A half-marathon themed "Striving Forward and Running into Space" was held in Beijing Aerospace City on Saturday, with participants running enthusiastically to pave the way for upcoming manned space missions.
Starting from the Beijing Aerospace Control Center (BACC), the event featured three categories: 5 kilometers, 10 kilometers, and a half-marathon, bringing together workers on the front lines of aerospace missions.
"In our usual busy days, we focus on work. Today, we have the opportunity to run together with colleagues from the space city in this beautiful autumn weather. We feel the joy of sports and share the tireless pursuit of our dreams in the aerospace sector," said Zhang Hui, a staff member at BACC.
This was the fourth half-marathon held in Beijing Aerospace City, with astronauts Liu Yang and Tang Hongbo presenting medals.
"In 2020, during our first marathon competition, we were busy with the space station mission. Now, four years later, the space station is established and operating stably in orbit. In just a few days, our team members from Shenzhou-19 will head for space to carry out their mission and meet with the Shenzhou-18 team for our fifth successful rendezvous. I believe that with the continuous efforts and advancements made by generations of aerospace workers, we will achieve even greater milestones," said Liu Yang, China's first female astronaut.
"Marathons are meaningful activities that embody the spirit of challenge, surpassing limits, perseverance, and never giving up. These qualities are essential not only in marathons but also in all our work and in building our homeland. Ye Guangfu, Li Cong, Li Guangsu (three astronauts in Shenzhou-18), hello! Time flies, and you will return. I believe you all are in a good mood, even as strenuous missions await. We all look forward to seeing you and are ready to welcome you back with warm hugs. See you in Beijing!" said Tang Hongbo, Chinese astronaut.
Beijing Aerospace City hosts inspirational half-marathon to boost manned space missions
