China suspends unregulated sports after deadly ultramarathon

Author: AFP

China on Wednesday said it would suspend all sports competitions that lack national safety standards, after extreme weather at an ultramarathon killed twenty-one runners and sparked calls for more regulation.

Beijing’s General Administration of Sport said that events suspended included mountain trail running, wingsuit flying and ultra-long distance running.

They did not say how long the suspension would last, and it is unclear whether athletes will still be allowed to train while it is in effect.

Long-distance running and other extreme sports are booming in China as the government heavily promotes exercise for all ages.

But safety concerns have plagued poorly-regulated competitions that have sprung up across the country.

Those concerns came to a head last month, when a 100-kilometre (60-mile) cross-country mountain race in the northwestern province of Gansu turned deadly as freezing rain, high winds and hail hit the competitors.

It raised questions over why organisers apparently ignored the incoming extreme weather and led to renewed calls for tighter laws surrounding sporting events.

Regulators in response promised to “conduct a comprehensive review of sports events… and improve standards and regulations.”

Share
Leave a Comment

Recent Posts

  • Lifestyle

Hania opens up about her dark childhood

Pakistan showbiz's A-lister Hania Aamir opened up on her dark childhood which eventually led to…

6 hours ago
  • Lifestyle

Alhamra hosts exhibition to commemorate Quaid-e-Azam’s birth anniversary

To honour the birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Lahore Arts Council, Alhamra,…

6 hours ago
  • Uncategorized

Noor Jehan remembered on 24th death anniversary

The 24th death anniversary of legendary singer Malka-e-Tarannum Noor Jehan was observed on Monday. Noor…

6 hours ago
  • Lifestyle

Mahira Khan feels humbled to get loving birthday messages as she turns 40

Mahira Khan turns 40 as fans flood comments box with messages wishing her a happy…

6 hours ago
  • Lifestyle

Khaqan Shahnawaz draws ire for age shaming Kareena

Actor Khaqan Shahnawaz faced backlash from Kareena Kapoor's fans after jokingly suggesting he could play…

6 hours ago
  • Lifestyle

Feroze Khan challenges UAE comedian Rahim for fight in boxing ring

Actor Feroze Khan has announced stepping into professional boxing. Following his role as a boxer…

6 hours ago