Road closures throughout Hong Kong will take place as the city gears up for the highly anticipated Hong Kong Marathon 2025, set to occur on February 9th. The Transportation Department has announced phased road closures beginning tonight at 11:30 PM to facilitate the marathon scene.
The initial road closures will affect the southbound lanes of the Ting Kau Bridge and the section of the Lantau Link heading toward Kowloon. Other major thoroughfares, including the East Corridor from Victoria Park Road to Shau Kei Wan and both the Central and Wan Chai bypasses, will also close starting at 1:15 AM.
Marathon runners will set off from Nathan Road between Salisbury Road and Gascoigne Road, with the full closure of Nathan Road implemented at 3 AM. The West Tunnel toward Hong Kong Island will be closed during the event period, with all affected roads expected to reopen around 2 PM.
To accommodate participants, the MTR will operate its first trains earlier than usual. The Tuen Ma Line and East Rail Line will begin service at 3:25 AM, with other routes starting between 4:00 and 4:30 AM. Consequently, 28 special bus routes will also be implemented on Sunday to aid runners traveling to Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay.
At the Kai Tak Sports Park, the atmosphere is abuzz as athletes collect their race packs. The excitement is palpable among first-time participants. One half-marathon runner, Mr. Ye, shared, "I’ve been preparing for over two months, running at least twice weekly.” Meanwhile, Ms. Wen, who is running her first full marathon after several half-marathons, said, "I’m ready and will give it my all!".
This year’s marathon has attracted over 73,000 participants—returning to pre-pandemic levels—and includes travelers from the mainland. One competitor from Jiangmen mentioned being inspired after witnessing Hong Kong celebrity Chow Yun-fat running last year, stating, "Seeing stars up close makes the experience even more exciting."
The cool weather on race day will prove beneficial, as several runners believe they could perform even more optimally with lower temperatures. A local runner pointed out, "Cold weather is easier for us as it keeps our heart rates manageable." Others noted their routines, including wearing thin rain jackets at the start to combat the cold before discarding them mid-race.
Team leaders also provided advice for optimal performance. Captain Xie Junxian emphasized, "Rest is key, and make sure to stretch and relax your legs beforehand." Participants expecting strong winds are advised to find teammates matching their speeds to shield each other during the run.
Notably, enhanced public safety measures will be observed throughout the marathon course. Police will monitor and set up barricades, ensuring both runners and spectators remain safe.
The significant scale of this year's marathon, which includes 18,000 full marathon runners, 24,500 half-marathon runners, 30,960 participants for the 10 km, and wheelchair racers, highlights Hong Kong’s commitment to hosting large-scale international events even amid challenging conditions. A visit to the marathon expo—hosting various booths operating from February 5th at the Kai Tak Sports Park—helped participants engage with others and prepare for the race.
All drivers are urged to avoid impacted areas on Sunday to minimize traffic congestion, especially around the heavily trafficked districts of Yau Tsim Mong and various crossings during peak hours.
Residents and citizens are encouraged to check the Transportation Department's website or the mobile app for the latest updates on road conditions and transportation arrangements leading up to and post-marathon.
With the marathon fast approaching, anticipation grows across the city, with hopes of successful participation and enthusiastic performances from local and international runners alike.