A marathon relay was held in Xiangshan county, Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province from Feb 19 to 20, in celebration of the 19th Asian Games. [Photo/Xiangshan Fabu]

In celebration of the 19th Asian Games, which will begin in Sept in Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang province, ­a marathon relay was held in Xiangshan county in Ningbo from Feb 19 to 20.

During the event, participants were divided into two groups, with each group setting out from Xiangshan Renmin Square on the morning of Feb 19 to run along different routes. They ended at the Xiangshan Sailing Center and Banbianshan Beach Volleyball Center, venues for the 19th Asian Games, respectively, after passing through 18 towns, townships and subdistricts in Xiangshan. The marathon relay lasted 32 hours and covered a distance of 269 kilometers.

Nineteen rest stops, entitled "Asian Games Cheering Stops" were set up along the way. Every time the groups arrived at a stop, they left mascots of the 19th Asian Games . Intangible cultural heritage performances, such as lion and dragon dances, were also held at the stops to cheer on the participants.

Chai Lina is a runner who participated in the event with her friends. "It's relaxing to run and enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way," said Chai.

Chai was also impressed by the considerate rest stops and services offered by the volunteers.