Some 30,000 competitors taking part in the 2024 Baotou Marathon headed out on June 10 from the Baotou City Olympic Sports Center in Baotou city – located in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region.

The runners came from nine countries and regions – including the United Kingdom, Japan, Poland and Ethiopia – as well as various provinces and cities in China.

Runners eagerly head out after the starting gun sounds. [Photo/WeChat account of Baotou Daily]

After more than two hours of hard-fought competition, Ethiopian runners Getaneh Fekadu Wonafrash, Hirpha Temesgen Gonfa and Elema Melese Kuma took the top three spots in the men's full marathon. They finished with respective times of 2 hours 19 minutes and 47 seconds, 2 hours 20 minutes and 52 seconds and 2 hours 22 minutes and 12 seconds.

Ethiopian Getaneh Fekadu Wonafrash crosses the finishing line to win the men's full marathon. [Photo/WeChat account of Baotou Daily]

In the women's marathon, Ethiopian Woldegbriel Taemo Shumye won with a time of 2 hours 44 minutes and 24 seconds.

Chinese runner Zhong Jiameng secured second place with a time of 2 hours 47 minutes and Ethiopian runner Lemma Tiruwork Mekonnen took third place with a time of 2 hours 47 minutes and 30 seconds.

Hands held aloft in victory, Zhong Jiameng becomes the only Chinese winner of the full marathon. [Photo/WeChat account of Baotou Daily]

The 2024 Baotou Marathon comprised three events – a full marathon, a half marathon, and a fun run covering 10 kilometers. The course passed by notable city landmarks and scenic spots such as Arden Square, the Baogang Group's premises and the Baotou Museum.

To boost the experience of the competitors, the organizing committee also held various activities – including a sports industry promotion, an e-sports competition and a race photography contest.

The great support arrangements and the enthusiastic vibe are said to have enabled the runners from China and abroad to experience the full charms of Baotou during the marathon.