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The Guangzhou Marathon 2024 kicked off with a gunshot at 7:30 am on December 8. 26,000 runners competed in the 42.195-kilometer marathon. 

Gebise Lelisa Debele of Ethiopia won the event in 2:06:28, setting a new record for the Guangzhou Marathon and achieving his personal best. Chen Tianyu from Yunnan province won the sixth place in the event, thereby claiming the men's national championship. 

The 42.195-kilometer course connects iconic landmarks and cultural sites, weaving through historic arcade streets and a bustling modern CBD. Let's explore the highlights along the Guangzhou Marathon route! 

Sun Yat-sen University

Founded in 1924 by Sun Yat-sen, the leader of the fledgling democratic government of China, this prestigious university boasts the serene South Campus with historic architecture and lush greenery, echoing the stories of its century-old legacy.

(Photo: Zhang Guanjun/Nanfang Daily)

Memorial Museum of Generalissimo Sun Yat-sen's Mansion

Located on the southern bank of the Pearl River, the former site of Generalissimo Sun Yat-sen's Mansion has been transformed into a memorial museum. The complex comprises two Victorian-style buildings, displaying Guangzhou's history of the revolutionary era and offering insights into the life and great deeds of the forerunner of China's democratic revolution.

(Photo: Memorial Museum of Generalissimo Sun Yat-sen's Mansion)

Renmin Bridge

Renmin Bridge, built in 1967, was Guangzhou's first bridge over the Pearl River after the founding of the PRC in 1949. Linking Liwan and Haizhu districts, it provides some of the best sunset views of the river, with historic landmarks like the Guangdong Customs House visible from its vantage point.

(Photo: Guangzhou Marathon)

Dongshan Lake Park

Originally built in 1930, Dongshan Lake Park is a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Its shimmering lake, verdant trees, and charming pavilions make it a favorite spot for locals to relax and connect with nature.  

(Photo: Guangzhou Yuexiu Fabu)

Ersha Island

Encircled by the Pearl River, Ersha Island is a cultural oasis in Guangzhou. Home to art venues like the Xinghai Concert Hall, sports facilities, and lush landscapes, it offers a harmonious blend of culture and leisure.  

(Photo: Xiao Xiong/Nanfang Daily)

Haixinsha Asian Games Park

The marathon ends at Haixinsha, an island positioned on the new central axis of Guangzhou. This place was transformed into Haixinsha Asian Games Park after the 2010 Asian Games, offering the scenery of seasonal flowers and becoming a cultural and artistic hub.

(Photo: Zheng Xinqia/Nanfang Daily)