The 2019 Harbin International Marathon – which concluded in Harbin, capital city of Northeast China’s Heilongjiang province on Aug 25 – was an outstanding success, according to the organizers.

About 30,000 running enthusiasts from 30 countries and regions took part in the early-fall race, including 299 professional athletes.

With long-distance running becoming increasingly popular in China, the Harbin event -- sponsored by the government of Harbin, the Heilongjiang Sports Bureau and the China Track and Field Association -- provided participants with a unique experience. That’s because the route takes in the majestic Songhua River and Sun Island, which both have stunning, photogenic scenery.

Organizers said the sponsors believe the marathon will help Harbin promote its reputation as a tourist city.

Runners were able to choose between a full marathon, a half marathon and a mini marathon. It was the first time that the number of full marathon participants topped 10,000.

After a fierce race, Stanley Kiprotic Bate from Kenya won first prize in the men’s full marathon with a time of 2hrs 13 min 36 sec; Kenyan runner Ruth Wetshila Kalanza won first prize for the women’s full marathon with a time of 2hrs 34 min 44 sec.

Runners cheerfully wave at the start of the 2019 Harbin International Marathon in Harbin on Aug 25. [Photo/Xinhua]

A drone takes in the mass body of runners at the starting point of the 2019 Harbin International Marathon on Aug 25. [Photo/Xinhua]