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The Chinatown Dragon Marathon is a 26.2-mile road race set for Sunday, February 8, 2025, coinciding with the Chinese New Year festivities (Year of the Snake) to maximize cultural vibrancy. The event starts and finishes in the heart of London’s Chinatown, showcasing its colorful streets, restaurants, and festive decorations. The course extends through central London, passing iconic landmarks, with entertainment and cheer zones inspired by ball game Chinese traditions, such as dragon dances and lantern displays. The marathon aims to attract 10,000 runners, raise funds for local charities, and celebrate cultural diversity.

Course Details

The 26.2-mile course starts on Gerrard Street in Chinatown, loops through central London, and returns to Chinatown for a grand finish. Key highlights:

• Start (Mile 0): Gerrard Street, under a giant dragon arch, with lion dancers and firecrackers.
• Miles 1-3: Run through Soho, passing Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square.
• Miles 4-8: Head toward Westminster, passing Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.
• Miles 9-13: Cross the Thames via Westminster Bridge, run along the South Bank, passing the London Eye and Southbank Centre.
• Miles 14-18: Loop through the City of London, passing St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London.
• Miles 19-22: Head east to Canary Wharf, then back along the Thames path.
• Miles 23-26.2: Return via Embankment, pass Buckingham Palace, and re-enter Chinatown via Shaftesbury Avenue, finishing on Wardour Street under a lantern-lit canopy.

Terrain: Flat, paved roads with minimal elevation gain (approx. 200 feet), ideal for fast times.

Aid Stations: Every 2 miles, offering water, energy gels, and dim sum-inspired snacks (e.g., bao buns).

Toilets: Available at the start, finish, and every even-numbered mile, with accessible options.

Runner Perks

Medal: A dragon-shaped medal with a red ribbon, symbolizing good fortune.

T-Shirt: High-quality, breathable shirt with a dragon design.

Post-Race Treats: Free bubble tea and a pork bao for finishers, plus discounts at Chinatown restaurants.

App Support: Official app with route tracking, live splits, and audio cheers in Mandarin and English.