SHANGHAI -- The Shanghai Half Marathon, which was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year, will return on April 18, the organizers announced on Wednesday.

With a total distance of 21.0975 kilometers, this year's route starts from Fenghe Road, Pudong New Area, ending at the Shanghai Oriental Sports Center, which covers scenic spots, including the Lujiazui area, the 2010 World Expo site and the New Bund Leisure Park.

According to the organizers, the application channel will be accessible on the official website until March 26 noon. The result of the draw will be released on March 30, with around 6,000 runners to be picked.

To meet the demand for pandemic prevention and control, no foreign elites will be invited this year. Meanwhile, all the participants must submit valid nucleic acid test reports before the event.

The organizers will set up 21 medical service spots and arrange 20 ambulances along the route. Runners will find a water station every five kilometers, and each finisher will be gifted a food package for energy supply.