Published on: 2026-05-02
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Cholpon-Ata /Kyrgyzstan/, May 2 /Xinhua/ — The crystal-clear blue lake glistens under the rays of the May sun. Along its shore, people run, admiring the water and mountain peaks. These are participants of another international marathon, Run the Silk Road, organized by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
The marathon took place on Saturday in the town of Cholpon-Ata, Issyk-Kul region of Kyrgyzstan. One of the features of the event is that it is held at an altitude of 1633 meters above sea level, along Issyk-Kul. Issyk-Kul is one of the deepest and clearest lakes in the world, and local residents call it the pearl of Kyrgyzstan.
This year, about 3 thousand people from more than 20 countries and regions participated in the marathon. These were not only professional athletes but also just enthusiasts of an active lifestyle.
Before the start, a warm-up was conducted for the participants with professional trainers, and during the runs for fans and guests, an entertaining program was prepared. In the finish area, a professional sports masseur helped those in need to recover after the intensive run.
Marathon participants are people of all ages and fitness levels. On the running track, you could see families running together with children, and even parents with strollers. The audience was especially inspired by blind athletes who overcame the route while holding onto the rope of their guides—a true example of the strength of spirit and mutual support.
“This is an open platform: anyone willing can participate. The marathon has a qualification status, which provides the opportunity to qualify for major international competitions upon meeting the standards. This promotes the popularization of sports, as well as strengthens interaction between countries,” said the chief judge of the marathon, Andrey Nasetkin.
One of the participants is Chinese athlete Wan Linyin. She shared her excitement, as this was her first marathon abroad. “The altitude here is higher than where I usually train, and the noticeable increase in temperature tested my physical strength. But this really helps me gain experience for competitions,” she said.
After the race, she took first place in the full marathon competition over a distance of 42 km 195 m among women. “I am very glad to have the opportunity to share the charm of this sport with participants from other countries,” the girl said.
Another participant — Darya Belousova from Russia — noted that against the backdrop of a tense international situation, she especially enjoyed feeling the atmosphere of unity. “Sport, in my opinion, is beyond politics and nationalities — it really unites people. I am very glad to be here in Kyrgyzstan: I like the nature, the people, the very friendly atmosphere. We happened upon this event completely by chance, but we are very happy about it,” she shared.
“I am always impressed by people. I saw how participants ran out of hotels in the morning, did warm-ups, got ready. This is very responsible and correct. Everyone approached this in an organized, cultured way, beautifully equipped. It pleases me that children also participate. And, of course, the nature of Issyk-Kul itself is my biggest impression,” shared participant from Kyrgyzstan, Mairaabat Kochetkova.
The whole marathon was filled with a warm, friendly, and genuinely happy atmosphere. Smiles, words of support, and joy at the finish united the participants more strongly than any results. It was a celebration where everyone felt part of a larger and inspiring community.
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