Laishan emerges as hub of outdoor sporting events in Yantai

The Yantai Marathon was recently held in Laishan after a six-year hiatus.

The Yantai Marathon, proved to be wildly popular with running enthusiasts. This year's course took runners past prominent landmarks like the Fisherman's Wharf and gave them a glimpse of the European architecture in the city.

The 2023 Second Yantai Women's Marathon. [Photo by Gao Jing for chinadaily.com.cn]

Laishan district has in recent years successfully organized a diverse range of athletic events as well as mass sporting activities that have enhanced its reputation a hub for outdoor sporting events.

One of the ongoing events, the Village "BA" Basketball Tournament, which was organized by village groups, community organizations, and businesses, has effectively showcased the positive influence of sports in promoting rural vitalization.

Most of Laishan's outdoor sporting events take place in locations that offer views of its mountains and crystal-clear waters and allow participants to savor Shandong cuisine and explore unique cultural heritage products.

"We are committed to nurturing and establishing renowned outdoor sporting events in our district. Through the promotion and influence of these events, our goal is to enhance the city's image and inject new vitality into sports in Yantai," said Qu Kuihai, director of the Laishan District Sports Service Center. (Edited by Cai Liting)