In 2004, Xiamen received the UN Habitat Scroll of Honor Award, an honor given to individuals and institutions instrumental in improving living conditions in urban centers around the world.

The well-preserved environment and beautiful natural landscape of the sub-tropical island also make it an ideal place for outdoor sports events.

Every year, the Xiamen International Marathon is held on the island's ring road that winds its way along the coastline. Held on the first Saturday every January, it is one of the top two marathons held in China.

The annual competition was first held in 2003 and sanctioned in 2007 as a Gold Label Road Race by the International Association of Athletics Federations. The competition is now renowned for its scenic seaside environment.

The race courses through many of the scenic sections of the city as runners pass Gulangyu Island, Xiamen University, Nanputuo Buddhist Temple and other famous spots of Xiamen.

The idea of the international competition came from a resident in Xiamen who wrote a letter to the local government in 2002 suggesting a marathon be held along Xiamen's beautiful seaside.

The first race in 2003 attracted 10,000 runners. In 2011, more than 64,000 professional and amateur competitors from 42 countries and regions took part.

The 2012 Xiamen International Marathon, which marks the 10th anniversary of the event, will be held on Jan 7, with the starting line at the Xiamen International Conference and Exhibition Center.

To date more than 35,000 runners have signed up, with 80,000 to 100,000 expected to participate, according to the local newspaper Xiamen Daily.

For registration information visit: www.xmim.org/en

(China Daily 01/02/2012 page12)