Chongqing - On November 3, the Chongqing (Changjiahui) Half Marathon kicked off at Haitang Yanyu Park along Nanbin Road, attracting 25,000 runners from 18 countries and regions, including China, Germany, the UK, Italy, and Australia. Participants from 273 cities experienced the thrill of marathon racing while enjoying beautiful Chongqing's stunning landscapes and culture.

On November 3, 2024, the Chongqing (Changjiahui) Half Marathon kicked off at Haitang Yan Rain Park along Nanbin Road, attracting 25,000 runners from 18 countries and regions. (Photo/The event organizer)

The event featured two race categories: a half marathon (21.0975 KM) and a fun run (7.1 KM). With a total of 25,000 participants, the half marathon had 15,000 runners, while 10,000 joined the fun run. 

The course is located in the heart of the Changjiahui Scenic Area, bordered by the Yangtze River. (Photo/The event organizer)

The course is located in the heart of the Changjiahui Scenic Area, bordered by the Yangtze River, offering stunning views across to Chaotianmen and Jiangbeizui CBD. Backed by Nanshan Mountain, the route crosses six Yangtze River bridges and passes through landmarks such as Haitang Yanyu Park, the Yangtze River Cableway, Longmenhao Old Street, Xiahaoli Old Street, the Chongqing Palace Museum, the Chongqing Planning Exhibition Hall, and the Changjiahui Danzishi Old Street, as well as the Chongqing International Circus City. The course is not only beautiful and flat but also features minimal elevation change, making it one of the prime segments of the Chongqing Marathon route.

In the men's half marathon, Hong Yue claimed victory with a time of 1:05:10, followed by Zhang Xuekang in second place at 1:08:00 and Gao Jingsong taking third at 1:08:06.

In the men's half marathon, Hong Yue claimed victory with a time of 1:05:10, followed by Zhang Xuekang in second place at 1:08:00, and Gao Jingsong taking third at 1:08:06. (Photo/The event organizer)

In the women's half marathon, a new record was set as Ding Changqin finished in 1:10:47, breaking the previous record of 1:15:50 set by Wang Min last year. Liu Junhui and Fan Kaili secured second and third place at 1:16:52 and 1:18:19, respectively.

"The course was great, the weather was perfect, and the audience and fellow runners were very supportive," said Ding, highlighting these factors as key to her success. "It's a bit disappointing that I didn't break my personal best in the half marathon, so I'll definitely return to try again."

In the women's half marathon, a new record was set as Ding Changqin finished in 1:10:47, breaking the previous record of 1:15:50 set by Wang Min last year. (Photo/The event organizer)

As part of the Chongqing Marathon series, the Changjiahui Half Marathon is the only half marathon in the country that directly qualifies runners for the Chongqing Marathon. This year, the top 500 finishers in the men's and women's categories will earn a spot in the 2025 Chongqing Marathon.

To enhance the competitive experience and ensure participant satisfaction, this year's event introduced a staggered start, catering to elite runners while improving the experience for casual participants. 

Additionally, over 3,000 volunteers from eight universities and community teams were recruited to support the event. Through more than 20 systematic training sessions held before the race, a comprehensive service system was established to assist all participants effectively.