More than 300 people join the stair race at the 13th CCTV Tower Climbing Competition.[Photo: Amway]

The 13th CCTV Tower Stair Race sponsored by Amway Corporation was held in Beijing Saturday morning, November 3rd, 2007. More than three hundred people joined in the event, mounting the 1597 stairs of the 225 meter high tower.

Xing Ruling, an energetic and smiling 44 year old, won the women's race with a time of 12 minutes, 27 seconds. This was her sixth time as stair race champion since she first participated in 2001.

Preparing for the challenge is an uphill battle.

"I have insisted on running 10 km and mountain climbing every morning since 2001. Different events like the International Marathon and Mountain Climbing are my favorites. Sports take up a big part of my life. Whenever there is a chance, I run instead of walk."

This is similar to Li Guilan. This 48-year-old runner-up has benefited greatly from years of exercise, which gives her a good complexion and a joyful heart.

"It's thanks to years of exercise! I have been engaged in running for 13 years which energizes my life and work. Winning the race is an extra bonus; being healthier and making new friends via various games bring us all great fun. I hope that more citizens can join us."

16-year-old Zhao Weinan was probably the shortest competitor among other boys his age, but he was among the fastest runners in the teenage group. A bit shy when faced with the press, he offered these few words to sum up his pure love for running.

"Running makes me happy!"