2024 Wuxi Marathon to kick off March 24

A bird's-eye view of the marathoners during the 2023 COLMO Wuxi Marathon. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxifabu2013]

The 2024 HLA Wuxi Marathon will take place on March 24 at Yinxiu Road in Wuxi, Jiangsu province.

A total of 33,000 marathoners from 48 countries and regions are expected to compete in a full marathon, half marathon and fun run.

Several enhancements have been implemented for this year's event.

Volunteers cheer runners on at the 2023 COLMO Wuxi Marathon. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxifabu2013]

Prize money for winners who complete the full marathon within 2:07:30 (men) and 2:23:00 (women) has been increased from $40,000 to $50,000.

Renowned for its scenic route, the race course traverses the classic travel route surrounding Lihu Lake in the first half and the dynamic Wuxi Economic Development District in the second half. To make it more attractive, scenic Gonghu Bay Wetland Park is included in the route this year, with some roads undergoing transformation.

To provide a better experience for runners, over 6,500 volunteers are expected to serve as guides and provide supplies along the route.

A souvenir medal marks the 10th anniversary of Wuxi Marathon. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxifabu2013]

Twenty-three ambulances, roughly 87 automated external defibrillators (AED), 100 medical aid runners, and over 100 medical workers will also be deployed to guarantee safety. Twenty-seven fixed medical stations will be set up at the finishing line and along the track.

This year, the Wuxi marathon will serve as the first leg of the 2024 National Marathon Championships, a qualifying event for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games, and the Wuxi stop of the Grand Canal Marathon Series.

2024 marks the event's 10th anniversary. The organizing committee will arrange a retrospective exhibition at the check-in area, displaying Wuxi Marathon-themed souvenirs such as souvenir medals, Huishan clay figurines gift boxes, and fridge magnets.