The Daning Function Zone Shanghai Jing'an Half Marathon will kick off at 7 am on March 16, with both the starting and finish lines located at Daning Park, the largest park in downtown Shanghai.

Founded in 2018, the race has grown into one of the biggest running events in Jing'an district, with more than 60 percent of participants coming from outside Shanghai.

Organized by the Sports Commission of Jing'an District and the Daning Function Zone Management Committee, this year's event is part of the Jing'an Huazhao Festival, which celebrates the vibrant season of blooming flowers.

Here are some highlights of the event:

• Starting line: Daning Park North Gate (7 am sharp!)
• Finish line: Daning Park North Gate

Race course

The course loops around Daning Park and passes through the Daning business hub along flower-lined paths. The route includes the Wanrong Road Tunnel, Daning Music Plaza, Daning Creative Center, Daning Business Center, Lingshi Road, and Pengpu town.

5km smart track

Equipped with interactive digital screens and AI data collectors, the 5-kilometer track in Daning Park provides real-time displays of runners' activity data, including distance, calories burned, step count, and running speed. It also generates leaderboards based on performance, allowing participants to directly compete with each other.

Safety

Nine supply stations, 16 medical spots, 10 ambulances, 100 rescue workers, 30 AED units, 500+ security pros, and nearly 1,000 volunteers.

Direct entry

Male runners who complete the half marathon in under 1 hour and 30 minutes and female runners who complete it in under 1 hour and 50 minutes will qualify for direct entry to events organized by the Jing'an District Athletics Association, Kyeah, or Suao Sports in the Yangtze River Delta region. Participants can choose any event within the year-long validity period.

Free laser engraving

At the finish line, free laser engraving services will be offered for medals, allowing participants to have their finishing times engraved on them.

Low carbon

Smart recycling machines will be set up at the start and finish lines, where participants can exchange recyclables for gifts.

Participants who complete the half marathon will receive a bag made from recyclable materials.

During the registration period, participants are encouraged to bring their old running T-shirt to swap for a new one.

Discounts for participants

If you are one of the over 60 percent of runners coming from out of town, you can book discounted hotel packages nearby and explore Jing'an's food, culture, and nightlife.

All runners can enjoy exclusive deals on food, parking, and shopping at more than 500 businesses across four shopping malls in the area.

Direct-entry racing slots for related road running events will be provided to consumers who meet the spending threshold at partner businesses.

Beyond the race vibes

Check out the sports-themed markets and brand pop-ups along the race course and at the finish area.