International runners highlight passion, diversity and inclusion at Shanghai half marathon

Shanghai has committed to building itself into a global sports hub, with marathon playing an essential role during the process, and many other sports as well.

Avraam was echoed by Luka Milosavljevic, who created his second best record on Sunday.

"I can tell that sports in Shanghai is at a very high level, with many communities doing a lot of sports, such as cycling, running, and skiing, so I really enjoy doing these activities here," said Milosavljevic, who has lived and worked in Shanghai for two years.

"Marathon is a great way to build new connections with people that share the same interest."

Kenya's Roncer Konga, the competition's defending champion, took the men's title with a time of 1:01:07, while Ethiopia's Ftaw Zeray dominated women's race in her event debut, setting a new record of 1:06:36.

"It feels great to return to Shanghai and won again. The city's scenery is amazing and the atmosphere is great," Konga said.

China's Xu Shuangshuang finished third in women's race with a time of 1:11:07, earning a place on the podium, and Wang Congzheng was the best finisher among Chinese male athletes, achieving his personal best result of 1:03:21.

Li Junfeng contributed to the story