The Zuohai · 2025 Fuzhou Marathon kicks off in Fuzhou on the morning of Dec 14. [Photo provided to gofujian.com]

The Zuohai · 2025 Fuzhou Marathon commenced at Wuyi Square in Fuzhou on the morning of Dec 14, attracting 35,000 runners and infusing the city with a dynamic energy.

Among the participants, 20,000 took on the full marathon while 15,000 ran the half marathon. Notably, 70.3 percent of runners came from outside Fuzhou, with 45.4 percent traveling from outside Fujian province, highlighting the event's extensive appeal.

This year's Fuzhou Marathon, which has been certified as a World Athletics Elite Label Road Race and a Class A1 event by the Chinese Athletics Association, featured comprehensive upgrades in organization, runner services, cultural and tourism integration, and technological support.

The course blended iconic landmarks with optimized segments, offering a unique "run to explore the city" experience. Starting at Wuyi Square, the route crossed the Minjiang River via Jiefang Bridge and passed cultural highlights including Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, Shangxia Hang Historical and Cultural Block, the Heart of Minjiang River, and Yantai Mountain, before finishing at the Fuzhou Strait International Conference and Exhibition Center.

Enriching the participant experience, the event incorporated interactive activities such as a "Collecting Blessings" campaign inspired by local "Fu (Blessing)" culture. The organizing committee also launched tailored "running and sightseeing" routes and lined the course with live performances, from Min Opera and palm puppetry to tai chi and lion dances, blending tradition with modern charm to create a dynamic cultural journey for all.