This Saturday morning, Beijing was buzzing with energy as about 500 participants set off on a spirited 4.5-km run along the iconic route between the Beijing National Stadium (affectionately known as the "Bird's Nest") and the National Aquatics Center. This event is part of a series of fitness-for-all activities in the run-up to International Olympic Day on Monday.
Inspired by the legacy of the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics and the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, the race showcased the modern Olympic Movement's spirit, celebrated globally since 1948. The route, which finishes near the Beijing Olympic Museum, has long attracted both dedicated runners and curious tourists.
Former triathlete Wang Shuchuan was one of the early birds, capturing the vibrant moments on his vlog. He shared his hope of inspiring more people to embrace a healthier lifestyle through sports. Italy's Paola Marras, now working in Beijing, also joined in and remarked on the city's dynamic sports atmosphere—reminiscent of the thrilling moments during the 2022 Winter Olympics and exciting events like the China Open tennis tournament.
Olympic champions such as table tennis ace Ma Long and swimming star Zhang Yufei added their best wishes. Ma Long emphasized that regular exercise is a key to maintaining both physical and mental well-being, while Zhang Yufei reflected on her journey from Rio to Tokyo and Paris, highlighting the resilience and teamwork that make sports so inspiring.
Across the Chinese mainland, events like today’s run prove that sports are a universal language, uniting communities and energizing our lives—almost as vibrant as festivals in Mumbai or street celebrations in Jakarta! 🏃♂️✨
Get ready to join the movement and make fitness a lifelong passion this Olympic Day!
Reference(s):
Olympic Day prefaced in China with series of fitness-for-all events
cgtn.com
