BUDAPEST, Sept. 7 (Xinhua) -- The 40th Budapest Half Marathon on Sunday attracted a record 20,800 runners, making it the largest half marathon in Hungary's history.

Among them, 6,200 participants from 115 countries and regions competed in the main 21.1 km race, which started at 8:00 a.m. from the Pazmany Peter Promenade, leading runners along the banks of the Danube and past UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Hungary's Gabor Karsai triumphed in the men's race in 1:04:03, while another home runner Lili Vindics-Toth claimed the women's victory in 1:11:43.

In addition to the half marathon, participants could also choose to participate in the half marathon relay for two or three, as well as a 10km run.

"This record-breaking turnout firmly places Budapest on the international running map. Nearly twice as many foreign athletes joined us compared to last year, reflecting both the city's unique beauty and years of dedicated work," said Arpad Kocsis, CEO of the Budapest Sport Office. ■