Running races, including marathons, half-marathons and other distance events from 5-30 kilometers, have gained enormous popularity since 2014 when the central government devolved the approval process to the provinces. In 2024, there were 749 race events, attracting more than 7 million registrations. With round-trip air tickets, catering and accommodation, a participant might spend at least 5,000 yuan (US$702) to attend one event. Cities are charting exciting courses that pass major sites and offering cultural events. The zeal for running has upped the price corporate sponsors will pay to back races, perhaps as high as millions of yuan per event. Sports brands like Li-Ning and Adidas are seeing their running shoes fly off the shelves. Experts point out that road running is not only an athletic competition, but also a touchstone for a city’s capability to organize a safe, smooth and convenient sports event.
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