The 35th Dalian Marathon, held in northeast China's Liaoning Province, transformed the coastal city into a vibrant hub of athleticism and cultural exchange on Sunday. With 33,000 participants from 55 countries and regions, including 430 international athletes, the event underscored Asia's growing prominence in global sports tourism.
Global Participation
Runners from Ethiopia and Kenya dominated the competition, claiming top honors in both full and half marathon categories. Their achievements highlighted the event's competitive spirit while reinforcing Dalian's reputation for organizing world-class sporting events.
Cultural Fusion
Beyond the races, attendees experienced Dalian's rich heritage through local culinary showcases and traditional art exhibits along the marathon route. The integration of sports and tourism created opportunities for participants to engage with China's northeastern cultural identity.
Economic Momentum
The marathon boosted local businesses, with hospitality sectors reporting near-capacity bookings. Analysts note such events strengthen regional economic ties while showcasing investment opportunities in China's sports tourism infrastructure.
