Mountains meet marathons in Guizhou

Runners in Guizhou are drawn by marathon courses and natural landscapes. [Photo/ddcpc website]

While summer is typically the off-season for marathons, Guizhou, blessed with superb ecology and cool weather, has become a hotbed for races. Among 11 national A-level marathons held from June to August, three were held in Guizhou. The combined participation in these three Guizhou events surpasses the total attendance of the other eight races nationwide.

Guizhou is transforming its mountainous terrain into a sports signature, infusing its marathons with rich natural landscapes and ethnic cultures. Throughout 2024, Guizhou hosted 24 marathons, attracting over 220,000 participants. This year witnessed explosive growth, with localities reporting plans for up to 50 marathon events, a staggering 108 percent year-on-year increase.

The 2024 Liupanshui Marathon drew a record-breaking 74,018 participants, shattering its decade-long attendance record. The race included many familiar faces alongside even more newcomers.

During the Huangguoshu Marathon, a robust security system was implemented by over 2,600 security personnel and volunteers. Medical support was extensive, with 28 stations along the course equipped with 35 AED defibrillators, 24 ambulances, and one medical observer every 200 meters.

Guizhou will debut the "Colorful Guizhou Marathon Super League" event to amplify the marathon brand effect. Initiatives integrating "marathons + culture," "marathons + tourism," and "marathons + commerce" promise both appeal and profitability.