On the morning of October 20, the 2024 Yantai Marathon kicked off, attracting nearly 20,000 runners from 15 countries and regions. Participants gathered in Yantai to forge friendships while enjoying the local seaside beauty and vibrant culture.
The theme of this year’s marathon was “Running for Love in Yantai,” featuring three events: the full marathon, half marathon, and a 5K fun run. The race began at the Coastal Square and the course showcased local landmarks such as Moon Bay, the East Fort, the Zhanqiao Pier, Haiyun Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinese Poppy Square, Yantai University, the Sports Park, Guandong River, the Natural Museum, Xin’an River, Bird and Fish River, and Horse Island, highlighting the city’s stunning scenery.
After a fiercely competitive race, Li Zicheng claimed victory in the men’s marathon with a time of 2 hours and 16 minutes, while Wang Shaoyan won the women’s marathon in 2 hours and 58 minutes. In the half marathon, Zhang Yikun finished first in the men’s category at 1 hour and 10 minutes, and Sun Zhongju emerged victorious in the women’s half marathon with a time of 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Along the route, various performance groups showcased traditional Chinese opera, ballet, stilt walking, martial arts, dragon dancing, and drumming to cheer on the runners. Participants enjoyed engaging with performers dressed as historical figures, while the cheers and encouragement from the crowd filled the air.
Notably, the racecourse featured refreshment stations offering local delicacies, including Yantai apples, Laiyang pears, mackerel dumplings, lion’s head fish meatballs, Fushan roasted chicken, sea cucumber buns, sea cucumber soup, and kelp noodles. This not only ensured that the runners could refuel but also introduced them to Yantai’s culinary specialties.
Additionally, in the post-race refreshment area, the organizing committee prepared a wine corridor where both domestic and international runners could savor Yantai’s fine wines, creating lasting memories that intertwined running with delightful flavors.
The 2024 Yantai Marathon is certified by the Chinese Athletics Association and organized by the Yantai Municipal Government.
