The 2016 Xiamen International Marathon took place at the Xiamen Conference & Exhibition Center on Jan 2. A total of 48,642 athletes and amateurs took part in the marathon. Of the total, 27,186 people took part in the full marathon and 18,826 took part in the 5-km race.
Kenya’s Vincent Kipruto won the men's Marathon, setting a record of 02:10:18. He was satisfied with his score in the city and appreciated Xiamen’s climate.
Ethiopia's Workenesh Edesa crossed the line first in the women's race, setting a time of 02:24:00.
Athletes from Ethiopia shone at the event, occupying second to the sixth places in the Men’s race and first to the third in the Women’s race.
Supporting events were held on the same day, including the Cross-Straits Cities Invitational Marathon Tournament and the National College Students Invitational Marathon Tournament.
The Roller Skating 10-km Race and Wheelchair Half Marathon was not held this year.
Founded in 2003, the Xiamen International Marathon has become one of China’s most influential and world-renowned Marathons for its high competition level, large popularity and colorful supporting activities.
It was honored as IAAF Gold Label Road Race in 2007.
The marathon is held on the first Saturday of January every year.
China announced and implemented on May 15 a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.
China and Georgia are set to waive visa requirements for travelers starting May 28.
