My Take | Hong Kong marathon provides winning formula with no finishing line in sight
Flagship running event that grows more popular by the year not only showcases Hong Kong, but also brings multiple rewards such as healthier lifestyles and community spirit
Hong Kong has taken great pride in hosting a growing number of glittering sports events, from clashes between top European football teams to international tournaments featuring stars of snooker, table tennis and golf.
This push to become a leading destination for such events, following the long-awaited opening of the iconic Kai Tak Sports Park, reached a climax in November with the city’s unprecedented co-hosting of China’s national games.
But the biggest and best of all the city’s “mega” sporting occasions is one that has, literally, been running since 1997.
The Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon will see 74,000 competitors, from elite athletes to novice fun runners, race through the heart of the city. It will be an uplifting sight.
This annual event is a flagship for Hong Kong sport. The city’s reputation depends on it being run smoothly, safely and successfully. There is much at stake.
The challenging 42km course of the marathon takes runners past some of Hong Kong’s best known landmarks, starting in Tsim Sha Tsui, crossing bridges and passing under the harbour before finishing in Victoria Park. It showcases the city.