Please check our guide for participating in the Northern Marathon丨2026 Northern Marathon!
1 day to the start of the 2026 Bank of China Beijing Marathon and National Marathon Championships
In order to help every athlete perform their best in Sunday's competition and complete the race safely and smoothly, the organizing committee specially presents this exclusive competition guide covering the entire track.
Read and save this article carefully before the race, and you will master every detail from Tiananmen Square to the scenic avenue in the central area of the Olympic Park - start calmly, finish the race safely, and run your own 42.195 kilometers in late autumn Beijing.
Note: The full text is 6,000+ words, long, and the estimated reading time is 16 minutes01
01 Weather conditions
According to the forecast of the meteorological department, the weather in urban Beijing on the competition day (October 18) will be fine with excellent visibility (more than 10 kilometers). However, special attention should be paid to the fact that the day before the game (17th) Beijing will experience an obvious rainfall process, mainly stable rainfall, with the city's average rainfall of 35-50 mm.
The weather will be sunny from morning to noon (07:00-14:00) on the competition day, with northerly wind around level 3 (gust level 5), and temperature of 14-19℃.
Specific forecast
Night of October 17th:
Cloudy with light rain turning sunny, northerly wind around level 3, gust around level 6, temperature 14-15℃, visibility 2-6km.
Competition day, October 18:
It was sunny during the day, with northerly wind around level 3 (gust level 5), temperature 19°C, and visibility >10km.
Sunny at night, northerly wind level 1-2, temperature 6℃, visibility >8km.
▲Real-time weather forecast along the race route on October 18
Tips
◎ The temperature will be about 14°C when the race starts in the morning, with northerly winds around level 3 and gusts up to level 5. Athletes are advised to take precautions against wind and cold before the race. They can prepare old clothes or disposable raincoats in advance to keep warm. If you need to discard old clothes or raincoats before starting the race, please pass them outside the track (please tie the raincoats in advance), hand them to environmental volunteers or throw them into the designated raincoat and used clothes recycling place. Do not throw them away at will.
◎ Equipment: It is recommended to wear professional sportswear, running shoes and appropriate socks. Before the race, the organizing committee will conduct a clothing inspection at the starting point. Equipment for reference includes: lightweight long-sleeved T-shirt or short-sleeved T-shirt + arm sleeves, compression pants, lightweight gloves (optional), full-top hat, magic headscarf, etc. Try to avoid wearing new shoes as there is a risk of grinding your feet.
◎ Diet: The diet before the competition follows the principle of three less and one more - less gas production, small size, less oil and crude fiber, and more calories. Make sure you eat the right amount of carbohydrates and high-quality protein, such as whole wheat bread, oatmeal and hard-boiled eggs, to provide your body with energy. Try to ensure that you finish eating 2 hours before the game (5:30).
◎ Before the race: Please warm up fully after entering the starting point assembly area, focusing on moving your joints and stretching your muscles. The temperature in the morning is about 14°C, and the warm-up time is recommended to be 8 to 10 minutes. Please grasp the warm-up time and do not warm up too early and cause your body to cool down.
◎ During the race: Reasonably control the pace in the starting stage to allow the body to adapt to the running rhythm as soon as possible. During the race, it is necessary to fully replenish water and energy at drinking water stations and supply stations in a timely manner. At the same time, please always pay attention to your physical condition and do not force yourself to participate. When you experience physical discomfort such as dizziness, abdominal pain, general weakness, sore legs, etc., please stop the race immediately and seek help from medical staff and volunteers beside the track.
◎ After the game: In order to prevent hypothermia and cold caused by the rapid cooling of the body after the game, it is recommended to prepare dry spare clothes in advance before the game. You can choose quick-drying underwear and training clothes with good thermal insulation and breathability, dry your body with a dry towel as soon as possible after the game, change into dry clothes, and replenish moisture, electrolytes and heat in a timely manner.
02 Starting point strategy
starting position
Tiananmen Square
match date
October 18
Admission and starting information
Screenshot from the "Beijing Marathon" WeChat official account
Transportation information to the starting point
·Take Metro Line 2, get off at Hepingmen Station, exit from Exit B, and walk for 20-30 minutes to the Tiananmen Square Athletes Entrance.
·Take Metro Line 2, get off at Qianmen Station, exit B or C, and walk for 20-25 minutes to the Tiananmen Square Athletes Entrance.
·Take Metro Line 8, get off at Qianmen Station, exit E, I or G, and walk for 20-25 minutes to the Tiananmen Square Athletes Entrance.
Admission process
Admission notes
1. Athletes must undergo bib number inspection, identity verification and security inspection before entering the starting point. Please plan your time to go to the starting point. It is recommended to enter at least before 7:00.
2 Athletes must wear and present the 2026 Bank of China Beijing Marathon and National Marathon Championship event bib correctly when entering the venue. If not presented correctly, the staff and event security personnel have the right to confiscate the non-event bib and refuse entry to the athlete.
3 Athletes are requested to follow the instructions of on-site staff and conduct safety inspections in an orderly manner.
4 Athletes must strictly abide by Beijing's public security laws and regulations and relevant regulations on event organization. Illegal propaganda slogans and slogans, knives, guns, flammable and explosive and other prohibited dangerous goods and liquids, flagpoles, advertising banners, selfie sticks, etc. are prohibited from entering Tiananmen Square, the starting point of the competition. Tricycles, trolleys, bicycles and other means of transportation are prohibited from entering the square.
5 It is recommended that athletes wear the official uniforms of the 2026 Bank of China Beijing Marathon and National Marathon Championships.
6. Athletes are asked to stick the small event number cloth in the designated position of the pocket, with the number facing outward. The deadline for depositing bags at the starting point is 7:15. Athletes please pay attention and arrange your time accordingly.
7. Athletes are requested not to store valuables in their bags (such as mobile phones, valid documents, large amounts of cash, various keys, credit cards, electronic products, etc.). If damaged or lost, the consequences will be borne by the athletes themselves.
8 All athletes must be inspected according to the area corresponding to the first letter of the bib number. If the number bib is not worn correctly or the number is not checked in the corresponding area as required, the referee has the right to refuse entry to the athlete.
9 Smoking is prohibited in Tiananmen Square, and pets are not allowed to enter the square.
10 Athletes are advised to evacuate properly before departure. Open defecation is strictly prohibited in non-toilet areas within the square. If violated, the organizing committee will confiscate the athlete's bib number on site and disqualify him or her from participating. Before starting the race, athletes are asked to cooperate with the environmental volunteers in each assembly area to throw away garbage such as peelings, paper scraps, water cups and bottles, and masks into designated classification trash bins to prevent athletes behind them from tripping when running in.
11 Optimization of the bag storage area at the starting point: In order to improve the athletes' competition experience, this event adopted a mixed bag storage model and optimized the layout of the bag storage area, which effectively broadened the traffic space and greatly improved the bag storage efficiency. The centralized arrangement of the bag deposit cars optimizes the flow of activities. After completing the bag deposit, athletes can go directly to the assembly area from the nearest entrance, effectively reducing the detour distance. In addition, a "dedicated channel for athletes without baggage deposits" has been specially added on site to ensure that contestants with different needs can quickly complete pre-match assembly through the optimal path.
Zonal inspection station
Starting point area map
03 Tips along the way
Game time and closing time
◎ This competition is equipped with timing mats at the starting point, every 5 kilometers point, half-kilometer point, turnaround point and end point. The timing chip will start timing when the athletes pass the starting point timing mat. Athletes must pass through all timing mats during their run. Results that complete the competition within the cut-off time but lack any timing point will not be ranked. The performance rankings of non-winning athletes will be based on net time.
◎ In order to ensure the safety of athletes during the competition, segmented closing times will be set according to kilometer points on the competition route, and social traffic will be temporarily controlled by road sections and times. The closing time is calculated based on natural time. After the closing time is reached, the timing mat at the corresponding kilometer point will stop working, and social traffic will resume on the corresponding road section. Athletes who have not reached the corresponding kilometer point must exit the track to avoid danger. Athletes who have withdrawn from the track can take a collection vehicle at the nearest collection station along the route, or take public transportation to the finish line to pick up their bags.
bathroom
The organizing committee will set up mobile restrooms at the starting point, along the competition route (every 2.5 kilometers, 14 kilometers and 16 kilometers from 1 kilometer, 2 kilometers, 3 kilometers, 4 kilometers, 5 kilometers to the finish line) and at the finish line.
environmental protection
Athletes are not allowed to defecate in public at the starting point, along the competition route and in non-toilet areas at the end, and are not allowed to discard any wrapping paper, bottles, masks and other garbage at will. During the competition, athletes must abide by Beijing's relevant management regulations on garbage classification and jointly protect the environment.
Track function site
Track supplies
◎ The red supply table can only be used by specially invited and championship athletes designated by the organizing committee. Athletes are strictly prohibited from taking any items from the red supply table. Violators will be directly disqualified from the competition.
◎ In order to actively implement the concept of green and sustainable competition, the organizing committee distributed reusable "environmentally friendly water cups" to participating athletes before the competition. At the same time, each supply station will be equipped with multi-faucet self-service supply buckets and mobile backpack water supply equipment to meet the diverse supply needs of participating athletes.
◎ The supply tables at each functional site adopt a staggered layout and are arranged alternately according to functions. The supply station alternates between drinking water and beverages, and the drinking water station alternates between drinking water and wet sponges.
◎ In order to facilitate athletes to reasonably plan the supply rhythm, the organizing committee will set up distance reminder signs at the remaining 2/3 and 1/3 of the total length of each functional station.
medical aid
◎ The organizing committee will set up fixed medical stations at the starting point and finish line. Fixed medical stations will be set up every 2.5 kilometers from 5 kilometers to 32.5 kilometers (inclusive) along the race route. Starting from 34 kilometers (inclusive), fixed medical stations will be set up every 1 kilometer. The on-site medical staff has the right to stop the athlete from continuing to compete and collect his number bib based on the athlete's physical condition; if the athlete does not follow the medical staff's advice, all consequences and responsibilities arising from insisting on participating will be borne by the athlete himself.
◎ The organizing committee will provide AED medical rescue services to athletes during the competition and arrange a certain number of first-aid runners to assist in rescue operations.
◎ The organizing committee will set up medical service points and medical observers along the track to maintain competition order and assist with rescue operations. Athletes can request help from them at any time.
◎ If you encounter an emergency along the track, you can call the emergency hotline 120 at any time.
Notes on not finishing the race
◎ If athletes are unable to complete the race, they can take the bus to the finish line to pick up their bags at the reception stations along the track. Athletes who are accommodated should cooperate with the referee to register personal information and mark it on the athlete's bib.
◎ Athletes who arrive at the finish line by the organizing committee’s storage vehicle should follow the prescribed route to the bag collection area to pick up their stored clothing. Athletes who are institutionalized will not be able to receive finisher bags and finisher medals. If you claim falsely, the organizing committee will consider the seriousness of the case and impose relevant penalties in accordance with the competition regulations.
Competition route map
04 End point strategy
STEP1 Receive completion items
End location: Olympic Center District Landscape Avenue
◎ After crossing the finish line, in order to ensure the safety of athletes, finishers are asked not to stop at the arch. They should follow the guidance of the on-site staff to go forward to collect the finishing items and pass quickly.
◎ Before collecting the completion items, the organizing committee will verify the athlete’s identity and the authenticity of the number bib. Athletes who finish the race should line up in an orderly manner to receive their finisher bags and medals, and please maintain a safe social distance. If you use an invalid bib number or a bib number that is not for this event to receive the completion items, the staff has the right to refuse to issue them.
STEP2 Get the package
All athletes must go to the designated area at the finish line to collect their stored items before 14:30. If you do not collect it after the collection time on the day, you can collect it from the event organizing committee within one week after the competition with the bib number of this competition. Otherwise, the organizing committee will treat it as unclaimed.
STEP3 Completion Service
The organizing committee has set up a post-match experience area on the south side of the bag collection area. Athletes can go there on their own after collecting their deposited items.
STEP4 Terminal Transportation
Athletes can walk south from the post-match area to Exit B2 of the Olympic Sports Center Station of Metro Line 8. The organizing committee also arranged a shuttle bus at Beichen Road, east of Exit D of the Olympic Sports Center Station, to Beitucheng Station, the transfer station for Metro Line 8 and Line 10. Athletes can take the shuttle bus for free with their event bibs.
finish area map
05 Other tips
civility initiative
civilized measures
1 Optimize garbage recycling: Add eye-catching “garbage recycling pools” at the start and finish points and along the track, and deploy sufficient cleaning forces to ensure a clean environment.
2. Add clothing recycling: Add "raincoat and debris recycling points" at the entrances of each gathering area at the starting point, and deploy "raincoat recycling volunteers" to provide services and advocate resource recycling.
3 Improve toilet security: Comprehensively upgrade the restroom configuration of the event. The total number of toilet spaces at the starting point, along the track and at the finish area has been greatly increased to 1,630, and the ratio of toilet seats to 1:20 has been optimized to provide athletes with a more convenient and hygienic service environment.
4. Add civilized guidance: Add key positions of "Civilized Guidance Volunteer" to provide order maintenance and civilized persuasion services at key points on the field.
5. Freeze civilized moments: Official photographers will be set up along the route to provide free professional photo and video services to all participating athletes to capture your fighting spirit and civilized style on the track.
Civilized participation
1. Please start in an orderly manner and abide by the zoning and inspection order.
2. When entering supply stations and drinking/water stations, please give way to others and slow down and pull over in advance.
3. If you encounter an athlete who falls or feels unwell on the track, please help him immediately and notify medical and staff members.
4 Please be sure to maintain the track environment and throw the starting raincoat, track water cup, energy gel packaging, etc. into the garbage pool.
5 Please use the temporary toilets set up along the way to defecate in a civilized manner and do not defecate in the open.
6 Please wear professional sportswear and running shoes to compete.
7 Please avoid stopping suddenly, turning around, or taking photos while driving in the opposite direction on the track to avoid affecting the safety of others.
8 Please respect the guidance of referees, volunteers, security and other track staff.
9. In the event of an emergency, please cooperate with the evacuation department and give priority to emergency vehicles.
10 Please avoid excessive requests for supplies, insist on fair competition, and do not use any illegal means.
Watch the game in a civilized manner
1 Spectators are requested to carry forward the spirit of Beijing and cheer for participating athletes in a civilized manner.
2 Please go to designated civilized viewing points to watch the game.
3. Please avoid intruding onto the track while watching the race, and do not throw any objects onto the track.
4 Please cheer in a civilized manner, create a positive, healthy and enthusiastic atmosphere, and do not make uncivilized gestures or display any banners, slogans, etc. that may affect the image of the event.
5. Please follow the instructions of on-site staff, volunteers and security and watch the game in an orderly manner; in case of emergency, please cooperate with us.
6. When watching the game, please remain polite, cheer rationally, and avoid using high-decibel amplification equipment to interfere with the performance of athletes.
7 Please take care of the public environment and avoid littering, climbing guardrails or occupying emergency passages.
8 Please take good care of event facilities and urban public facilities, and do not steal or rob event materials or interfere with the order of material distribution and recycling.
Instructions for use of number cloth and chip
▲Please fill in the information on the back of your number bib truthfully before the race
Precautions for using timing chips
1 The timing chip has been pasted on the back of the number bib. Please wear the bib with the chip on your chest. Failure to wear the number bib correctly as required may result in no race results.
2. During the competition, please do not cover the number bib with the chip attached with clothing, backpacks and other items or other parts of the body such as arms, otherwise there may be no competition results.
3. During the competition, you must pass over the timing mat set up by the organizing committee, otherwise there will be no competition results.
4 Please do not fold the chip or remove the protective foam on the chip, otherwise there will be no competition results.
official pacer
The official pacers for the 2026 Bank of China Beijing Marathon and National Marathon Championships have now been assembled. After layers of checks and screenings, 80 experienced official pacers have provided leading services for the athletes.
The pacers are divided into 16 groups, namely 2 hours 45 minutes, 2 hours 50 minutes, 2 hours 55 minutes, 3 hours, 3 hours 10 minutes, 3 hours 20 minutes, 3 hours 30 minutes, 3 hours 45 minutes, 4 hours, 4 hours 15 minutes, 4 hours 30 minutes, 4 hours 45 minutes, 5 hours, 5 hours 15 minutes, 5 hours 30 minutes and 6 hours finishing group.
Before the race, the organizing committee also held a training meeting for the official pacers of the Northern Marathon, analyzing and communicating on key issues in the leading session, route conditions, weather conditions, etc., and strived to provide meticulous and thoughtful leading services for the majority of athletes.
On the day of the competition, the pacers will wear uniform pacer equipment, carry backpack-style flags, and wear bibs indicating their respective leading times, serving the athletes with professionalism and enthusiasm.
Athletes can pay attention to the pacer signs at the starting point and along the way, and choose a suitable time period to follow according to their abilities. If you experience any emergencies such as physical discomfort, you can seek help from the pacer in time.
Here, the organizing committee wishes that the athletes can break through themselves with the help of the pacers and complete the race safely and smoothly. At the same time, it also expresses its gratitude to every official pacer for their efforts.
06 Answers to hot comment questions
Do I have to use the soft water cup provided by the organizing committee in the competition bag?
Can drinking water at the track only be collected by self-service?
No! Both traditional supplies (paper cups) and self-service supplies (bring your own soft water cup) on the track are OK!
This year, traditional supply and independent supply will run in parallel on the track. Athletes who are not used to independent supply can continue to use traditional supply. You can choose between the two methods according to your needs ~
The method of using self-replenishment is very simple: the self-service replenishment area on the track is equipped with multi-faucet self-service water buckets and backpack-style water supply services provided by volunteers. You can pick up water and drink it immediately.
The scope of use and validity period of the no-deposit subway card
This year's custom-designed "Northern Malaysia Metro Commemorative Card" is a one-time card. The card is only issued to athletes who checked the "no package" option when registering. It has been issued along with the number bib when picking up the items.
⚠️Metro card can be used once
⚠️The scope of use is the one-pass rail transit lines in Beijing except the Capital Airport Line and Daxing Airport Line, with no limit on the number of stations and no limit on the amount.
⚠️The metro card is valid until October 13, 2027.
but! ! ! ⚠️If you want to keep it as a souvenir, be sure not to insert the card into the gate when exiting the station. Just swipe the card above the gate and exit.
I didn’t choose “no bag deposit” when registering, but I didn’t bring my bag on the actual race day. Can I go through the no bag channel when entering the starting point?
OK! There are a total of 90 identity verification channels in the starting area, of which the three easternmost ones (No. 88, 89, and 90) are dedicated no-bag lanes. Regardless of whether you choose "no bag deposit" when registering, on the day of the competition, as long as you do not carry a backpack with you, you can follow the signage or ask volunteers to go to the no-bag dedicated lanes No. 88-90 for quick entry without queuing to deposit bags.
If you wear old clothes to keep warm early in the morning on game day
Is there a place to discard it?
some! Used clothing can be dropped off at designated recycling locations in the starting staging area. The organizing committee also encourages everyone to use old clothes instead of disposable raincoats to keep warm, which can not only meet the need for warmth before the game, but is also more environmentally friendly.
Do I need to carry my ID card with me on game day?
If you have entered your face through the face recognition device at the expo site, you do not need to bring your ID card on the day of the competition and can enter directly through the face recognition channel at the starting point. If the face entry is not completed through the face recognition device at the expo site, the ID card must be carried with you on the competition day. In addition, the number cloth (containing a timing chip) is also a voucher for entry and recording results.
Learn more about the event
Scan the QR code below
Read the official manual electronically
finally
Best wishes to all participating athletes
Finish the race safely and smoothly
