A shocking scene unfolded at the Hong Kong Marathon as a man ran with a baby secured to his chest, sparking a police investigation and widespread outrage.
Images quickly circulated online, showing the runner navigating the course with the infant strapped in a harness, the baby’s tiny puffy coat adorned with the man’s race number.
The baby’s position shifted in different photos – sometimes facing outward, taking in the sights, and other times nestled inward, close to the runner’s chest, though his hand appeared to offer support to the child’s neck.
Despite the seemingly protective gesture, a wave of concern erupted on social media, with many condemning the act as recklessly endangering the child.
Race officials intervened approximately nine miles into the 26.2-mile marathon, halting the runner and demanding he withdraw from the competition after becoming aware of the situation.
Tracking data revealed the man started with the first wave of runners at 6:25 a.m., completing nearly a third of the race before being stopped two hours and twenty minutes later.
Authorities have contacted a man from Guangxi, China, regarding the incident, though it remains unconfirmed if he is the individual involved.
Organizers of the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon confirmed the runner’s disqualification, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety regulations.
“Runners must refrain from any actions that could pose a danger to themselves or others,” stated the Hong Kong, China Association of Athletics Affiliates, reinforcing their commitment to participant safety.
Beyond disqualification, the runner has been banned from participating in future events organized by the association, a decisive measure to underscore the seriousness of the infraction.
