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| Lin Chiling criticised after marathon appearance in Hong Kong sparks debate over celebrity conduct on public race routes. (Credits: Sohu) |
Lin Chiling criticised for “Turning Marathon Into Runway”. Lin Chi-ling has come under scrutiny after her appearance at a Hong Kong marathon drew criticism from online viewers, with footage of the Taiwanese supermodel walking ahead of runners prompting claims she disrupted the flow of the race.
The 51-year-old joined a 2km segment of the Sohu News Marathon, where she was seen moving at a leisurely pace while engaging with the crowd, a moment that quickly circulated online and divided opinion over celebrity presence at public sporting events.
Dressed in an all-white athletic ensemble styled with a mini skirt, Lin Chiling delivered exactly the polished image expected of one of Asia’s most recognisable supermodels.
In clips widely shared across social media, she appeared relaxed and upbeat, even adding a playful hand dance while walking ahead of a dense group of participants.
However, what was intended as a light, high-profile appearance soon became a talking point for less flattering reasons.
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| Supermodel Lin Chiling Draws Flak After “Slow Walk” Sparks Bottleneck at Charity Run. (Sohu) |
Critics argued that her pace and positioning created an unnecessary bottleneck, with some suggesting the segment resembled a staged walk rather than part of a competitive run.
Remarks ranged from dry humour to sharper jabs, with several users questioning whether the event had effectively paused for a celebrity moment.
Others took aim at the perceived mismatch between the spirit of a marathon and the optics of a slow, stylised walk. Comments mocking the pace circulated widely, with some suggesting it would take hours to complete a full course at that speed, while others accused her of “blocking the way” for runners behind.
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| Yahoo |
Yet the reaction was far from unanimous. Supporters pointed out that Lin Chiling was participating in a short, non-competitive segment and attending as part of a wider promotional and charitable event.
Some defended her presence as bringing visibility and glamour to the marathon, arguing that such appearances are common in high-profile runs.
The event itself drew significant attention, not least due to the presence of several well-known figures.
Zhang Chaoyang, founder and chief executive of Sohu, was seen running alongside Lin Chiling for the opening stretch.
Other celebrities, including Huang Xiaoming, Charlene Choi, Bosco Wong, Ray Lui, and Sheren Tang, also took part, underlining the marathon’s status as both a sporting and media event.
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| Yahoo |
Organisers noted that the Sohu News Marathon, launched in 2015, has previously been staged in locations such as Beijing, Qinghai Lake and Sanya, with its Hong Kong edition positioned as part of broader celebrations ahead of the 30th anniversary of the city’s return next year.
The city’s climate and established fitness culture were cited as key reasons for hosting the event there.
Beyond the race, Lin Chiling maintained a packed schedule, attending a brand engagement the evening prior before joining the marathon the following morning.
She later spoke candidly about balancing work, family and personal wellbeing, sharing that she remains mindful of fitness while managing a busy lifestyle that includes parenting and charity work.
She also used the occasion to address younger audiences, encouraging women to build confidence, independence and resilience early in life. Her comments focused on maintaining both emotional balance and physical health, alongside cultivating a broader worldview.
Was this simply a harmless celebrity cameo, or a misjudged moment in a setting that demands a different pace?