Running for the Axis

Runners gathered at the archery tower at Beijing's Zhengyangmen Gate on Aug 16 for a mini marathon event along the Beijing Central Axis.

The event was hosted by the Beijing Central Axis Protection Foundation and the sports data platform Joyrun, to celebrate the inscription of the axis on the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 27.

Joining in the run were representatives from different organizations and groups, including the Beijing Municipal Office for Conservation and Management of Beijing Central Axis, the Beijing No 3 Middle School, the China National Offshore Oil Corporation, running clubs and social media influencers.

"This event allowed runners to experience the Beijing Central Axis up close and promoted a healthy and positive sport. Furthermore, it expressed our joy over the successful inscription of the Central Axis, and promoted its historical and cultural values through a modern and dynamic approach," said Chu Jianhao, deputy director of the Beijing Municipal Office for Conservation and Management of Beijing Central Axis.

The route extended from the archery tower, running south through Qianmen Street, and concluded at Yongdingmen Gate.

The run was the debut of a series of sports activities centered around the Beijing Central Axis to engage more residents through online and offline activities.