After Ultramarathon Tragedy, China Suspends All High-Risk Sports Events

The search for victims of the ultramarathon in Gansung, China. (Source: Antara)

JAKARTA - Chinese authorities have suspended all ultramarathon events and other high-risk sports, following the tragedy that 21 runners died in an ultramarathon last month.

The tragedy that occurred in Gansu Province sparked public anger over lax industry standards, as well as weak government regulations that resulted in casualties.

Last Wednesday, the Chinese Government through the General Administration of Sports announced it would stop all high-risk sporting events that do not have a clear regulatory body, set rules and safety standards through its website.

"Sports suspended include mountain and desert running, wingsuit flying and long-distance racing," the statement said.

The government did not specify how long the suspension would last, but said it was looking in detail at the country's sporting activities to improve the regulatory system, strengthen standards and rules and improve safety.

The announcement also ordered local authorities not to hold any sporting competitions unless necessary. And, cancel all events that pose a safety risk, ahead of the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Communist Party on July 1.

Authorities did not say how many races would be affected by the suspension. According to the China Athletics Association, there were 481 trail races and 25 ultramarathons in 2019.

To note, marathon and trail racing suddenly popular along with the increase in the middle class in China. Unfortunately, industry players say this is not followed by good organization to security measures and emergency planning.

Meanwhile, such competitions are held in areas that are usually remote, far from the crowds. The incident then took place in Gansu, one of the poorest areas in China.