The Chengdu Marathon begins in Chengdu, Southwest China’s Sichuan province, at 7:30 a.m. Sunday after being suspended last year due to Covid. Photo: VCG

A runner jumps during the race. This year’s marathon was limited to people living in Chengdu. The event’s organizer also capped the number of participants at 30,000. Photo: VCG

A spectator cheers on the runners. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

Runners had to provide valid negative Covid-19 test results for three consecutive days and to complete Covid-19 vaccinations to participate. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

Runners pick up water at a supply station. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

Runners get sprayed with a pain relieving agent on the sidelines. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

A guide leads participants in warm up exercises before the race begins. Started in 2017, the event is the first and the only marathon in China to become a candidate race for the Abbott World Marathon Majors, which consists of the world’s six most renowned marathons. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

People take the subway to the marathon. The local government provided free public transportation to the race’s staff and participants on Sunday. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin