Shanghai Suzhou Creek Half Marathon to launch with record pre-registrations

The 2026 Shanghai Suzhou Creek Half Marathon will get underway at 7 am on Saturday, with pre-registrations reaching an unprecedented 41,620, surpassing the 40,000 mark for the first time.

This year, the starting line has been moved to Changshou Road to enhance the runners' experience, while the finish line remains at Suzhou Creek Half Marathon Park. The event features a single category, the half marathon, covering 21.0975 kilometers, and accommodates 7,000 participants, including runners from 13 countries and regions.

Prizes for the top three male and female finishers are 7,500 ($1,087), 5,000, and 2,500 yuan, respectively. Additionally, the top 150 male and 100 female finishers will secure direct entry to the 2026 Shanghai Marathon.

Zhang Cao, last year's women's runner-up, praised the Suzhou Creek route for its blend of practicality and scenic beauty, noting the flat course is perfect for achieving personal bests.

To foster cultural, commercial, tourism, and sports integration, event partners such as Amara Shanghai, Global Harbor, Suning Art Museum, and Changfeng Park are offering exclusive benefits for runners, including accommodations, shopping, and sightseeing opportunities.