China cracks down on ‘cheating’ runners after Shenzhen Half Marathon scandal

Kumming Marathon organisers say they will use facial recognition at Sunday’s race, after 258 cheats caught at event last week

China marathon
Runners compete in a half-marathon in Xiamen, Fujian province, in December 2016 
(Image credit: STR/AFP/Getty Images)

Race organisers have issued sanctions against 258 runners accused of cheating in last weekend’s Shenzhen Half Marathon in southeastern China.

Lifetime bans were handed down to 18 runners who wore fake bibs and three hired imposters, while the remaining 237 cheats – most of whom were caught taking illegal shortcuts – will be barred for up to two years.

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