More than a thousand runners pounded the pavement around Songya Lake on Feb 18, taking part in Changsha county's third mini marathon.

Taking home first place, Zeng Wenbo, a Changsha local, finished the 10-kilometer course in 31 minutes 55 seconds.

"It is my first competition for the New Year and new personal best for me running at Songya Lake," said Zeng after the race.

Win or lose, all runners had a good time thanks to the clean environment and fresh air at Songya Lake.

Not only a test of physical strength, the event also raised money for charity with the organizers, Xingsha Times and property developer Country Garden, donating 1 yuan ($0.15) per runner who completed the course, towards building public reading rooms.

Runners set off at the 2017 Songya Lake Mini Marathon held in Changsha county on Feb 18. [Photo by Zhang Di/csxrmt.com]

Changsha-native Zeng Wenbo finishes the game in first place at the 2017 Songya Lake Mini Marathon held in Changsha county on Feb 18. [Photo by Zhang Di/csxrmt.com]