Chongqing - The 2024 Chongqing Chang'an Automobile Marathon unfolded with splendor on March 24 at Haitang Yanyu Park, Nanbin Road. This event attracted 30,000 athletes from 426 cities across 26 countries, showcasing a diverse and inclusive athletic spirit.

On March 24, the 2024 Chongqing Marathon commenced splendidly at Haitang Yanyu Park. (Photo/Chongqing Marathon)

At this year's marathon, Josphat Kiptoo Boit from Kenya set a new benchmark in the men's marathon category, finishing in 2 hours, 7 minutes, and 52 seconds, surpassing the previous record established in 2017. Among Chinese participants, Liao Shunhu was the top performer in this category.

Kenya's Josphat Kiptoo Boit shattered the men's marathon record, securing victory. (Photo/Chongqing Marathon)

Tanzania's Jackline Juma Sakilu made headlines in the women's category by completing the race in 2 hours, 21 minutes, and 26 seconds, breaking the previous women's record at the Chongqing Marathon. Jiao Anjing shone as the top domestic female marathoner.

Tanzania's Jackline Juma Sakilu set a new record, triumphing in the women's category. (Photo/Chongqing Marathon)

The 2024 Chongqing Marathon featured two main events: the full marathon, covering 42.195 kilometers, and the mini-marathon, a 5-kilometer race. Both events started at Haitang Yanyu Park, with the mini-marathon finishing at the Chaotianmen Bridge. Each event welcomed 15,000 participants, totaling 30,000 runners, highlighting the marathon's broad appeal.

The 2024 Chongqing Marathon featured two events: a full and a mini-marathon. (Photo/Chongqing Marathon)

The marathon morning saw Nanbin Road and Babing Road filled with participants warming up, sharing tips, and adjusting their gear, illustrating the community and camaraderie that defines this event.

The Chongqing Marathon is a city-wide sporting event that encourages worldwide participation. (Photo/Chongqing Marathon)

Among the participants was Mr. Chen from Jiangsu Province, who was embarking on his first Chongqing Marathon. With a running history that began in 2007 and transitioned to marathons in 2014, Chen's journey symbolizes dedication to the sport. His goal was to finish with a respectable time, underscoring the personal achievements that contributed to the marathon's collective success.

Adding to the event's diversity, an eleven-year-old running enthusiast participated alongside two friends, demonstrating the inclusive nature of the marathon. Her practice sessions in her grandmother's courtyard, translating laps into approximately 100 meters, embody the youthful energy and passion that the Chongqing Marathon celebrates.