The 2026 Optics Valley Marathon is scheduled for Nov 15, with registration opening on Sept 3. This prestigious event has been certified as a Class A race by the Chinese Athletics Association and will be broadcast live on CCTV, showcasing the innovative spirit of Optics Valley of China (OVC) to a global audience and highlighting runners' determination.

The 2026 Optics Valley Marathon is set to take place on Nov 15. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

This year's marathon route will feature iconic technology landmarks, including China Information and Communication Technology Group, Huagong Tech, and the Optics Valley Skyrail Line. Runners will start at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, pass through the Optics Valley Science and Innovation Corridor, and the Optics Valley Central Ecological Corridor, running through this vibrant hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Gaoxin Avenue Station on the Optics Valley Skyrail Line. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

The marathon will continue to host the Optics Valley Marathon University Challenge, where the top five universities will earn a spot in the 2027 Wuhan Marathon Elite University Challenge. A new Corporate Team Challenge will also be introduced, allowing employees from OVC companies to participate in teams consisting of one male and one female runner, with the male completing the full marathon and the female running a half marathon.

During the event, the "Chasing Light: Fifty Years in Pictures" exhibition will be displayed at key locations such as the Optics Valley Central Ecological Corridor, offering a visual journey through OVC's evolution from a producer of optical fibers to an optics valley.