Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon Set for January 18, 2026, with New Youth Race

The 28th Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon returns on January 18, 2026, with a total of 74,000 spots and a new "Leap Forward Youth Run" for ages 10-15. The inaugural youth event, capped at 2,500 participants, will take place on January 17 at Kai Tak Sports Park over a 2km course to encourage young runners.

Kwan Kee, chairman of the Hong Kong Association of Athletics Affiliates, highlighted the race's World Athletics Gold Label status and plans to invite top global athletes to boost competition and inspire locals.

The lineup includes the full marathon, half marathon, 10km, and wheelchair races, with unchanged routes starting at various points and ending at Victoria Park. Start times begin at 5:10 a.m. for wheelchair, with time limits from 2-6 hours depending on the event.

Public ballot registration opens September 8, 2025, at 10 a.m., closing September 17. Results announced September 23 and October 3, with payments due shortly after. Special entries for qualified runners, teams, and persons with disabilities available.

Eligibility: Full marathon requires age 20+ and prior 10km+ race completion (2024-2025); half/10km age 16+.

The Marathon Expo returns to Kai Tak for pack collection. Organizers are discussing future relocation to the park with the government.

To prevent bib-swapping issues from last year, verification tech may be added. The event supports the government's "M" Mark for major sports, with early overseas promotion to attract internationals and enhance Hong Kong's sports economy.

Local half marathon champion Lam Ying-cheung expressed excitement for potential Kai Tak routes, citing added vitality.