Runners set off at 8:00 am in the 2018 Beverly Round Lihu Lake
International Half Marathon in Binhu district. [Photo provided to
chinadaily.com.cn]
Runners from all over the world will compete in the 2019 Beverly Round Lihu Lake International Half Marathon in Binhu district, Wuxi, Jiangsu province on Nov 3. The event will be hosted by the Chinese Athletic Association and the Binhu district government.
Information about the event, as well as the medal designs, were revealed at a news conference on Oct 28.
The event consists of two competitions – a 21.1-kilometer half marathon for 10,000 runners and a 5-kilometer mini marathon for 3,000 runners – which start at 8:00 am.
The half marathon will start at the Wuxi Sports Center, and runners will journey around the ever-popular Lihu Lake before making their way to the finish line at Jiangnan University.
The annual race was awarded a Gold Label by the Chinese Athletic Association this year in recognition of its status as one of the nation's top road races. In addition, its course, which passes through core scenic spots in Binhu district, including Lihu park and Yuantouzhu, was voted the most beautiful course of 2016.
Over 20,000 people registered for this year's half marathon, twice the allotted number of participants, meaning straws had to be drawn to decide who would be able to participate.
Three thousand people signed up for the mini-marathon within two days, 57 percent of which were women.
The top eight male runners and top eight female runners in the half marathon will win prize money, with first-place runners receiving 10,000 yuan ($1,415.49).
The marathon committee has recruited and trained 1,364 volunteers and cheerleaders, and will provide sufficient medical treatment for every runner. It has also applied intelligent technology, such as face recognition and mini apps, to ensure the event goes smoothly.
The medals for this year's marathon are inspired by the autumn scenery of Lihu Lake. [Photo/WeChat account: wxbhfb]
