Hong Kong Runners Criticise Water Shortages, Tough Course at Inaugural Marathon

Hong Kong runners hit out at conditions for inaugural Northern Metropolis Marathon

Water shortages, hot conditions, uneven terrain and a lengthy walk to retrieve belongings after the race marred Hong Kong’s inaugural Northern Metropolis Marathon, participants said. The complaints have prompted calls for organisers to overhaul the arrangements if the event returns.

Runners flag course and logistical problems

Participants also criticised the gruelling course conditions and the lack of water stations during the event. The post-race trek to retrieve belongings added to the difficulties faced by runners after completing their races.

Experts warned that the problems went beyond the teething issues that can accompany a new event. They urged organisers to ensure they had the professional expertise needed to host similar events in future.

The inaugural marathon was organised by the New Territories’ Heung Yee Kuk to mark the rural body’s centenary. It drew about 15,000 registered runners across four race categories. Organisers had presented the marathon as a showcase for the region’s development.

The concerns come as the city seeks to establish itself as a premier hub for mega-events. The criticism therefore raises questions about whether the event’s arrangements matched the ambitions attached to its launch, particularly in areas such as water provision, course conditions and the handling of runners’ belongings.

Source: South China Morning Post