Half marathon held in Shenyang

Scorching hot weather in Shenyang didn’t stop the enthusiasm of hundreds of runners last weekend; on the contrary, many relished the chance to test their will power and physical fitness.

When the temperature in Shenyang hit 37 C on June 18, the Puhe Half Marathon still went ahead as scheduled in Shenbei New Area. More than 3,000 running enthusiasts from across China gathered in Shenyang to compete in the tough race.

With long-distance running becoming increasingly popular in China, the Puhe event, sponsored by the government of Shenyang, provided participants with a unique experience as the route takes in the Puhe River, which has stunning, photogenic scenery.

Runners could choose between a half marathon (21 kilometer), an 11-km race, and the mini marathon (5 km).

After a fierce race, a runner from Kenya won first prize for the male half marathon with a time of 1hr and 8 min.

Compared with this kind of race held in other parts of China, the Puhe Half Marathon usually has a gentler pace and a larger number of amateur participants. Participants ranged from 4 to 80 years old, with the majority taking part in the 5-km race.

In addition, some cosplay players showed up at the race, entertaining some of the younger participants.

A player from Kenya crosses the finish line and wins first prize at the male half marathon held in Shenyang on June 18. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

A 60-year-old participant poses for a photograph with his grandson after finishing the 11-km race on June 18. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

A little boy runs the 5-km race with his mother on June 18. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

Cosplay players attend the Puhe half marathon held in Shenyang on June 18. [Photo/Chinanews.com]