The 2016 Little Swan Round Lihu Lake International Half Marathon took place on Nov 20, attracting more than 10 thousand runners from over 20 countries.

The starter's pistol was heard at the Wuxi New Sports Center at 7:30 am. Runners from Kenya won both the men's title and the women's title. Runners Ngetich Steve Raswey and Sigisin Celestine Jebichiy were each awarded 10 thousand yuan ($1451) for their first place finishes.

Dong Shiyun, a nineteen-year-old Wuxi native, placed second in the women’s category. She started training for the marathon one year ago. “My goal is to have a great performance in a full marathon.” Dong said.

The top ten runners in both women's and men's categories will receive tickets to the 2017 Wuxi International Marathon.

The running route, approximately 21.1 kilo meters in length, passes through several of Wuxi's famed scenic spots, including the charming Lihu Park, the quaint Turtle Head Isle, the historic Baojie Bridge, the spectacular Wuxi Grand Theatre, and Jiangnan University.

In recent years the Wuxi marathon series, which includes a full marathon, a half marathon and mini races, has received a great deal of praise from Chinese and foreign runners alike. The marathons are considered to be some of the world's most beautiful routes, as recognized in 2015 when Wuxi placed fourth on the list of China's top marathons.

The runners set off as the marathon begins at 7:30 am, Nov 20. [Photo provided by Wechat account wxfb]

A runner on the wheelchair follows his competitors closely. [Photo provided by Wechat account wxfb]