The Guangzhou Marathon Rated Most Influential Event by Chinese Athletics Association in 2023
The 2024 Chinese Athletics Association Road Running Working Conference was held on March 22 in Wuxi, Jiangsu, where the Guangzhou Marathon was recognized as the most influential event of the Chinese Athletics Association in 2023.
According to the “2023 China Road Running Events Blue Book,” a total of 699 large-scale road running events with more than 800 participants took place across China in 2023, with a total of 6.0519 million participants. The number of events held nationwide in April and November exceeded 100, with Guangdong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang ranking as the top three provinces hosting certification events. The total number of participants in certified events reached 4.1842 million, similar to 2019 numbers.
In 2023, over 2.5 million individuals completed “half marathon” or “full marathon” events in China, showcasing significant growth in competitive and public performance. The men’s marathon national record was broken by He Jie and Yang Shaohui, with several other elite runners meeting Paris Olympics standards.
To further enhance the quality of road running events in China, the Chinese Athletics Association selected 84 typical cases for 2023, with the Guangzhou Marathon receiving the highest recognition for its impactful contributions. The event, established in 2012, commemorated its 10th anniversary in 2023 and continues to set high standards for international city marathons.
Looking ahead, the Guangzhou Marathon aims to maintain its position as an international benchmark for city marathons, emphasizing high standards, innovation, and improved participant experiences. With preparations underway for the 15th National Games and the Paralympic Games in 2025, the event seeks to deepen sports exchanges, expand its influence, and enhance mass participation, contributing to the development of sports in China.
Reporter: Chai Zhi
Editor: Long Xi.