Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) made a significant impact at the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025, embodying the values of teamwork, resilience, and community spirit. Held on 9 February 2025, the marathon attracted more than 74,000 participants, including over 600 runners from HKBU’s student, staff, and alumni community. Each runner demonstrated unwavering dedication to this prestigious event, pushing their limits in the spirit of self-transcendence and excellence while showcasing the unity of the HKBU community.

Dr the Hon Kennedy Wong Ying-ho, Chairman of the Council and the Court, and Professor Alex Wai, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKBU, along with other senior management members, joined HKBU runners at the Causeway Bay Sports Ground, demonstrating their unwavering support.

Unwavering Leadership Support and Presence

This year’s marathon was more than just a race—it was a celebration of teamwork, innovation, and sports science. With months of preparation and research, HKBU ensured that runners performed their best while prioritising their health and safety throughout the event.

Distinguished guests and senior management, including Dr the Hon Kennedy Wong Ying-ho, Chairman of the Council and the Court; Professor Alex Wai, President and Vice-Chancellor; Professor Martin Wong, Provost; Professor Lyu Aiping, Vice-President (Research and Development) cum Dean of Graduate School and Acting Dean of School of Chinese Medicine; Dr Albert Chau, Vice-President (Teaching and Learning); Ms Christine Chow, Vice-President (Administration) and Secretary; Professor Terence Lau, Interim Chief Innovation Officer, and other notable deans and heads, showed their support by attending and engaging with the HKBU runners.  The HKBU booth attracted over 880 runners, reflecting the strong sense of community and engagement from HKBU.

HKBU Booth: A Central Hub for Support and Engagement

Located at the Causeway Bay Sports Ground, the HKBU booth served as a vibrant gathering point for runners, supporters, and visitors, offering essential race-day assistance and fostering community interaction. Key activities included:

1. Exclusive Souvenirs & Refreshments 

Over 450 runners received exclusive HKBU souvenirs, including backpacks, towels, and other sponsored items. Hydration and energy-boosting refreshments were also provided to keep runners energised throughout the race.

Runners were welcomed with refreshing drinks and exclusive souvenirs at the booth, helping them recover and celebrate their achievements.

2. Post-Race Recovery: Restoring Energy with Expert Care

Over 100 runners sought recovery assistance from the School of Chinese Medicine, where 10 experienced practitioners and students offered muscle relaxation therapy and injury prevention advice, ensuring swift and safe post-race recovery.

Chinese medicine practitioners from the School of Chinese Medicine provided essential recovery, ensuring runners could bounce back quickly and safely.

3. Research Exercise: Enhancing Performance with Cutting-Edge Data

Led by Professor Yannis Pitsiladis from the Department of Sport, Physical Education, and Health, the department collected real-time performance data from 89 runners, tracking key metrics such as heart rate, stride efficiency, and core body temperature. This invaluable data will contribute to refining training methods and enhancing the safety and endurance of future participants.

Professor Alex Wai, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKBU (right), discusses the details of the Sports Science program with Mr Iain Killoughery, Lecturer in the Department of Sport, Physical Education, and Health (left).

4. PADA Dance and Cheering Team Power Up Runners

The HKBU booth was energised by the Dance and Cheering Team, creating an uplifting atmosphere. Four cheering spots motivated runners with dynamic signs, while the Postgraduate Association Dance Association (PADA) delivered a high-energy performance to BABYMONSTER’s "Batter Up" , boosting morale and excitement.

Four cheering spots enthusiastically supported the runners, waving vibrant signs that helped keep the runners motivated and energised throughout the race.

The Postgraduate Association Dance Association (PADA) energised the booth with a high-energy performance, making the area a celebration and motivating runners with every beat.

5. Strengthening HKBU’s Identity and Team Spirit

HKBU’s Marathon Team identity featured a distinctive geometric design, symbolising resilience and iconic Hong Kong landmarks. Runners captured their victorious moments at the Photo-Taking Spot, creating lasting memories to share with teammates and supporters.

Professor Alex Wai, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKBU (right), and Professor Terence Lau, Interim Chief Innovation Officer (left), completed the Men's 10K event at the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025.

Celebrating Success and Looking Forward to 2026

HKBU’s participation in the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025 exemplified the values of team spirit, perseverance, and innovation. The combined efforts of HKBU runners, student helpers, researchers, and supporters contributed to the event’s remarkable success, further reinforcing the University’s commitment to promoting health, sports excellence, and community engagement.

We look forward to seeing even more HKBU runners take on the challenge in 2026!