Female runners dash out from the starting line. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

On the morning of May 11, the 2025 Hangzhou Women's Half Marathon kicked off with flair at Wulin Square in Gongshu district. Coinciding with Mother's Day, the event brought a special warmth as 12,000 female runners hit the picturesque West Lake course to celebrate femininity, strength, and resilience.

The event featured two categories: a 9.5-kilometer West Lake Loop ending at the Zhejiang Art Museum and a 21.0975-km half marathon finishing at the Hangzhou Grand Theater. Runners passed by scenic landmarks such as Broken Bridge, Su Causeway, and Leifeng Pagoda, while also glimpsing the modern skyline along the Qiantang River — merging the elegance of nature with urban vibrance.

Participants run along the Su Causeway over West Lake. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

The course served as a symbolic tribute to mothers, with West Lake's natural beauty acting as a heartfelt postcard of appreciation. A participant from Sichuan shared how meaningful it was to run in the city where her son is studying for a master's degree at Zhejiang University.

Adding to the emotional resonance, the Beautiful as Xizi parade group featured women from sectors like education, healthcare, and sports honoring motherhood and showcasing the diverse brilliance of women both on and off the track.

This year's race also introduced a new feature — 10 Comfort Bunnies, or female runners equipped with bestie bags containing items like energy gel, tissues, and feminine care products, ready to support fellow participants and foster a culture of mutual care.

The finish line greeted runners with cheerful, oversized flower inflatables — daisies, roses, and sunflowers — alongside photo zones and a rose petal ice bath.

The female runners. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]