Khalid Kamal Khalid Yaseen from Bahrain crosses the finishing line to win the men's full marathon in 2017 Wuxi Marathon held, Jiangsu province on March 19. [Photo provided by organizing committee of Wuxi Marathon]

A total of 30,000 runners from China and abroad braved heavy mid-morning showers to compete in the 2017 Wuxi Marathon on March 19.

Since its inception in 2014, the Wuxi Marathon has grown in stature year-on-year and is considered one of the most prestigious and well-organized races in China. The runners were spread across three separate races, with 18,000 running the full marathon (42.195 km), 7,000 taking part in the half-marathon (21.095 km), and 5,000 braving the mini marathon course (3.5 km).

The organizers hope that the three different races enable athletes of differing levels and aspirations to take part in the marathon experience.

After a fiercely competitive race, Khalid Kamal Khalid Yaseen from Bahrain won the men's full marathon with a time of 2 hours 13 minutes and 13 seconds. In the women's marathon, Ethopian Ayelu Abebe Hordofa claimed first place with a time of 2 hours 29 minutes and 17 seconds.

The race is well-known for its scenic views and runners pass through the Jiangsu province city's most picturesque sites including Turtle Head Isle Scenic Spot, Jiangnan University, Changguangxi Wetland Park, and Lihu Park.