The event is named in honour of Jianzhen, a Chinese monk from the city who propagated Buddhism in Japan in the 8th century.[1] The event was first held in 2006 and grew exponentially in its first six years: it gained IAAF Silver Label Road Race status in 2010 and began to attract elite and amateur runners alike.[2] Almost 3000 runners finished the half marathon in 2011,[3] while the introduction of a 10K fun run that year saw 25,000 runners take part in the day's event. The race is predominantly Chinese, although 230 foreign athletes were present in 2011.[4] East African athletes typically occupy the higher places in the elite races.[5]
The very flat, point-to-point course is certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races.[6] The city-centre course begins and ends at the Stadium of Yangzhou Sport Center and passes many of the city's landmarks, including the Wenchang Pavilion, Daming Temple and the Yangzhou Museum.[7]
The men's course record of 59:52 minutes (set in 2015 by Mosinet Geremew) is the fastest ever recorded in China. The women's record holder is Peres Jepchirchir, with her winning time of 1:07:21 from 2016.[8]
Past winners
Key:Course record
Zhou Chunxiu, the 2008 winner and a former women's course record holder.
