Cold 'perfect' for Hong Kong marathoners, including superstar Chow Yun-fat

The winter cold is "perfect condition" for some among over 70,000 marathon runners in the coldest Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon in the past two decades, who were chasing some personal best.

This came as the mercury dipped to 11 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning and a cold weather warning was issued by the Hong Kong Observatory.

A runner, aged over 60, named Law, who won third place in the men’s advanced category of the 10-kilometer race, said this morning's cool weather is ideal for running.

As he completed his first competition in 55 minutes, he said: "At this age, finishing in under an hour is already impressive!”

Half marathon participant Lee said he humidity in Hong Kong was low, with only a gentle breeze. Describing the conditions as “absolutely perfect,” he hardly broke a sweat during the race.

Lee also noted many citizens along the route were cheering them on, inspiring him to pursue his personal best, finishing in 1 minute and 20 seconds faster than last year.

Another runner named Kam agreed that the cool weather was favorable for performance, describing the atmosphere with over 70,000 participants as “fantastic,” which motivated him to run faster.

The Hong Kong, China Association of Athletics Affiliates is considering moving the finish line to Kai Tak Sports Park next year, which could mean that Victoria Park will serve as the finish line for the last time this year.

Ng, who secured third place in the women’s advanced category of the 10km race, expressed her hope for the opportunity to run along Kwun Tong Promenade in the future, noting that it would offer a different experience.

Law added that he is eager to explore more new routes. “If there are new courses, I will definitely support them!”

Hong Kong superstar Chow Yun-fat, 69, is among the top personalities who ran, along with government officials, lawmakers, tycoons and other celebrities.

This was his second attempt at the half marathon, which he completed in 2 hours, 24 minutes and 33 seconds. 

He expressed hope to finish at Kai Tak Sports Park in the future, joking that he would like to enjoy faux shark’s fin soup nearby afterward.

Despite the overall positive atmosphere, a few incidents occurred during the race.

Around 9am, a foreign female runner experienced discomfort and required assistance from two staff members, who escorted her to Ruttonjee Hospital in Wan Chai for treatment. 

As of 1pm, 20 runners were sent to hospitals including two who have already been discharged. Among the 18 staying at the hospital, five men are in serious condition and being hospitalized at the Ruttonjee Hospital.

The remaining 13 runners -- 10 men and three women -- are in stable condition.

(Cheng Wong)