The 2019 Taiyuan International Marathon -- which concluded in Taiyuan, capital city of North China’s Shanxi province on Sept 8 -- was an outstanding success, according to the organizers.

About 30,000 running enthusiasts from 30 countries and regions took part in the early-fall race, including 46 professional marathon athletes.

Runners were able to choose between a full marathon, half marathon, mini marathon and a family marathon.

After a fierce race, Marcus Kim from Kenya won first prize in the men’s full marathon with a time of 2hrs 9 min 43 sec; fellow Kenyan Lanas Yami Gourham triumphed in the women’s full marathon with a time of 2hrs 29 min 48 sec.

In addition, Chinese runner Guan Yousheng from Southwest China’s Guizhou province won the "China Speed Award" especially set up for Chinese participants with a time of 2 hrs 15 min 38 sec. He also achieved a new personal best time.

图片122.jpg

Marathon enthusiasts sprint off from the starting point of the 2019 Taiyuan International Marathon in Taiyuan, capital city of North China’s Shanxi province, on Sept 8. [Photo/Xinhua]

图片123.jpg

A happy marathoner shows his enthusiasm at the start of the 2019 Taiyuan International Marathon in Taiyuan on Sept 8. [Photo/Xinhua]

图片124.jpg

Marcus Kim from Kenya takes first in the men’s full marathon with a time of 2hrs 9 min 43 sec on Sept 8. [Photo/Xinhua]