Editor's note: In 2023, rising Chinese sports stars illuminated their respective fields, creating a wave of celebrations with their victories and kindling anticipation for their future achievements. Here are some of the most heroic figures.

Yang Shaohui

China's thriving marathon scene celebrated another milestone after Yang Shaohui clocked a men's national record of 2:07:09 in a runner-up finish at 2023 Fukuoka International Marathon in Japan. The 31-year old finished second in the men's race, improving his personal best by 40 seconds and lagging one second behind winner Michael Githae of Kenya.

Yang broke the previous record of 2:07:30, set by his compatriot He Jie in this year's Wuxi Marathon.

Yang's record time quickly became the talk of China's vast marathon community on social media, with countless long-distance running enthusiasts expressing their congratulations.