Female runners from 30 provinces and autonomous regions across China take part in the 2023 Hangzhou Women's Half Marathon on May 7. [Photo/tianmunews.com]

The 2023 Hangzhou Women's Half Marathon started with a gunshot at Wulin Square at 7 am on May 7, local media outlets reported.

With the misty scenery of West Lake, female runners from 30 provinces and autonomous regions across China ran with passion and love in their hearts.

As the first women's half marathon held in Hangzhou, the race route linked together famous spots around West Lake, such as the Broken Bridge, Su Causeway, Bai Causeway, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and the Leifeng Pagoda. The half marathon route also passed through Yuhuangshan Road and Nanfu Road along the Qiantang River, showcasing the magnificent riverside scenery.

Starting from the bustling landmark of Wulin Square and entering the picturesque West Lake, runners can experience a wonderful journey of "one poetic city and one picturesque road."

It wasn't just the scenery that was beautiful, the runners themselves were as well, as the event was exclusively for women, including the competitors, official pacers, medical staff, and traffic control personnel.

Lu Ying won first place in the half marathon with a time of 1 hour 15 minutes and 38 seconds, followed by Xu Bingjie in second place with a time of 1 hour 16 minutes and 7 seconds, while Tang Xiaofang took third place with a time of 1 hour 21 minutes and 50 seconds.

The sports event attracts several foreign participants. [Photo/tianmunews.com]