The second "Happy Running in Shinan" concluded on Oct 25 with a 10-kilometer race along Qingdao's most photographed shoreline. Runners passed Taipingjiao Park, No 2, and No 3 Bathing Beaches, and finished beneath the golden plane trees of Badaguan, a part promoters describe as "the most poetic coastline".

Guo Yanpeng won the elite men's division, finishing in 37 minutes and 24 seconds, just one second ahead of Feng Changlu. Tang Quan secured third place with a time of 40 minutes and 20 seconds. Families and casual runners followed in an "Autumn Fun Run", transforming the promenade into a seaside fitness festival.

Organizers maintained Shinan's "sport-plus-tourism" theme: the starting line's arch was draped in burnt-orange to reflect the season, and every finisher received a stainless-steel osmanthus-flower medal that doubles as a bottle-opener – an instant hit on social media.

Launched in 2024, the series has staged five seasonal events, including a women's cherry-blossom run and a midsummer night race on Fushan Mountain, attracting nearly 5,000 participants. District officials plan to expand the "Four-Season Happy Running" concept, using distinctive scenery to promote year-round wellness and cultural tourism.

A race organized by the Shinan district follows a course that links Qingdao's iconic shoreline sights. [Photo/WeChat account: qdweishinan]