Young runners cheer their victory, January 1, 2011, photo from Xinhua.

On the first day of 2011, Chamdo celebrated the New Year by running its 27th Race. Over 500 people took part in the race, including officials of different ethnic groups, workers, local students, soldiers, etc.

It has become a new custom for the local government to organize various sports events during holidays, such as the New Year's Day, the Spring Festival and the Tibetan New Year to celebrate the festivals and increase local people’s awareness about physical exercises. 

Runners are ready on the tracks, January 1, 2011, photo from Xinhua.

Participants from the local armed police compete in the New Year's race circling Chamdo, January 1, 2011, photo from Xinhua.