On October 20, Tianjin Marathon 2024 was held. A total of 30,000 people ran together.

In this competition, Tianjin University’s track and field team and long-distance running association performed well. Liu Xinbei won the 9th place in the men's full marathon with time of 2:31:16, and Zhou Yongsheng won the 10th place in the men's half marathon with time of 1:14:18.

In the full marathon, Yu Changshen finished the race with 2:46:21, Yuan Zhenyang with 2:47:57, Zhou Tianhao with 2:56:39, and You Xinmiao with 2:58:57. Many TJUers participated in the half-marathon and health run events.

Runner Zhao Yuebin is a student counselor from the College of Intelligence and Computing of Tianjin University. He said: “This is my first time to participate in marathon. For me, it's not only a challenge to my physical limit, but also a fearless tribute to my youth. As a student counselor, I hope that students can actively participate in sports, maintain healthy, have the courage to try challenges, constantly break limits of themselves, and be full of enthusiasm in the most gorgeous youth and full of passion in the best time of their life!”

Runner Feng Zhanyu, a doctoral student from the School of Mechanical Engineering, said: “I walked to the starting line in 8 minutes from the end of Zone C. I met gray-haired runners and visually impaired runners on the way, and their persistence encouraged me to keep improving my pace. My original goal of 'just finishing the race' was changed to 'giving it a go'. The increase in pace brought pains. I suddenly realized that this marathon track is like our life. When you are in the middle of the runway and focus on running, you will find that there are not so many spectators. No matter how slow you run, just run at your own pace. However, when you look at the sides of the runway, you will find that there are so many spectators there, each of whom is cheering for you. In the end, I completed the marathon ahead of my schedule. Crossing the finish line was like going home, when I was surrounded by volunteers. Every enthusiastic congratulations from volunteers made most of my fatigue of 42.195 kilometers disappear.”

Runner Liu Xinbei, a master’s student from the School of Electrical and Information Engineering said: “The full marathon for me is: happiness! I was greatly inspired by the cheers of the volunteers and spectators along the way. I only ran 35km once as a training session before the race, so when I reached 39km, I felt weak and slowed down. However, the cheering on the track encouraged me and finally I stuck with it until the end. I ran the Tianjin Marathon with Tianjin University uniform, which gave me a sense of spontaneous happiness. In the end, I finished the marathon in ninth place. For me, this event is a journey of self-discovery and a challenge to my own limit. I hope that my presence on the field can drive the sports atmosphere of Tianjin University to become stronger and stronger!”

Runner Zhou Tianhao, an undergraduate from the College of Intelligence and Computing, said: “Running forward is a life style of TJUers. Tianjin Marathon is a big stage for Tianjin University people. Running on the 42.195-kilometer track, I was accompanied by the support and companionship of the partners of the Tianjin University Long-distance Running Association, the considerate help of student counselors, and the endless 'TJU Cheers' beside the track. These offered me strength and inspired me to run to the finish line. They are also my spiritual support in university life, making me a 'wind chaser' TJUer.”

Behind the competition, 400 volunteers from 76 majors of Tianjin University were active in all corners of the competition venue with full enthusiasm, making TJUers’ contribution. At 6:00 a.m., Tianjin University volunteers gathered and set off. Material distribution, finish timing, and distribution of items...... They "escorted" the smooth progress of the event in 15 positions.

Xu Jijun, a TJU volunteer at the Water Station, arrived at the finish line of the marathon at half past six in the morning and set up a row of drainage cups. His main task is to provide water service to the runners. He said: "I know that for the contestants, a simple cup of ginger soup and hot water is very important."

Wu Yuting, a TJU volunteer at the post of sprint in the finish line, witnessed the exciting moment when the athletes crossed the finish line. "Although our work is ordinary, each of us is dedicated to every little thing."

Yin Lihui, a TJU volunteer responsible for the distribution of items, including finishing bags, food, and towels to the contestants...... This novel and rewarding volunteering experience made her feel very meaningful. "I'm glad I was able to participate in the volunteer service of Tianjin Marathon. It was a rare experience."

Enthusiastic, professional and loving, they also made a wonderful run on the track of love and responsibility.

By Sun Xiaofang