"Due to the pandemic, it's really not easy for all the runners, organizers and volunteers to gather here for the events. This is a memorable experience for all of us," said Liu Hui, who has served as a volunteer at the event for several years.

This month's relay was the second Hood to Coast staged in China this year following an August relay in Zhangjiakou, where 2,500 runners from 500 teams took on a 145.6-km course from the grasslands of Senado Field to the mountainous terrain of Wanlong Paradise Resort.

The series debuted in China at Zhangjiakou in 2017, while the race first visited Hainan in 2019. The original Hood to Coast, founded in 1982, takes place in the US state of Oregon every August. The race is now established as a firm favorite for runners of all levels and backgrounds in China.

Local governments are hugely supportive of the relay as it helps boost the local economy and tourism, and promotes sports participation.

"The BMW Hood to Coast has developed a great reputation over the past four years in Hainan, and each edition attracts the attention of the Chinese running community. The continuous success of the event helps the growth of the national fitness campaign in Hainan. It also boosts the sports tourism sector in the province," said Yang Xinli, the deputy director of the tourism, culture, radio and television bureau of Hainan province.

shifutian@chinadaily.com.cn