The Zhengzhou government held a press conference on October 21 to officially announce the “Zhengzhou Bank Cup” 2024 Zhengzhou Marathon, set to take place early next month. This year’s marathon will showcase unique events including the “Surname Flag Bearer” initiative, a Shaolin martial arts station, and a Yu Opera cheering station.
Director Li Ya from the Zhengzhou Sports Bureau shared that the event will cater to up to 40,000 participants, with 15,000 runners in the full marathon, 10,000 in the half marathon, and another 15,000 in the health and family runs.
This marathon will feature three different race categories: the full marathon covering 42.195 kilometers, the half marathon at 21.0975 kilometers, and shorter health and family runs approximately 5 kilometers long. Winners will be awarded for their placements, and special prizes will also be given to athletes from Henan province.
One of the highlights of this year’s event is the continued emphasis on promoting Central Plains culture through the “Surname Marathon” theme. Participants can look forward to a variety of activities such as recruiting surname flag bearers, creating custom surname posters, and issuing unique surname-themed medals.
This year, around 4,330 participants representing 364 surnames from 31 provinces have registered for the “Surname Flag Bearer” initiative. After a rigorous selection process, 300 flagged runners wearing customized uniforms will carry their family names on flags while competing in the marathon and half marathon, celebrating and promoting their cultural heritage.
In addition to the races, the event will feature a Kung Fu cheering station and a Yu Opera cheering station to vividly showcase the rich cultural background of Zhengzhou’s martial arts and opera. Competitors, staff, and volunteers will receive complimentary travel via local metro and bus services, while local attractions are offering ticket discounts and dining and lodging perks specifically for participants.
Preparations for the marathon are ongoing and progressing as scheduled.
