The Run for Fun 2024 saw over 200 Chinese and foreign residents of Shekou participate in races at Shenzhen Bay Park on April 20.

The activity, jointly organized by the Shekou Management and Service Center for Expats and Ecole Francaise Internationale de Shenzhen, was part of the Chinese & French Artists Exchange Program Season III series.

An expat rushes past the finish line during the Run for Fun event on April 20.  Courtesy of the Shekou Management and Service Center for Expats

The races, which began on the western side of Shenzhen Bay Park and proceeded to the eastern Sunrise Theater, included 2-km, 5-km, and 10-km routes for both men’s and women’s groups. There were also prizes for the top three children and family runners.

Royet Thomas, from France, secured first place in the men’s 10-km race.

“It was well-organized. The track was nice, and I knew it so well for running it almost daily. Great atmosphere and weather, lots of fun with kids, friends. Great team of volunteers. Everything was perfect,” said Thomas.

Royet Thomas poses for a photo with children at the event.

He also added that it was a good event to commemorate the 60-year-long diplomatic relationship between France and China.

Shtanko Nataliia, from Ukraine, came in first place in the women’s 2-km race.

“It’s amazing to win! I didn’t even expect that at all! My first first prize and my first time running a competition. It really was a run for fun!” said Nataliia.

2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, and the Olympics will be held in Paris this year.

The Run for Fun 2024 aimed to promote the Olympic concepts of participation, inclusiveness, equality, unity, and sustainable development. It also sought to enrich and diversify the lives of Shekou residents by facilitating sports-based cultural exchanges between Chinese and foreign residents, according to the organizers.