Hong Kong Marathon warns runners against breaking law with political slogans in first mass participation sports event of national security era

Officials dialled up pressure on organisers to warn runners against pulling political stunts for fear of the event descending into protest, source says

Organisers originally indicated they might not challenge runners making political statements during Sunday’s race, which involves 18,500 competitors

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The Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon was most recently staged in 2019. Photo: Felix Wong

Published: 10:16pm, 21 Oct 2021Updated: 11:27pm, 21 Oct 2021

Organisers of the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon have cautioned runners to abide by the law and not make political statements when taking part in Sunday’s race, the first mass participation sporting event in the city since Beijing-imposed national security legislation took effect.

A source said the administration pressured organisers into issuing the warning after they previously indicated they would not interfere if competitors wore outfits displaying political slogans. The government took action in fear of the officially approved event descending into an anti-government protest, the source added.

“The Hong Kong Association of Athletics Affiliates would like to emphasise that political elements and slogans should play no part in sports events,” a Thursday statement from the organisers said.

“We strongly advise runners to respect the official rules and to ensure the event takes place in an orderly manner.

“Anyone who violates the law or breaches the official rules will be barred from participating in the event. If needed, the organisers will seek assistance from law enforcement agencies.”

The association added that runners wearing what they described as special attire or carrying backpacks must undergo security checks with event staff at the start area.

“The organisers strongly condemn anyone who makes use of the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon as a platform for conveying and promoting political messages,” the statement added.

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