As the year itself runs out, more than 12,000 competitors will run in Zhuhai as Hengqin New Area welcomes the city's first full marathon on Sunday, Dec 30.

The 2018 Hengqin Marathon is now accepting online applications from both semi-professionals and amateurs as individuals or in groups, it was announced at a press conference on Nov 22.

A spokesperson said the races will reflect "the national fitness boom and fully demonstrate the vitality of Hengqin New Area."

Up to 5,000 full marathon (42.2 km, 26.2 miles) runners (aged over 20) and 3,000 half-marathoners (21.1 km, 13 miles) aged over 16 will be registered. A mini-marathon contest (3.5 km, 2.2 miles) will be held for no more than 4,000 entrants.

For safety concerns, each runner must prove their race experience and health. Furthermore, if a contestant does not finish a specified distance in time, he/she must withdraw. Medical stations will be set up along the route and doctors and rescuers will be on hand.

Nov 22 press conference

The 8 am start and then finish lines are at Hengqin International Tennis Center. Runners will be greeted by picturesque views and distinct landmarks including Stone Exposition Park, Hengqin Financial Base, Financial Island, Mangzhou Wetland Park, Flower Corridor, and Three-Step Waterfall.

The top 12 finishers will receive cash rewards and each competitor will take home a medal upon completing their distance.  

Leaders of the men's and women's full-marathon will get 20,000 yuan ($2,880) if their times are within 2:9:30. Otherwise they'll take home 10,000 yuan ($1,441). Second- and third-place finishers will receive 8,000 yuan ($1,150) and 6,000 yuan ($865).

Tree-lined scenery

Special prizes with the maximum of 4,000 yuan ($580) for male and female winners each will be awarded to runners from Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao.

Group competition is allowed only in the full-marathon in which each team must consist of 10 members including at least two women. The teams' average times determine the final rankings. The top eight will receive certificates of honor and other rewards while the best three will also lift trophies.

The Hengqin Marathon is sponsored by the Chinese Athletic Association, Administrative Committee of Hengqin New Area, and Huafa Group. Huafa Sports Operations Management is responsible for organization.

Read the rules and apply to register at http://www.hengqinmarathon.com/.

Running for health [Photos courtesy WeChat ID:Love-zhuhai]