The Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon takes place every February, attracting around 70,000 runners, which makes it one of the most significant running events in the world. The marathon was awarded the IAAF Gold Label Road Race, hence many elite runners from Ethiopia, Kenya, and other countries take part in the event. Hong Kong marathon is also famous for its beautiful coastal views and fantastic warm atmosphere. Runners are met with cheering crowds, which makes the challenge of running a lot easier.
The drawbacks of the Hong Kong marathon are tropical humidity and a rather challenging course. Humidity especially affects foreign runners who are not used to weather conditions in Asia. The first race was held in 1981, featuring four circuits of the roads around Sek Kong Camp. The current scenic course starts near the famous Tsing Ma Bridge and ends at Hong Kong International Airport on Chek Lap Kok. The Tsing Ma Bridge is the main attraction of the course. Being the world's 14th longest span suspension bridge, it connects the islands of Tsing Yi and Ma Wan. The course passes Ting Kau Bridge, Western Harbour Crossing, and Golden Bauhinia Plaza in Wan Chai North. In addition to full marathon distance, the race includes half-marathon and a 10 km race.
