Runners who took part in the first-ever half marathon held at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge on Sunday called it a most unique and exciting experience.

About 8,000 people, including world-class runners from overseas as well as Hong Kong movie superstar Chow Yun-fat, joined the 21.1-kilometre race, which started and finished at the Hong Kong Port, covering the local section of the cross-border bridge.

A runner from the SAR, Candy Tsang, said it was a new and exciting experience.

She said she was able to see planes take off along the way, which helped her to relax.

“I was also scraped by a manhole cover along the way, but the injury was not serious,” Tsang added.

Another Hong Kong representative, Chong See-yeung, said the course was challenging and strong wind hindered his performance.

“I didn’t expect to post my fastest time. My goal was just to do my best," he said.

"There was more wind on the return leg, so it wasn’t as comfortable as the first part of the race."

The race for the challenge group of runners started at 7.40am, and the remaining two open groups began about half an hour later.

Geoffrey Toroitich Kipchumba from Kenya finished ahead of the pack in the challenge group in about an hour's time.

Chow, meanwhile, completed the race in more than two hours. He described the run as "pleasant".

"It's the first time I've joined such a race, so it's not too bad. (The result) meets my expectations," the movie star said, adding that he'll join the race again in future.

Chief Secretary Eric Chan and Immigration Director Benson Kwok were among those who saw the runners off.

Writing on his Facebook page, Chan noted it's the first edition of the half marathon as well as the first running event at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge since it opened in 2018.

"The scene was bustling. Although the weather turned cooler recently, it did not diminish the hot atmosphere.

"They can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Hong Kong and personally experience this great construction of the country. They will definitely be left with a deep and unforgettable half-marathon experience."

Simon Yeung, chairman of the half-marathon's organising committee, said 17 runners received treatment after the race, with three of them taken to hospital.

He also said organisers would evaluate the overall arrangements and could hold the race in future with more runners. “We will review the race to see if there are any bottlenecks for the 8,000 participants. If it can be improved, we will consider allowing more people to join, as many runners were unable to register this time.”
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Last updated: 2023-11-19 HKT 15:24