Wuhan Marathon

The Wuhan Marathon is China's premier spring marathon and one of the country's most celebrated road races, held annually since its inaugural edition on April 10, 2016. Organized with support from the Chinese Athletics Association, the Hubei Provincial Sports Bureau, and the Wuhan Municipal Government, it has achieved the highest World Athletics Gold Label designation — making it one of the most prestigious road races in Asia. The race takes place during Wuhan's iconic cherry blossom season, creating a visually spectacular backdrop along a course that embodies the spirit of the city: 'one city, two rivers, three towns, four bridges, and five lakes.' The 2025 edition drew over 450,000 registration applications, setting a new Asian record for marathon demand. The course traverses Wuhan's major landmarks along the Yangtze and Han rivers, taking runners past the Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge, the Yellow Crane Tower, East Lake Greenway, Hankow Customs House, and the Lingbo Gate. The route is largely flat and fast, making it a popular choice for personal bests and elite competition. The 2025 men's course record stands at 2:08:51 and the women's record at 2:24:47. In 2026, the course was expanded to cover all central urban districts of Wuhan for the first time. Entry is by lottery. Domestic Chinese participants (including Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan) pay 200 CNY, while international runners pay 360 CNY or $50 USD. The registration lottery window typically opens in mid-December with results announced in January. Bank of China has served as title sponsor since at least 2023. With 30,000 total participants — 17,000 marathon and 13,000 half marathon slots — and a vibrant race village, the Wuhan Marathon is a flagship event in the global spring marathon calendar.