A marathon where length and legs are shorter
Who had more fun – parents or children? No doubt, both.
A mini marathon for pint-sized runners today attracted 4,000 youngsters aged from 5 to 12.
The 3rd annual Shangma Speed X Series Kids Run, held in Huangpu District, featured an individual race and a family run.
Children between 9 and 12 ran a 4.2-kilometer length, starting and ending at the China State Shipbuilding Co Pavilion on Miaojiang Road. The route covered part of the riverside route of the annual Shanghai International Marathon.
Runner Hua Zixuan crossed the finish line first, in 16 minutes and 20 seconds.
The 3-kilometer family run involved children between 5 and 8. Each runner was accompanied by one parent.
Traffic was restricted in the area to ensure safety, and water supply stations were set up each kilometer to protect against dehydration.
The event is organized along the same standards as adult marathon events. Pacers and coaches helped children do warm-up exercises.
The day’s events didn’t end at the finish line. Organizers set up a sports carnival nearby, with facilities to play baseball, rugby and golf or to try out fencing and archery.
Water stations help slake the thirst of young runners.
