The 37th Mount Tai International Mountain Climbing Race kicks off on Sept 6. [Photo by Liang Ben/for chinadaily.com.cn]

On Sept 6, as the first rays of the sun pierced through the mist-shrouded peaks of Mount Tai, the 37th Mount Tai International Climbing Festival began in Tai'an, Shandong province.

Divided into three groups (young adults, adults, and seniors), the race gathered over 10,000 participants from every corner of the country, turning Mount Tai into a bustling hub of excitement and camaraderie.

In a nail-biting finish that left spectators breathless, Meng Guangfu and Zhu Bingying, won the men's and women's category of the young adults group by completing the grueling 8.6-kilometer ascent in 66 minutes and 74 minutes, respectively.

After clinching victory, Meng, from Guizhou province, shares with China Daily that he cannot help but feel that there's more for him to explore, and greater heights to climb. He hopes to get another chance to challenge himself again within the next year.

Meng Guangfu (middle) wins the men's category of the young adults group during the 37th Mount Tai International Climbing Festival. [Photo by Chen Yang/for chinadaily.com.cn]

Zhu, a climber from Henan province, has attended this competition twice before finally winning her brass ring. With a radiant smile, she attributed her success to a simple yet profound philosophy that this is not just a race; it's a form of exercise. She also recommends that other young adults incorporate regular workouts or exercise into their daily routines to maintain their fitness levels.

Zhou Ying, who won second place in the men's category of the young adults group, wasted no time after the competition and immediately began his body stretches. He later explains that this is his way of relaxing and managing pain. "Starting my stretches early not only allows me to stay limber, but also minimizes the strain on my muscles," Zhou shares with a grin.

Throughout the Mount Tai Climbing Race, climbers from varying backgrounds demonstrated unwavering determination and passion as they pursued their goal of a fit and healthy lifestyle.