On Nov 3, the 2024 HLA Round Lihu Lake Half Marathon took place in Binhu district of Wuxi, Jiangsu province, featuring 20,000 runners from around the globe.
Participants run through the starting point of the 2024 HLA Round Lihu Lake Half Marathon in Binhu district of Wuxi, Jiangsu province, Nov 3. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
The event set a participation record, with 17,000 runners in the half marathon and 3,000 in the fun run. Zhang Zhihao and Ni Zhiyan claimed victory in the half marathon, finishing at 1:11:22 and 1:18:57, respectively.
This year's race featured a staggered start to improve the experience, with the first wave beginning at 7:30 am and the second at 7:50 am, allowing for a smoother kickoff.
Finishers received a commemorative medal inspired by the lake's ecology, featuring a white egret on the front, surrounded by rippling waves, rings, and fish scales. At the same time, the back showcases an arch bridge, highlighting local characteristics.
The commemorative medal of the event. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
The district also enhanced the experience with a cultural and tourism package, offering local snacks and beverages and a 50 percent discount on tickets to 15 local scenic spots. Participants could purchase up to three discounted tickets, encouraging them to share Wuxi's charm with friends and family.
Over 2,000 volunteers from local universities, along with nearly 2,000 security personnel and 500 medical staff, worked together to ensure the safety and smooth running of the race for all participants.
Volunteers provide drinking water to participants. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
With a stunning 108-kilometer shoreline along Taihu Lake, Binhu district has held numerous around-the-lake events, including the Lihu Lake Half Marathon, the Tour of Taihu Lake, and the Asia Triathlon Cup Wuxi. These events, blending sports, culture, and tourism, promote regional development and present the beauty of this lakeside area to the world.
