Keelung City Government apologizes for marathon medal shortage

The Keelung City Government has issued an apology following a medal shortage during the 2026 Keelung Half Marathon. After participants completed the race in rainy conditions, it was discovered that 500 medals for the 9K category were missing, while the 3K category had an excess of 500 medals.

An investigation revealed that the error occurred during the manufacturing, packaging, and shipping process, where the quantities for the two categories were mislabeled by the vendor. The shortage initially led to online speculation regarding potential theft, but officials clarified it was a logistical error.

To rectify the situation, the city government has arranged for the production of new medals. These personalized medals, featuring the runners' names and finishing times, will be mailed free of charge to participants' designated addresses within approximately two weeks. As a gesture of apology, the city will also include a small gift consisting of a thermos and a commemorative keychain.