Participants pose for a group photo at Lishui station during the charity run on May 19. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

A five-kilometer charity run in honor of the 29th National Day for Helping the Disabled kicked off in 11 cities in East China's Zhejiang province on May 19, attracting over 5,000 enthusiastic runners and many disabled from across the province.

Organized by Zhejiang Daily Press Group and Zhejiang Radio & TV Group, the event aims to promote voluntary services for the disabled in Zhejiang province and encourage more people to participate in sports.

Running routes were set along the most distinctive greenways in the cities, including Hangzhou West Lake, Renhuang Mountain Scenic Area in Huzhou and Yinzhou park in Ningbo, so that runners can appreciate the beautiful landscapes of the province.

Runners perform warm-up exercises for a charity run in Jinhua, Zhejiang province on May 19. [Photo/zjim.org]

"I was touched by the charity running activity which raised awareness of the disabled. I hope more people can do their part to help those struggling with disability," said a participant of the run.

A fund of 400,000 yuan ($57,840) was donated by Chinese property developer Country Garden Holdings Co Ltd to the Zhejiang Foundation for Disabled Persons during the event.

The charity run marks the opening of the 2019 Zhejiang National Fitness Games. More sports activities featuring the scenic spots, culture, history, landmarks, and folk customs of Zhejiang province will be held later this year.

Runners take a selfie for a charity run in Quzhou, Zhejiang province on May 19. [Photo/zjim.org]

A fund of 400,000 yuan is donated by Chinese property developer Country Garden Holdings Co Ltd during a charity run in Zhejiang province on May 19. [Photo/zjim.org]