China’s running industry picks up speed

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The running market in China has been estimated to be worth 30 billion yuan, or roughly 4.5 billion US dollars. Sports companies in the country are trying to catch up with the fast-growing market as they compete for a bigger share.

In the humid and warm climate of Yan'an, in west China's Shaanxi Province, more than 5,000 runners crossed the start line of the city’s latest marathon event, held in June.

The event was part of the "Red Tour" marathon activities organized by Wisdom Sports in cooperation with the Chinese Athletic Association and CCTV Sports Channel.

Another industry player, Beetle Sports, is expanding its interest to a host of fields including sports sales, sports culture, race operations and sports business for Internet Plus.

After breaking into the market with Mud Run, the company joined hands with various industry platforms and opinion leaders to target competitors in outdoor and extreme sports, fitness experts and white-collar workers. It has also expanded into the culture and entertainment industry.

Beetle Sports is also planning to develop more special runs, further tapping into the niche market, and establish training camps and educate coaches in a bid to expand its user base.

At the same time, Wisdom Sports, with an eye on the international market, has initiated a partnership with the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism and Culture to launch a marathon themed on the Belt and Road Initiative in the Southeast Asian country.

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