The 2024 Jinta County City Mini-Marathon event in Jiuquan, Gansu province. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]

On Jan 2, 2024, in Jinta county of Jiuquan, Gansu province, a city mini-marathon kicked off. More than 600 running enthusiasts joined the race, embarking on a courageous physical and mental journey.

Jiuquan is a key prefecture-level city located in the northwesternmost part of Gansu province. It serves as a vital transportation hub connecting the central plains to the western regions of China, while also standing as an influential city along the famed Silk Road.