More than 30,000 compete in Beijing Marathon

An estimated more than 30,000 runners ran through the capital’s streets Sunday morning in the 35th edition of the Beijing Marathon.Taobao agent

Runners excitedly start running at the 2015 Beijing Hyundai Beijing Marathon in Beijing on September 20, 2015.
It took more than 30 minutes for all of the runners to pass the starting line in Beijing's historic Qianmen Area. The competitors quickly made their way toward the westbound lanes of Chang'an Avenue, flanked by Tian'anmen Square on their left, and the Outer Gate of the Forbidden City on their right. Two of China's most famous landmarks provided a scenic backdrop for what would soon turn into a grueling journey to the finishing line at the Olympic Village.

Finally, Mariko Kipchumba, a running veteran from Kenya sped to the forefront among the men. The 41-year-old went on to break the tape in just under 2 hours and 11 minutes, his best of this year.
In the women's race, the title went to Betelhem Cherenet of Ethiopia, who took top honors in a little more than 2 hours and 27 minutes.

The morning's schedule also included several shorter-distance fun runs for those not inclined to log the entire 42 kilometers required of the main event.

The streets were run amok with costumed-runners, who channeled their energy to cosplay different characters.

The Beijing Marathon kicks off in Tiananmen Square today. While professional athletes were competing fiercely for medals, amateurs enjoyed the run in their own ways, for example, COSPLAY.

Silver medalist Berhanu Tolcha of Ethiopia (L), gold medalist Mariko Kipchumba of Kenya (C) and bronze medalist Wirimai Juwawo of Zimbabwe (R) pose on the podium during the medal ceremony for the 2015 Beijing Hyundai Beijing Marathon at Beijing Olympic Park on September 20, 2015 in Beijing, China.China Ebay