BEIJING, April 17, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - The booming popularity of road running
in China has "exposed problems", the country's top athletics body says, after a half marathon
went viral because of its bizarre finish.

Organisers launched an investigation after two runners from Kenya and one from Ethiopia
appeared to deliberately allow China's He Jie to win Sunday's Beijing half marathon.

He, the 2023 Asian Games marathon gold medallist, won by one second after his supposed
rivals appeared to slow down towards the finish and waved him out in front.

Kenya's Willy Mnangat told the BBC that the African trio were pacemakers, although their
bibs did not say that.

Long-distance and road running have surged in popularity among the middle class in China,
but the Chinese Athletics Association said that had presented problems.

The association met on Tuesday and afterwards issued a statement vowing to make
improvements -- without mentioning Sunday's race.

"Since the spring of 2024 road-running events have been held across the country and people
are enthusiastic about participating," the association said.

"Overall, the events have been running smoothly.

"But they have also exposed problems in event organisation and management which have
aroused widespread social concern."

It added: "The meeting pointed out that the Chinese Athletics Association will further
strengthen guidance and supervision of road-running events."