Miss out on the Beijing Marathon? Here Are 3 Other Great Races Before Year’s End

When registration for the Beijing Marathon opened two weeks ago it attracted a whopping 100,000 runners for some 30,000 slots. Running a marathon in the Chinese capital is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many, but we're kind of over the cutthroat competition it triggers – and that's even before the actual race!

Luckily, with running's popularity in China growing at an incredible rate, there is no shortage of races to keep you occupied and motivated. Below, we've selected just a few that are not only less competitive than the marathon but are also set in positively stunning locations compared to the center of Beijing. These races follow routes that are close to nature and provide the perfect excuse for some autumn training. So, lace up and get out there!

Three Kingdoms Marathon – Sunday, Sep 22

This cross-country race takes place in Wucaiqianshan in Shunyi, a mountainous area home to numerous scenic spots and natural resorts that boast beautiful sights, especially as the leaves begin to show their lush autumnal colors. The route starts at Zigouyizhan, and traverses deeper into the nearby forest and hills, requiring the stamina to get through long stretches of climbs. Registration includes a free shuttle bus to and from Fengbo Subway. Half-marathon and 10km options available.

Race time: Sunday, Sep 22, 10am-4pm
Registration deadline: Sep 7
Fee: RMB 288 for 21km, RMB 158 for 10km

Register here.

Pinggu Leisure Half-Marathon – Sunday, Oct 13

The Pinggu Leisure Half-Marathon takes runners around Jinhaihu Lake in Pinggu District, 85km outside of Beijing proper. Covering an area of 6.5-square-miles, the lake has been dubbed "Little Beidaihe" for its beautiful seaside-like scenery. The race starts from Jinhai Nanlu and ends at the district’s Sports Stadium, a route that allows competitors to fully revel in the greenery that skirts the lake. Half-marathon, 10km, and 5km family run options available.

Race time: Sunday, Oct 13, 9.30am-12.30pm
Registration deadline: Sep 23
Fee: RMB 99 for half-marathon, RMB 50 for 10km, RMB 70 for family run (two persons)

Register here.

Fenghuangling Cross-Country Race – Saturday, Dec 21

By far the most grueling option on this list, the Fenghuangling Cross-Country Race pits runners against Fenghuangling AKA Phoenix Mountain, a national park located inside the Western Hill Farm in Haidian District. With a route that traverses reservoirs, temples, villages, and mountains, the race is known as one of the most challenging cross-country race routes in Asia. Couple that with the extreme coldness of the Beijing winter, and you see why Fenghuangling has become an annual pilgrim for diehard runners. Options include 50km, 27km, 10km, and 5km.

Race time: Saturday, Dec 21, 8.30am-9.30pm
Registration deadline: Nov 18
Fee: RMB 599 for 50km, RMB 499 for 27km, RMB 289 for 10km, and RMB 249 for 5km.

Register here.

READ: Beijing's Bike Polo Team Offers a New Way to Cycle

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Email: kuang@thebeijinger.com
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Photos: Iranshao, China Daily