Lishui's Songyang county hosts an international half marathon on Nov 24, 2019. [Photo/songyang.zjim.org]

The 2019 Pastoral Songyang International Half Marathon staged a successful tournament with passion and diversity in Songyang county, Lishui, East China's Zhejiang province on Nov 24.

Runners taking part in the race came from more than 10 countries and regions.

Chinese runner Cao Tianxiang crosses the finish line first in the men's section, with a time of 01:8:56s. [Photo/songyang.zjim.org]

After a very competitive race, Chinese runner Cao Tianxiang took the title of men's champion with a time of 01:08:56s for the 21.09-kilometer men's half-marathon. Adamu Seble Melkam from Ethiopia won the women's event. 

The race went past many famous attractions in the county, such as Songyin Creek Scenic Area, Qinglongyan post and Dushan post.

"It's great that the track is up and down, with mountains surrounding the route," said Tulu Jima Germame, who was second in the men's section. “It's enjoyable, and I'd like to attend the competition next year."

The competition was hosted by the people's government of Songyang county and the Chinese Athletics Association.