China's Hebei province attracted more than 9,000 runners from home and abroad to take part in the competition along a scenic and recreational running track on Sunday.

The marathon course, set along a water system around the city, showcased the magnificent scenery of Baoding, a city that's about 150 kilometers southwest of downtown Beijing.

With various sports venues and theme parks along the route, runners were treated to a picturesque landscape combining flower seas and cheering teams on both sides.

"Locals in Baoding are very passionate. Their cheers and support along the route were incredibly motivating," Gao Jingfan, a participant from Beijing, said after the run, adding that racing in such a beautiful place is exhilarating.

In the end, Chinese runner Zhang Yue clinched the first place in the men's race, while Fipsand David and Farivfi Peter Ndegwa from Kenya secured the second and third positions.

In addition to the half marathon, the city also held mini running events on Sunday which were open to the public.

Among them, a wheelchair racing team composed of 15 enthusiasts with disabilities measured the track using their wheels.

By establishing itself as a city of sports, Baoding has attracted more attention and participation in sporting events, injecting new vitality into the city's sports and economic development, according to local government.