The world’s first half-marathon featuring both robotic and human participants concluded in Beijing on Saturday. 20 robot teams from domestic universities, research institutes and enterprises took part in the competition. The global media gave this event attention and interest comparable to that of the Olympic Games. The Times of India hailed the event as “making history,” while Newsweek called it “historic,” and CNN humorously remarked that “humans still at least have the upper hand when it comes to running.” Obviously, even some picky Western media outlets were impressed by the spirit of exploration, progress and technological optimism demonstrated by this unique half-marathon.
Some experts said after the race that the purpose of holding the robot “half-marathon” is not to “add drama” to the industry, but to conduct a very basic “physical test” on humanoid robots. For a humanoid robot of standard size, the 21-kilometer journey requires approximately 250,000 precision joint movements alone. This is “a maximum test for joint accuracy, thermal management, power supply system, control algorithms, communication interference and other issues.” Therefore, it is called a technical coming-of-age ceremony for humanoid robots, marking their transition “from laboratory to asphalt road.” Testing scientific and technological achievements through “sports competitions” that possess both experimental value and entertainment, while discovering problems and making improvements from them, has become a new approach in China’s technological development.
Some scenes on the field were impressive. The “Tornado Boy” lost his head in the last 100 meters, the “Little Giant” ran cutely, and some robots fell down many times but kept getting up. Some netizens teased that “this is the robot version of a toddler learning how to walk.”
Although the participating robots encountered various problems and the final completion rate was only 30 percent, both human players, the on-site audience, as well as public opinion, encouraged the technology companies and robot players who dared to participate. The phrase “Come on, robots” echoed throughout the event. Behind this “imperfect” robot half-marathon is the mature atmosphere of tolerance, understanding and acceptance of failure that has developed in Chinese society from top to bottom toward the high-tech industry, which fosters high-quality conditions for cultivating and encouraging innovation subjects to continuously unleash their innovation momentum.
The unedited live broadcast of the humanoid robot half-marathon has demonstrated China’s openness and confidence in developing high-tech industries. The champion and runner-up were from two startups established only in 2023. The competition authentically showcased the stages of China’s robotic technology development, revealing the determination and innovative vitality of young tech companies, as well as the diligence and pursuit of excellence of Chinese researchers. Through the competition, some foreign enterprises also expressed strong interest in China’s robotics industry and hope to participate in future collaborations. China’s technological exploration not only serves its own interests but also provides a platform for communication and learning for the world.
The marathon is a unique competitive sport, and its spirit embodies resilience and a long-term commitment to never give up. Participating is victory, and finishing the race makes one a hero. Every runner participating in a marathon, regardless of their final time, is a victor who overcomes their own limits when they cross the finish line and deserves applause.
China’s exploration in the field of robotics is also a long-term journey. Although it started late, Chinese researchers have remained steadfast on the long road of independent research and development. China’s goal in developing robotics is not to compete with any other major power but to continually challenge itself, surpass limits, and benefit humanity.
In this process, Chinese researchers focus on their own path, addressing the opportunities and challenges faced by humanity, and breaking through the barriers of zero-sum games with a mind-set of win-win cooperation.
From a broader perspective, the progress of human society is akin to a marathon. Whether it’s technological innovation or social change, humanity continually inherits the experiences of their predecessors while paving the way for the future. Different ethnic groups and nations share the same track, coexisting amid diversity and driving overall progress through collaboration. Completing the humanoid robot half-marathon is not the end but the starting point for industrial development and mutual exchange.
This “global first run” leaves behind insights that are far more valuable than medals: On the path of technological innovation, no one can advance alone; only by working together can we achieve true breakthroughs and development. GT
