CHONGQING (CQNEWS) -- At 7:30 AM on March 2, a sharp gunshot echoed through the city, signaling the start of the 2025 Chongqing Marathon! With the city waking up to the energy of the event, 35,000 runners from 26 countries and regions gathered in Chongqing, embarking on a journey of determination and spirit as they ran into the morning light of spring. The starting point at Haitang Yanyu Park along the Nanbin Road was immediately filled with cheers, footsteps, and the rhythm of eager hearts.

This year’s event attracted runners from 406 cities, with 25,000 participants in the marathon and 10,000 in the mini-marathon, making it the largest in the history of the Chongqing Marathon. The participants ranged from 8-month-old infants to 83-year-old seniors. Among the marathon runners, 4,920 had achieved their personal bests within 3 hours in the past two years. In addition, a number of elite international marathoners, including Su Guoxiong, Peng Jianhua, Yang Dinghong, Dou Faxian, and Pan Sufang, competed -fiercely along the banks of the Yangtze River.

This year’s course retained its classic route. The 42.195 km marathon began at Haitang Yanyu Park, passing through iconic landmarks such as Dongyuan 1891, the Memorial Hall of the Southward Relocation of the Palace Museum, Ciyun Temple, Zhonglou Square, the Chongqing Planning Exhibition Gallery, and the former site of the French Naval Barracks, before returning to Haitang Park. At every turn, the city was alive with the cheers and applause of citizens. The breathtaking views of the Yangtze River, the city’s mountainous landscape, and the modern urban skyline all merged beautifully, showcasing the warmth and charm of Chongqing.

To further enhance the runners’ experience, the organizing committee partnered with different brands, universities, running clubs, communities, and businesses to set up 53 music cheer stations along the racecourse. Over 5,000 cheerleaders rallied the runners with singing, drumming, chanting, and aerobics, providing them with much-needed energy and encouragement. Notably, the Changan Automobile Music Cheer Station featured two humanoid robots, blending technology and innovation with the race and offering participants a unique interactive experience. (Translated by Yuki, Fathom Language Limited)