SYDNEY – The Sydney Marathon, one of the world’s seven major marathons, took place Sunday, drawing thousands of runners including Hong Kong entertainers Lin Hoi-fung and Chung Han-liang. Both stars completed the 42.2-kilometer course, with Lin celebrating at the iconic Sydney Opera House and Chung posting a time of 3 hours, 55 minutes, and 50 seconds.
Lin, known for his passion for running, crossed the finish line and recorded a video message in front of the Opera House. Rather than dwell solely on his athletic achievement, he used the moment to promote his upcoming performance. “Right now I’m at the Opera Theater,” he said with a laugh, “but I’ll be at another theater soon—the Xiqu Centre in West Kowloon—to meet everyone.”
Reflecting on the race, Lin noted it was “less difficult than expected.” He explained, “People talked about this being a hellish course, but the weather was great, the atmosphere was great, the temperature was great. Sure, there were lots of ups and downs—just like life, you don’t really need so many ups and downs—but I got through it. My time was faster than I anticipated. OK, that’s fine.”
Chung Han-liang, another Hong Kong actor and singer, also tackled the demanding Sydney route. He expressed satisfaction with his sub-four-hour finish, joking about the course’s elevation changes. “It was very high,” he said, smiling. “I felt like I never ran on flat ground.”
A Course Known for Scenery and Challenge
The Sydney Marathon, which winds past landmarks such as the Harbour Bridge and the Royal Botanic Garden, is renowned for its scenic beauty but also for its rolling hills and undulating terrain. Organizers have described parts of the route as among the most challenging in any major marathon, requiring runners to manage steep ascents and descents that test both endurance and strategy.
For elite and amateur runners alike, the event offers a chance to qualify for the Abbott World Marathon Majors series, which includes Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York, and Tokyo. Sunday’s race drew participants from more than 50 countries, according to race officials.
Broader Impact and Takeaways
The participation of celebrity runners like Lin and Chung highlights the growing global appeal of marathon running, even among those with demanding professional schedules. For recreational runners, their experiences offer relatable lessons: preparation and a positive mindset can help overcome daunting course profiles.
As Lin prepares for his theater engagement in Hong Kong, he may also inspire others to lace up their running shoes. The Sydney Marathon’s mixed reputation for difficulty and beauty serves as a reminder that endurance sports mirror life’s own challenges—demanding grit, humor, and a willingness to embrace the climb.