The 11th Conference of Bijie Tourism Industry Development and the 7th China International Camping Congress kicked off in Dafang county, Bijie city, Guizhou province on Aug 19.

Supported by the General Administration of Sport and organized by the county government, the congress is a national fitness activity involving sports, outdoor exercise, leisure tourism, and ethnic culture activities.

After the opening ceremony, more than 500 athletes from inside and outside the province started their 30-kilometer mountain marathon, and over one thousand hikers participated in the 12-kilometer hiking race.

Li Yongzhong and Jiang Xilan won the men's and women's marathon races, respectively, while Li Yinfa and Wa Shuo took gold for the men's and women's hiking races, respectively.

The event will reportedly continue for a week. In addition to the marathon and hiking race, a variety of other exciting activities, including a cycling race, motorhome exhibition, and balloon performance, will also be featured during the event.

The 7th China International Camping Congress kicks off in Dafang county, Bijie city, Guizhou province on Aug 19. [Photo/xinhuanet.com]

Li Yongzhong crosses the finish line and wins the men's marathon race at the 7th China International Camping Congress in Dafang county, Bijie city, Guizhou province on Aug 19. [Photo/xinhuanet.com]

Participants of the 12-kilometer hiking race trudge to the finish line at the 7th China International Camping Congress in Dafang county, Bijie city, Guizhou province, on Aug 19. [Photo/xinhuanet.com]