• Almost 10,000 runners from 40 countries and regions hit the streets for the annual Sands China Macao International 10K run.
• The 10K race route included a section of the Cotai Strip for the first time ever.

The “2025 Sands China Macao International 10K”, featuring both the 10K race and Fun Run events, took place in mid-March in Macau. Organized by the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, Sands China and the General Association of Athletics of Macau, the race welcomed nearly 10,000 runners from 40 countries and regions.

On race day, the 10K event kicked off at 7am, followed by the Fun Run at 7:45am, with both starting at Sai Van Lake Square. Runners in the 10K event first crossed the Sai Van Bridge and continued along the Cotai Strip before finishing at the Olympic Sports Centre Stadium. Fun Run participants also passed through the Sai Van Bridge before heading to the same finishing point.

Participants not only enjoyed the spirit of long-distance running but also took in scenic views along the route, experiencing the unique urban charm of Macau. Some runners dressed up in themed costumes, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Notably, this year’s race route extended to the iconic Cotai Strip for the first time, further enhancing Macau’s sports tourism branding. Along the way, signature entertainment performers from Sands China’s integrated resorts – including The Venetian Macao, The Parisian Macao and The Londoner Macao – cheered on runners and delivered lively street performances.

After intense competition, Vincent Kibet Langat of Kenya claimed the men’s overall 10K title, edging out the runner-up by 0.11 seconds and setting a new event record of 28:07. In the women’s category, defending champion Betty Sigei, also from Kenya, successfully retained her title with another record-breaking time of 31:23.

Among Macau runners, Wang Kun and Hoi Long were crowned male and female champions of the 10K, finishing in 31:27 and 38:42 respectively, with Wang Kun setting a new Macau record.

The popular “Sands 10K Presents: The FUNkiest Costume Award” – a hit with runners in past editions – returned once again, encouraging participants in both the 10K and Fun Run to dress up in line with this year’s “Ocean Run” theme. Runners were invited to incorporate marine elements into their outfits, such as sea creature costumes or ocean-themed designs, in order to promote marine protection and biodiversity awareness. A total of 10 groups were crowned winners, with each group awarded a hotel experience package from The Parisian Macao valued at MOP$3,500 each.

Dr Wilfred Wong, Executive Vice Chairman of Sands China Ltd, stated that since the event’s inception in 2021, the race has evolved into a highly influential long-distance running event. This year’s inclusion of the iconic Cotai Strip in the route allowed participants to experience Macau’s dynamic blend of energy and allure. He noted that the event attracted nearly 10,000 runners from 40 countries and regions, underscoring Macau’s unique status as a “City of Sports” on the global stage.

Macau Athletics Association President Chan Pou Sin expressed hope that the event would continue to promote athletics in the city, encouraging more residents to take up running and enjoy the health and joy that sport brings.

As one of Macau’s premier annual running events, the Macao International 10K has attracted around 40,000 participants since its inaugural edition in 2021. This year’s race was also an official activity of the “Culture City of East Asia 2025 – Macao, China” program of events.

Promoting a Healthy Community
As a major annual sports event in Macau, the “Macao International 10K” continues to extend its influence into the local community.

To ensure inclusive participation across all social groups, Sands China invited 550 participants – including company staff and members from local social service organizations Macau Special Olympics, Richmond Fellowship of Macau, Bosco Youth Service Network and Holy House of Mercy’s Rehabilitation Centre for the Blind – to take part in the event. Pre-race training sessions were held to promote the inclusive spirit of “Sports Without Boundaries”, encouraging community sports development, fostering regular exercise habits and building a harmonious, inclusive society.

Sands China also hosted two “Joyful Run with Sands Cares” activities on 1 and 8 March, inviting members of the Richmond Fellowship of Macau and Macau Special Olympics to join Sands Cares Ambassadors for warm-up runs. These sessions helped participants familiarize themselves with the racecourse while offering running tips to prepare them for the event.

Additionally, the company organized a pre-race warm-up competition for its team members, with nearly 30 top runners receiving professional coaching to ensure peak performance. One standout participant, Xu Zhonghuang from guest services at The Londoner Macao, achieved fifth place overall in the women’s 10K race and second place in her group (Group C).

The event also included exclusive runner discounts in collaboration with merchants from Rua das Estalagens, part of Sands China’s revitalization project. Participants received food and beverage vouchers in their race kits, encouraging them to explore and spend in the area – demonstrating how sports events can drive SME engagement and stimulate economic growth.

Dr Wong remarked, “We were glad to invite four local NGOs to join the race and demonstrate the spirit of inclusivity in sports and the power it has to contribute to an inclusive community, while encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

“By collaborating with the Macao SAR government and community sectors, we will continue to add brilliance to our ‘City of Sports’ through large-scale competitions, presenting a healthy and lively image of Macau.”

Sands China added that, in addition to the Macao International 10K, it has delivered a variety of sporting events over the years in partnership with the SAR Government, including badminton, fencing, golf and exhibition basketball matches, as well as community exchange activities. In October, the company will bring two NBA pre-season games to Macau, expected to generate excitement across the city and neighboring regions.