Nanjing has fully embraced the “athletics mode” this March! At 7:30 AM on March 16, the 2025 Nanjing Half Marathon kicked off at the East Gate of Nanjing Olympic Sports Center, with 25,000 runners taking to the streets, measuring the city with their strides, and unleashing their energy and passion. As the World Athletics Indoor Championships Nanjing 25 approaches, the runners expressed their high anticipation: “Welcome to Nanjing!” “Let’s run into spring and into the ‘Nanjing's’ Cube’ together!”
Image Source: Organizing Committee
25,000 Runners Decode the City’s DNA with Their Footsteps
This event is hosted by the Nanjing Municipal People’s Government, organized by the Nanjing Sports Bureau and the Jianye District People’s Government, and operated by Nanjing Shanpao Sports Technology Co., Ltd. Notably, this is the first time in nearly three years that the Nanjing Half Marathon has ventured beyond Jiangxinzhou.
Image Source: Organizing Committee
This year’s half marathon course connects many iconic landmarks and popular photo spots, including Nanjing Financial City, Yuantong Business District, Nanjing International Expo Center, the Youth Olympic Twin Towers, Nanjing Eye Pedestrian Bridge, the Yangtze River Finless Porpoise Science and Education Center, and Xiaokending Lighthouse. The eco-friendly smart track, newly-upgraded route, and visual management system allow participants to enjoy the vibrant image of a modern international city center and the breathtaking views of the Yangtze River as they run.
At the event, 430 public security officers, 300 traffic police, 1,800 officers from Nanjing Police College, 700 security staff, and 39 firefighters were on hand to ensure the event’s safety. In total, 120 medical and nursing staff, 46 emergency runners, 100 emergency responders, 220 medical observation volunteers, 32 medical assistants, and 90 AEDs were stationed to ensure the athletes’ safe completion of the race and their safe return home. Additionally, 91 referees, 46 logistics staff, and 2,741 volunteers worked together to ensure that the competition ran fairly, efficiently, and smoothly.
“Although it’s very cold and windy today, I was still deeply moved when I arrived at the scene. The energy from everyone is incredible.” “I often run at places like Xuanwu Lake and Zhongshan Mausoleum in Nanjing, where there are lots of people and a great atmosphere. Running the half marathon today has been especially thrilling.” “The sports atmosphere here is fantastic! It feels wonderful to experience the city’s transformation while running!”... Many local runners expressed.
After an intense competition, Mueke Musyoka from Kenya claimed the men’s title with a time of 01:04:47. Kariuki Jimnah Kuria from Kenya and Di Jun from China finished second and third, with times of 01:06:06 and 01:06:22, respectively. Di Jun, a native of Nanjing, was once honored as the ambassador of road running in Jiangsu Province.
Running into Spring and the “Cube”in the Name of Athletics
Nanjing is the second Olympic city in China and has successfully hosted numerous international events, including the Asian Youth Games, Youth Olympic Games, World Speed Skating Championships, and the IAAF Challenge. From March 21 to 23, 2025, the World Athletics Indoor Championships will take place at the Indoor Athletics Arena of the Nanjing Sports Training Center, also known as the “Nanjing's Cube”. This will mark the first time China hosts the World Indoor Athletics Championships, and it will be the highest-level indoor athletics event held in China since the 2015 World Athletics Championships in Beijing.
Image Source: Organizing Committee
Many runners from other regions were also filled with enthusiasm, praising Nanjing and eagerly anticipating this top-tier international event. Five members of the Xiong’an New Area Running Team from Hebei arrived early at the starting point to warm up before entering the venue. They expressed their excitement for having won the lottery to participate and shared their fondness for Nanjing. “Nanjing is not only rich in ancient charm, but also boasts a modern atmosphere. We especially love the sports culture here.” They also mentioned that they enjoyed sightseeing at spots like the Confucius Temple the day before. A runner from Tianjin was also energized by the passionate atmosphere. “This is my second time in Nanjing. The city has a fantastic sports vibe, but its culture, geography, and more are also wonderful.”
“Let’s run into spring and into the ‘Nanjing's Cube’ together!” At the scene, many runners cheered together, eagerly looking forward to the upcoming World Athletics Indoor Championships Nanjing 25.
Image Source: Organizing Committee
It is reported that this top-tier event has brought together over 500 athletes from more than 120 countries and regions around the world. International athletics stars include Qatar’s high jump champion Mutaz Essa Barshim, shot put champion Sarah Mitton, Swedish athlete Armand Duplantis, and American athlete Grant Holloway. From the Chinese athletics team, there are Gong Lijiao, a renowned female shot put athlete with five Olympic appearances, Xie Zhenye, a leading male sprinter, Liu Junxi, a top male 60-meter hurdler, and Wu Yanni, a leading female 60-meter hurdler. These athletes will fiercely compete in 26 events, including the 60m, 1500m, 4x400m relay, pole vault, long jump, shot put, and more.
Nanjing, this vibrant sports city, is welcoming this prestigious competition with a fresh spirit. From March 21st to 23rd, let’s meet in Nanjing and witness the pinnacle of international athletics at the “Nanjing's Cube”!
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