Nearly 15,000 runners from 21 countries and regions compete in Xiamen, East China's Fujian province on Nov 25. [Photo/taihainet.com]
Nearly 15,000 runners from 21 countries and regions competed in the Xiamen (Haicang) International Half Marathon 2018 in East China's Fujian province on Nov 25.
After a fiercely competitive race, Ethopian Bezabh Belay Tilahun won the men's half marathon with a time of 1 hour 1 minute and 11 seconds. In the women's race, Yimer Wude Ayalew also from Ethiopia claimed first place with a time of 1 hour 9 minutes and 34 seconds.
"Though I didn't break the race's record, I did achieve my personal best," said the men's champion in an interview after the race.
He was deeply impressed by Xiamen's clean air and hospitality and said that he would come back to the city again if there is a chance.
The Haicang half marathon's race track boasts scenic views and runners passed by the city's most picturesque sites and landmark buildings, including Blue Bay Square, Bell Tower, Xiamen Center and Haicang Bay Garden.
Nine ambulances, 15 automated external defibrillators (AED) and 30 medical aid riders were equipped at the scene to guarantee the safety of the runners.
Yimer Wude Ayalew from Ethiopia claims first place in the women's race with a time of 1 hour 9 minutes and 34 seconds at the Xiamen (Haicang) International Half Marathon 2018 held in Xiamen, Fujian province on Nov 25. [Photo/taihainet.com]
China has decided to extend its visa waiver policy to ordinary passport holders from Canada and the United Kingdom starting from Feb 17.
Forty-one new port-of-entry duty-free shops have been established nationwide, with Xiamen Xiang'an International Airport, Xiamen Wutong Passenger Wharf, and Xiamen International Cruise Center included on the list.
