Chongming adds more events on its sporting calendar

Chongming District will introduce two new international sports events this year — the Ironman triathlon and Rock N Roll Marathon.

The district has been hosting the Tour of Chongming Island International Cycling Race since 2007. Along with other running and water events, the district has been attracting over 10,000 citizens to compete in various sports activities on the island every year.

The two new events are expected to enrich Chongming’s sporting status.

The Rock N Roll Marathon is listed for October 13. Originating in the US and active since 1978, the unique road running series is known for lining the race routes with live bands, cheerleaders and themed water stations.

The Ironman is one of the best known triathlon events in the world, and will be held on October 21 and stretch over 113 kilometers.

“We always welcome world-class events as competition is core to the development of sports industry,” said Gong Yaofei, director of Chongming District Sports Bureau.

Wang Jing, deputy director of Chongming District, said the two new events are part of a strategic cooperation between Chongming and Wanda Sports which owns the two competitions.

“Chongming has been making use of its ecological environment and developing sports industry under the city government’s guideline,” said Wang. “We have already created two sports towns on the island for football, tennis, marathon, water sports, etc.”

Wang said under the strategic cooperation, Wanda Group will assist Chongming in the construction of sports venues and facilities, and provide sports-related training.

Liu Chun, deputy general manager of Wanda Sports, said both the events will be held in October to create a “sports carnival-like atmosphere” for Chongming.

“Ironman is a world famed endurance race. Rock N Roll Marathon distinguishes from other marathon events as it starts in the afternoon, and followed by live music parties,” said Liu. “We hope the new events and our cooperation will contribute to the development of Chongming’s sports, tourism and culture industries.”

SHINE