Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) launched its inaugural running team this year, with over 160 runners participating in the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2026 today (18 January).
The HKMU Runner Team, comprising students, staff and alumni, infused the race with enthusiasm and demonstrated impressive preparation as they strived for excellent results. In addition, a cheering team of nearly 100 HKMU students, staff and alumni supported the runners at multiple spots along the race route, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
HKMU President Prof. Paul Lam Kwan-sing, Vice President (Administration and Corporate Development) Prof. Charles Kwong Che-leung and other senior management arrived at Victoria Park in Causeway Bay early in the morning to cheer on the HKMU runners. After the races, they congratulated the finishers and provided them with refreshments and energy drinks to aid in their recovery.
Prof. Lam emphasised that running is not just a sport but also a way to unite people and foster community spirit. He expressed his delight at the enthusiastic participation and wholehearted commitment from HKMU students, staff and alumni. He said, “I was deeply moved by the perseverance and determination of our runners, as well as the unity of the HKMU community, all striving for breakthroughs and pushing beyond limits. This perfectly aligns with the HKMU Spirit – Beyond Limits.” He encouraged the HKMU runners, highlighting that regardless of whether they achieved a personal best in the race, the most important thing was the joy of running.
Tommy Yeung Ka-ho, a Year 3 student from the Lee Shau Kee School of Business and Administration, successfully completed the half marathon for the second consecutive year. “The marathon course has many slopes, which I think symbolise the ups and downs of life. As long as you persevere, you will eventually succeed,” he said. “In the last few kilometres of the race, hearing the cheers and encouragement from the cheering team motivated me to push forward to the finish line.” Tommy believes that running is not about comparing oneself with others. The greatest achievement lies in following one's own pace and striving for a personal best.
Ms Christina Chan Wai-fong, an HKMU alumna, secured 2nd Runner-up in the Marathon Women's Master 4. She was delighted that the University has organised a running team this year, bringing together alumni through running and enhancing their sense of belonging to HKMU.
HKMU set up a booth at Victoria Park, staffed by the University's physiotherapy team, comprised of alumni and students, to offer professional treatment, post-race recovery support and consultations exclusively for HKMU runners. The booth also featured dedicated photo spots for finishers to capture their accomplishments.
This year, HKMU was once again invited by the event organiser and the Auxiliary Medical Service to provide professional treatment for marathon participants. Leveraging its expertise, a team of 14 faculty and students from the HKMU Department of Physiotherapy promptly assessed injuries and delivered targeted treatment for conditions such as cramps, muscle strains and soft tissue injuries, applying their knowledge in a real-world setting.
HKMU is committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle and encourages its students and staff to actively participate in sports as a way to enhance both physical and mental well-being, fostering vitality and positive energy across the campus. To support its Running Team members, HKMU provided exclusive runner's packs and organised a series of pre-race seminars, equipping participants with effective preparation strategies and recovery tips to help them perform their best.
