March 11, 2004

The 2004 Xiamen International Marathon Race will be held on March 27, 2004 in Xiamen, Fujian. It's an annual high level international competition sponsored by China Track and Field Association and Xiamen Municipal Government. This year's marathon race is also China's tryout for the Athen Olympic Games, and the 2004 China National Marathon Championship. More fierce competitions and more splendid performances at higher levels are expected during the race.

The race is designed for 15,000 people, among them several athletes ranking within world's top 20 in 2003 will be invited. The race will include 5-kilometer Race, 10-kilometer Race, Half Course Marathon and Whole Course Marathon. There will be four rewards: Rewards for different places, Rewards for different levels, World's Best Record Award and Rewards for teams. CCTV 5 the sports channel will live-broadcast the race. For more details about the race please visit the website of the 2004 Xiamen International Marathon Race: www.xmim.org

Entrusted by the Media Center of the Organizing Committee of the Marathon, Xiamen Foreign Affairs Office invites you to cover the race during March 25 to March 28 (Reception time is March 25). The Media Center of the Organizing Committee will provide accommodation and transportation in Xiamen. Please give us your reply ASAP and make sure notice us about your flight number and arrival time. One photo is needed for making the Press Card.

Contact Xiame FAO: Mr. Chen Xiaoqiang / Cheng Ming

Tel: 0592-5095554 Fax: 0592-5052426

Or Contact Xiamen Information Office: Mr. Fang Junze / Wang Yiyan

Tel: 0592-5061630 Fax: 0592-5072291

The Foreign Affairs Office of Xiamen Municipal Government

The Information Office of Xiamen Municipal Government

The Media Center of the Organizing Committee of the Marathon