Macao International Marathon

Location: Macao
Country: China
Website: https://www.macaomarathon.com/en/
2025 Marathon Date: 07/12/2025
2026 Marathon Date: TBC
Winning Time 2025: 2:09:27
% Sub-3s: 2-5% # Sub-3s: 50-99 Total Finishers: 1-3k

The Macao International Marathon is a long-established annual road race held in the Macao Special Administrative Region, with a history dating back to 1981. It is one of the oldest international marathons in East Asia and remains a key fixture on the region’s winter marathon calendar, typically staged in early December.

The event was first organised in 1981 by the Panda Running Club, making it Macao’s first international marathon. Responsibility later transferred to the Macao Athletic Association in 1987, helping professionalise the race and expand its international reach. In 1990, the marathon became a member of the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), and since 1998 the event has consistently offered a full marathon, half marathon, and shorter race options, broadening its appeal to runners of different abilities.

The marathon course is AIMS-certified and predominantly run on paved urban roads. Both the start and finish are typically located at the Olympic Sports Centre Stadium in Taipa, providing a contained and practical hub for race operations and spectators. From there, the route forms a wide loop that takes runners across Macao’s distinct districts and islands, offering a varied urban experience rather than a single-neighbourhood circuit.

Runners pass through Taipa and Coloane, two areas that contrast sharply with Macao’s dense city centre. Taipa blends residential streets with modern developments, while Coloane offers quieter roads and more open surroundings. A defining feature of the course is its use of the bridges linking the islands, including the Governor Nobre de Carvalho Bridge and the Sai Van Bridge, which provide exposed stretches and expansive views across the water. These bridge crossings introduce noticeable elevation changes, meaning the course is not flat, but rather gently undulating with several sustained climbs and descents.

The route also highlights Macao’s historical and cultural landmarks. Sections near the A-Ma Temple, one of the city’s oldest and most significant religious sites, underline Macao’s long maritime history, while other stretches pass close to modern waterfront developments and reclaimed land.

Climatically, the race benefits from relatively mild winter temperatures, though humidity can still be a factor. Combined with the rolling profile, this makes the Macao International Marathon a course that rewards controlled pacing rather than outright speed.

With its blend of history, distinctive geography, and long-standing international status, the Macao International Marathon offers a unique marathon experience that reflects the character and complexity of the city itself.