Chilly Weather Sets the Stage for Record-Breaking Runs at Hong Kong Marathon

The 2024 Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon saw over 70,000 runners braving the coldest conditions in two decades, with temperatures plunging to 11 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning. The Hong Kong Observatory issued a cold weather warning, but for many participants, the frosty climate was a blessing in disguise, offering the perfect backdrop for personal bests and unforgettable moments.

Among the sea of runners was Law, a 60 years old who clinched third place in the men’s advanced category of the 10-kilometer race. “This cool weather is ideal for running,” he remarked, beaming with pride after crossing the finish line in 55 minutes. “At my age, finishing under an hour is an achievement in itself!”

The marathon wasn’t just about the veterans. Half-marathon participant Lee, for instance, found the low humidity and gentle breeze to be “absolutely perfect.” He barely broke a sweat and shaved an impressive 1 minute and 20 seconds off his previous record. “The cheers from the crowd along the route were incredible,” he said. “They kept me going.”

Kam, another runner, echoed Lee’s sentiments, praising the cool weather and the electrifying atmosphere created by the massive turnout. “It’s fantastic to see so many people running together,” he said. “It pushes you to go faster.”

This year’s event may mark the end of an era, as the Hong Kong, China Association of Athletics Affiliates is considering relocating the finish line to Kai Tak Sports Park next year. If the change goes ahead, this year’s finish at Victoria Park will be the last. Ng, who secured third place in the women’s advanced 10km category, expressed excitement about the potential new route. “Running along the Kwun Tong Promenade would be a fresh experience,” she said. Law, too, is eager for change. “If there are new courses, I’ll definitely support them!”

The marathon also attracted its fair share of star power. Hong Kong icon Chow Yun-fat, 69, completed his second half-marathon in 2 hours, 24 minutes, and 33 seconds. The veteran actor joked about his post-race plans, saying he looked forward to enjoying a bowl of faux shark’s fin soup near the proposed new finish line at Kai Tak Sports Park.

Despite the overall festive atmosphere, the event wasn’t without its challenges. Around 9 a.m., a foreign female runner required medical assistance and was escorted to Ruttonjee Hospital in Wan Chai. By 1 p.m., 20 runners had been hospitalized, with two already discharged. Five men remain in serious condition, while the other 13—10 men and three women—are stable.

The 2024 Hong Kong Marathon will be remembered not just for its record-breaking runs and celebrity participants, but also for the resilience and camaraderie displayed by its thousands of runners. As the event evolves, one thing is certain: the spirit of the marathon will continue to thrive, no matter where the finish line is.