Runners take part in the 2017 CFLD Beijing Marathon on Sept. 17, 2017. (Photo/Chinanews.com)
(ECNS) -- After receiving reports of illegal practices, the organizing committee for the 2017 Beijing Marathon have vowed to place a lifetime ban on those who committed fraud during the race.
Wrongdoing included running on behalf of others, participating without approval or with fake bib numbers.
The committee said these practices damage the marathon spirit and order, violate the principles of being fair and just, and create danger for other runners.
It will launch an investigation and identify the violators, promising to bar them for life from running again in the event. It will also persuade Chinese Athletics Association to take further action.
The committee said the race is not just about finishing the 42.915 km run, but an attitude about life and a form of self-accomplishment.
About 30,000 runners from 33 countries and regions participated in the event on Sunday. The race started on Tiananmen Square at 7:30 a.m. and ended at Olympic Park in the north, lasting about six hours.
Marathon races have become popular among amateurs in China amid the growing awareness of health.
