A total of 30,000 runners from across China and 26 athletes from seven countries raced along Fenhe River during the 2017 Taiyuan International Marathon in Taiyuan, capital of Shanxi province, Sept 10.

This year's event consisted of three parts, namely a full marathon (42.20 kilometers), half marathon, and mini marathon (4.22 kilometers) for participants of varying abilities.

Azmeraw Bekele Molalign from Ethiopia won the men's group with a time of 2 hr 12 min 49 sec in the full marathon. Chemtai Rionotukei from Kenya led the women's division with a time of 2:29:36 breaking the record of 2:29:52 held since Taiyuan international marathon was launched in 2010.

"The gentle running track and nice weather helps me to stay comfortable," said champion Chemtai Rionotukei who has taken part in five different marathons in China.

Better services were provided for runners to keep them safe and satisfied, including organizing a group of participants made up of doctors and nurses, and offering photo download services to participants for free.

Runners leave the starting line during the 2017 Taiyuan International Marathon, Taiyuan, capital of Shanxi province, Sept 10. [Photo/sxrb.com]

A runner waves and smiles during the 2017 Taiyuan International Marathon, Taiyuan, capital of Shanxi province, Sept 10. [Photo/Xinhua]