Hong Kong Marathon 2026: Zoom in on the Outstanding Runners

The Hong Kong Marathon 2026 was held today (January 18th). The champion for the men's full marathon was Bizuneh Melaku Belachew from Ethiopia, while the champion for the women's full marathon was Habtegebrel Eshete H. Habte from Bahrain.

The champion for the men's full marathon: Bizuneh Melaku Belachew from Ethiopia, Photo by Bastille Post

Bizuneh, the men's full marathon champion, won in 2 hours, 9 minutes, and 39 seconds. He said that although the full marathon race was not easy, he was happy to participate in this year's event in Hong Kong. Enjoying the race atmosphere here, he hopes to have the opportunity to compete in Hong Kong again next year.

Bizuneh Melaku Belachew, Photo by Bastille Post

Habtegebrel, the women's full marathon champion, won in 2 hours, 27 minutes, and 3 seconds. She said that it was her first time running the marathon in China and felt quite satisfied with the organizing committee and the race atmosphere. She described the spectators as enthusiastic and the Hong Kong environment as beautiful.

The champion for the women's full marathon: Habtegebrel Eshete H. Habte, Photo by Bastille Post

She revealed that she attempted to break the race record, but the strong winds during the race, especially the headwind, posed a challenge to her performance in the late stage, ultimately preventing her from achieving such a goal. She pointed out that she had been preparing for the Hong Kong Marathon for about five months, and she would continue to prepare for other Asian marathon races, hoping to achieve better results in the future.

Mr. Chow Yun-fat, Photo by Bastille Post

In addition, the renowned Hong Kong movie star Mr. Chow Yun-fat also participated in the Hong Kong Marathon 2026. As a fourth-time runner, he participated in the 10km race this year. He said that he wasn't focused on the result, but mainly on completing the race and having such an opportunity to meet with the public. He also mentioned that the weather was great today, which was sunny, breezy, cool and comfortable, making him incredibly happy while running.

Mr. Chow Yun-fat, Photo by Bastille Post

The Hong Kong Marathon 2026 was held today (January 18th), with Chief Executive Mr. John Lee officiating as a guest of honor at the start of the full marathon race at 6:00 am. The full marathon race started on Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, with runners crossing the harbor via the Western Harbour Crossing and finishing at Victoria Park on Hong Kong Island, a distance of approximately 42 kilometers.

The Chief Executive, Mr. John Lee officiated as a guest of honor at the start of the full marathon race. Photo source: FB of Mr. John Lee

Mr. John Lee stated on his social media that the Hong Kong Marathon, as one of the most popular running events in Hong Kong, has been awarded "M" Mark status by the Major Sports Events Committee. For many years, it has attracted running enthusiasts from around the world to compete with each other in such a unique cityscape and consolidated Hong Kong's status as a centre for major international sports events. He stated that the HKSAR Government will continue to actively promote the elite, mega event-oriented, professional, industrialized, and popularized development of sports, as well as organize diverse sports and recreation activities to encourage citizens to develop regular exercise habits.

The honored guests cheered on the runners of the Hong Kong Marathon. Photo source: FB of Mr. John Lee

Mr. John Lee also mentioned that according to the Hong Kong Observatory's weather forecast, the weather will be generally sunny, warm, and dry during the day, providing runners with a comfortable environment. He wished all the athletes the best of luck to enjoy a smooth race and achieve excellent results.

The Hong Kong Marathon 2026 starts today. Photo by Bastille Post

Miss Rosanna Law, the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, also attended the start ceremony of the marathon.

Runners from home and abroad participated in this mega sports event. Photo by Bastille Post

The organizing committee stated that the 2026 marathon will continue to have 74,000 runner slots, with overseas or non-local runners coming from 110 countries or regions, accounting for 25%, an increase of approximately over 20% compared to last year.

Runners arrived at the marathon finish line successively. Photo by Bastille Post