A letter dated December 3, 2002 from Mada, an ordinary Xiamen citizen, was the driving force behind the 1st Xiamen International Marathon on March 30, 2003. Xiamen Government attached great importance to Xiamen International Marathon, an event that became a famous sporting event in China after merely three years. It has become equally famous as the Beijing Marathon as it is held in the south of China in spring while Beijing Marathon is held in the north of China in autumn. Xiamen’s beautiful environment and road conditions satisfy the requirements of an Marathon.

The wide roads, flat and smooth terrain and wide green belts on both sides of the roads not only satisfy the requirements of the contest, but also make it convenient for spectators to enjoy it and interact with the athletes. The course of Xiamen International Marathon is mostly located on the coastal Huandao Road with picturesque sea views. Eight of Xiamen’s Top 20 famous scenic spots re located along the course and therefore it is honored as the most beautiful marathon course in the world.

Website: http://www.xmim.org

[Photo from xinhuanet.com]