"Great Helmsman" remembered with run, music, noodles

CHANGSHA, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- Thousands celebrated China's late leader Mao Zedong's birthday with a fun run, musical performances and noodles at the "Great Helmsman"'s hometown on Wednesday.

As one of the traditional rituals, a 5,000-meter race was held in Shaoshan, central Hunan Province. The route is from Mao's former residence to the local railway station.

The annual race, in its 30th year, is in response to Mao's calls for improving health through physical exercise, the event's organizers said.

Thousands paid tribute before Mao's statue in the city's square. Some laid wreaths and bowed three times before the statue.

"Chairman Mao lost six relatives in leading Chinese people to fight for a new life. I want to give him my sincere regards," said 69-year-old Huang Shaoyun.

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