• This year’s event marked Sands China’s first time as co-organizer, together with the Sports Bureau of Macao SAR Government and the General Association of Athletics of Macau.
• Sands China has declared its ongoing commitment to enhancing the “City of Sports” by organizing large-scale sporting events.

The 2024 Sands China Macao International 10K took place on 17 March, with nearly 10,000 athletes from 48 countries and regions participating in either the 10K or the Fun Run.

Competitors started from the Sai Van Lake Square, with Fun Run participants first crossing the Sai Van Bridge to soak in the event’s atmosphere. Those in the 10K race followed, passing significant landmarks like Avenida Dr Sun Yat-Sen and Kun Iam Ecumenical Center before crossing the Sai Van Bridge to reach the finish line at the Olympic Sports Centre Stadium.

Besides enjoying the thrill of the run, participants appreciated scenic coastal views along the route and experienced Macau’s urban charm. The event was further enlivened by special performances, which boosted the ambiance.

To add an element of fun, the popular “Sands 10K Presents: The FUNkiest Costume Award” was back this year with a new “magic” theme that encouraged many participants to wear creative outfits. Ten selected contestants each received prizes worth MOP$3,500, including accommodation at The Parisian Macao and tickets to themed exhibitions.

In support of the 10K event and to encourage locals and tourists to engage in the fun of sports, the organizers set up a “FUN Kids Interactive Running Zone” at The Venetian Macao for visitors to test their fitness and concentration skills and win souvenirs.

The zone included a DIY medal workshop where participants could color their own unique 10K Run medal and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the event. Over the eight-day period, the interactive zone drew in over 2,500 participants.

In the lead-up to the race, Sands Cares Ambassadors arranged warm-up sessions at Sai Van Lake and The Venetian Macao lagoon for members of three NGOs: Macau Special Olympics (MSO), Richmond Fellowship of Macau and Bosco Youth Service Network. The ambassadors helped these NGOs become familiar with the course, ran pre-run warm-up exercises and shared long-distance running tips to help them prepare for the race.

Sands China has been title sponsor of the Macau International 10K since its inception in 2021. This year’s event marked the first time the company was a co-organizer, together with  the Sports Bureau of Macao SAR Government and the General Association of Athletics of Macau, with expenses borne by Sands China.

Dr Wilfred Wong, Executive Vice Chairman of Sands China Ltd, said, “We are proud to serve as one of the event organizers for the first time this year, playing an important role in the preparation and promotion of the competition. This year’s race saw an overwhelming response with runners from around the world [taking part], suggesting the appeal of the event is evident and its brand effect is gradually developing.

“By collaborating with the Macau SAR [government] and other community sectors, we will continue to add brilliance to the ‘City of Sports’ through large-scale competitions, presenting a healthy and lively image of Macau. Besides, we are glad to hold relevant community events to generate a fervent atmosphere throughout the city while contributing to building an inclusive community.”

Sands China explained that during preparations for the event, the company collaborated with numerous local SMEs, providing them with opportunities to accumulate experience and showcase their capabilities. This initiative aims to further expand the sports industry chain and promote the industrialization of sports in Macau.