In the race to create a global brand
Print Edition
THE organizers of the Shanghai International Marathon say they aim to build the race into a globally recognized brand, plus make it a model for domestic running events.
Yesterday’s race was the 19th year of the event, during which time it has become one of the most popular sporting events in town, attracting both runners and people volunteering to help.
This year, the Shanghai East Best Lansheng Event Management Co became the organizer of the Shanghai International Marathon, and it did not hide its ambition to make the event a calling card for the city.
“The Shanghai International Marathon has a solid foundation with its near 20-year history,” said Zhou Jin, general manager of East Best Lansheng.
“It’s already one of the best marathons in China, and we will build it into a world-class event for Shanghai in the future.”
The Shanghai International Marathon is one of the most “internationalized” running events in China, not surprising given the city’s status as an economic and commercial center.
Yesterday, more than 6,000 of the 35,000 runners came from 80 other countries and regions — the highest for China’s marathon events.
Zhou said this is only one reflection of the event’s internationalization. The company will build the event into a cultural communication platform by getting more foreign-invested enterprises and partners involved, said Zhou.
“A lot of companies encourage their employees to get involved in sports including running. Some managers are regular marathon runners themselves, which of course is a benefit for the development of the sport.”
In efforts to raise the profile of the Shanghai International Marathon, East Best Lansheng has been in talks with foreign marathon counterparts — such as those in Boston and Chicago — to seek collaboration. And it plans to send top amateur runners abroad to take part in marathons to help make the Shanghai race wider known.
Lot of improvements
“A marathon event can reflect a city’s image and the quality of its people,” Zhou said.
The event has seen a lot of improvements in detail in planning and organizing, said Zhou. Preparation work started in April and 3,000 volunteers and organizing staff received thorough training, while runners were provided with professional advice.
This year, energy supply stations were arranged the along the route after the 17.5km mark. Energy bars were provided to runners during the race, who were only supplied with water beforehand. More toilets and trash bins were also added, said Zhou.
This year’s race was also shifted from December in the hope of better air quality and higher temperatures — which paid off yesterday.
The route of the Shanghai International Marathon was a source of much pride to the organizers.
With the starting line at the Chen Yi Square at the Bund, competitors ran along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Mall, a symbol of the city’s prosperity.
The route for full marathon runners also provided views of the west Bund of the Huangpu River in Xuhui District, as well as tourism spots such as the Longhua Temple, before arriving at the finish line at the Shanghai Stadium.
“It combined all kinds of elements and views of the city — from river to parks, from modern to the past,” Zhou said.
“The route itself is a calling card for the city of Shanghai.”
Zhou said the marathon would have a lasting impression on participants.
“The event lasts for only one day and once a year. However, the sporting spirit should permeate through people’s lives,” Zhou said.
With all places on this year’s races snapped up within hours, Zhou said East Best Lansheng will be organizing more events for local runners, including a half marathon that is scheduled for the first half of next year.
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