(CHINA DAILY/ANN)-- The first Myanmar Run was held in Bagan on Sunday, attracting over 300 foreign and local participants comprising corporations, running enthusiasts and the local community.

Organized by China Daily and RVIPS Publications, two race events — the 10 km Challenge and 5 km Fun Run —took place, with runners appreciating the breathtaking sights and culture of Bagan from start to finish.

U Myat Thu, minister of planning and finance of the Mandalay Region Government, and U Maung Maung Kyaw, director-general of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, officiated at the starting ceremony of the two races, which started at Ananda Pagoda, close to the famous Tharabha Gate in Old Bagan, at 6:15 am.

Positioned as an International Friendship Run, the event was aimed at promoting the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as a healthy lifestyle and friendship.

It also supported tourism development in Myanmar, with international runners from 15 countries coming to Bagan, Myanmar’s second World Heritage site by UNESCO, for a weekend of sporting adventure.

A total of 5 million Myanmar kyats (around US$3,313) were raised through participant registration fees and channeled towards Bagan Heritage and Sustainable Development, the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, Bagan Plastic Campaign, Bagan Guide Association and Ananda Pagoda Board of Trustees to promote tourism development in the country.

“The first-ever Myanmar Run event in Bagan was a resounding success, with hundreds enjoying their run during sunrise in beautiful Bagan,” said Zhou Li, editorial board member of China Daily Group and publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily Asia Pacific. “As the sport of running becomes more popular across the country, we will continue to promote friendship and a healthy lifestyle through events such as this.”