The rural landscape of China is experiencing a remarkable transformation through the introduction of village marathon events. These events are part of a broader strategy to revitalize rural areas across the country. Following the success of village soccer and basketball leagues in Guizhou Province, marathon events are now becoming a new impetus for rural revitalization in China.
The third Mount Fanjing Winter Marathon in Tongren city, Guizhou Province, recently saw nearly 10,000 participants, both domestic and international. This event is distinguished as the country’s first marathon track specifically designed for such a race, offering runners an enchanting journey through a landscape dotted with mountains, farmlands, and rivers.
Another upcoming event, the 2024 Yilong Lake Marathon, is scheduled for January 1, 2024, in Shiping county, Yunnan Province. This county, known as China’s “county of tofu” and “county of waxberry,” successfully attracted over 5,000 participants to its marathon this year, with its scenic track around Yilong Lake.
In Hunan Province, the rural charm of Yongzhou was on full display during the inaugural Yongzhou half marathon. Participants were rewarded with sweet pomelo, a local specialty, adding a unique touch to the event.
These rural marathons are part of a growing trend in China, where road running has become increasingly popular. The Chinese Athletics Association reports over 30 million road running enthusiasts nationwide. In the first half of 2023 alone, China hosted 303 road running events.
While international marathons in Beijing and Shanghai are well-known, rural marathons have gained popularity for their unique blend of picturesque landscapes and local cultural experiences. These events offer more than just a race; they provide a window into the rural life and customs of China.
He Yongqi, from the Bojie Sports and Culture Development Company, shared that the Mount Fanjing Winter Marathon attracted five foreign runners this year. He anticipates the unique rural setting will draw even more participants in the future.
These marathons are not just sporting events; they are integral to promoting sports tourism and mass fitness. For example, the Mount Fanjing Winter Marathon has become a key feature of Tongren’s strategy to showcase its allure globally.
Runners like Li Linlin find these rural marathons fascinating, offering a chance to experience local customs and scenic beauty. For many, the race is part of a broader journey, including exploring local attractions like Mount Fanjing, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2018. The event featured folk performances and cheerleaders in ethnic clothing, further enriching the experience.
Xu Guochen, a regular marathon runner from Beijing, notes that village marathons focus less on competition and more on enjoying rural life.
Local governments see these events as opportunities for economic and cultural development. The government of Shiping, for instance, is leveraging the Yilong Lake Marathon to promote high-quality development. The event is part of a larger plan to integrate sports with tourism and other industries, creating jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities for local communities.
These rural marathons in China represent a unique fusion of sports, tourism, and cultural exchange, playing a vital role in the nation’s rural revitalization efforts. They offer an immersive experience into the heart of China’s countryside, combining the thrill of competition with the joy of discovering local traditions and natural beauty.
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