China race disaster: local governments suspend all outdoor sports competitions in the wake of deaths during mountain ultramarathon

Local governments have directly told event organisers in their provinces to suspend all outdoor sports competitions until further notice

The move follows the death of at least 21 runners during a race in Gansu that was struck by a storm

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Runners huddle for warm as disaster unfolds during a 100km race in Gansu. Photo: WEIBIO

Published: 6:39pm, 24 May 2021Updated: 6:56pm, 24 May 2021

Local governments in China have told event organisers to suspend all outdoor sports competitions until further notice. The news comes in the wake of at least 21 deaths during a race in Gansu Province.

An outdoor industry professional told the Post that local governments have told organisers directly to suspend all outdoor sports and competitions. The professional added that this will probably lead to higher costs for organising events when they resume, because they will need more rescue personnel and other safety measures will need to be introduced. This will mean small events organisers will not be able to afford to host events.

Not all local governments have issued the order, as not all provinces host relevant events. Outdoor sports are vaguely defined to include the likes of mountain running.

Over the weekend, a storm hit a 100km race in Yellow River Stone Forest Park. Runners were caught out in light clothing and at least 21 died, including top ultra runners Liang Jing, who came second at the 2019 Hong Kong 100, and Huang Yinbin, a sponsored runner for Hoka One One.

Rescuers search for missing people during the race in China, where 21 people died. Photo: Xinhua

The central Chinese government has now launched an investigation into safety standards nationwide.