A total of 22,000 native runners take part in the 2020 Beverly Wuxi Marathon on Nov 1. [Photo provided to wuxinews.com.cn]

When the starting pistol sounded, 22,000 native runners taking part in the 2020 Beverly Wuxi Marathon pounded toward picturesque landscapes at 7:30 am on Nov 1.

The event, now in its 7th year, was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and as a result, only native participants were invited to the event to ensure safety.

Li Zicheng, who was also a winner of the 2015 Wuxi Marathon, emerged victorious for the men's full marathon with a time of 2 hours 14 minutes 52 seconds, while Li Dan won the women's full marathon with a time of 2 hours 33 minutes 16 seconds.

A total of 3,400 volunteers provided services for the runners and cheered them on during the race.

The annual marathon is known for its scenic route, which passes through several popular local scenic areas and attracts many runners from around the world every year.

This year's route passed through the Gonghuwan Wetland Park, where an experience and exhibition center for the Wuxi Marathon was also built inside at the 39.5-kilometer mark along the route. It opened to the public several days before the race.