2008 RSA Jinqiao 8K series successfully wrapped up

04.24.2008

The 2008 RSA Jinqiao 8K was successfully wrapped up in Pudong on April 20, with an incredible 4,000 avid runners turning up to compete.

The record-high number of participants for this event triggered fierce competition among its runners, particularly among those braving the 8K run.

Groups of friends, families and co-workers turned out in their hordes to not only enjoy the event but also to spend a memorable weekend together. The family scenes were as usual a pleasure to see; plus those in fancy dress helped to create a great atmosphere. A variety of fresh and innovative ideas added to events previous years experience. All top three runners of each category were awarded fabulous prizes, while each participant received a commemorative medal.

The event received huge support from varying parties, including RSA, celebrating it’s 3 rd year as title sponsor of the 8K series. Organizers, S2M Group, brought together great brands like Decathlon, Ford, Element Fresh, Megafit, ICS, Pocari Sweat, ParkwayHealth, Holiday Inn, Cityweekend, and Shanghai Star, helping to enhance the profile and spirit of the event. After finishing the 8K run, Mike Jakeman, CEO of RSA's company in China,Sun Alliance Insurance (China) Ltd, encouragingly commented that, “getting more people active and engaged through running is an important reason for our sponsorship. My wife and son are both avid runners and also participated today, sharing in a great family occasion.”

The 8K series has seen rapid growth for 7 consecutive years since its debut in 2001, becoming a red hot event in the Shanghai running calendar. In the principle of supporting healthy sport to all, RSA and S2M Group donated 10% of the total registration fee to the Special Olympics China. It was great to see such a large following from the special education schools and their families at the event, helping to change attitudes towards children with special needs.

With over 30,000 runners crossing the finish line in Jinqiao since its opening race 7 years ago, the RSA Jinqiao 8K series has received huge attention and warm welcome from the people of Shanghai. Witnessing and fundamental to the events huge success was Mark Thomas, Managing Director of S2M Group and founder of the run, ”What it harvests today shows that the notion of healthy running has been successfully promoted and we are getting rewarded from our endless efforts, it’s really exciting. My co-workers and I have been engaged in popularizing such a healthy lifestyle and fun sportsmanship for years.”

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