On March 23, 2025, at 5 o'clock in the morning, Hengqin was still immersed in tranquility, on both sides of the street, the mist was shrouded, and the first rays of sunlight were slowly rising, and the sunlight was quietly sprinkled on the yellow bellflower trees on both sides of the street, adding a bit of mystery and expectation to the upcoming event. It was the first time in my life that I ran a half marathon, and I was both excited and nervous about the unknown course and challenges.

Stepping into the check-in area and singing the 'National Anthem of the People's Republic of China' with tens of thousands of enthusiastic runners, I felt unprecedented unity and strength at that moment. As the starting horn sounded and the crowd poured in, I followed everyone and started my first half marathon run of 21.0975 km. Starting from the Central Park of Hengqin Financial Island, thousands of pairs of running shoes run over the road, and the sound is like a smart beat, knocking on the beautiful Hengqin.

The first 6km was exciting, but as the race progressed and the temperature gradually rose, I struggled inside. Tired legs, swollen muscles, these negative emotions crept in and tried to slow me down...... Whenever I was about to relax, the images of every section of the track encouraged me, I saw a runner pushing a stroller, his face was full of happiness, and I also saw a young and beautiful girl holding a stand, running live broadcast, and the staff of the supply station, watching them busy filling supplies for the runners, and constantly shouting 'come on' and 'don't give up' with a smile and enthusiasm! This scene, the heart that made me want to stop again and again, burned its strength again.

When I reached the 15th kilometer, my legs became heavy and I had all kinds of thoughts in my mind to stop, when a voice came to my ear: 'Don't worry, safety first, take your time, come on', and when I looked sideways, an aunt stood on the side of the road and said very kindly. At this moment, warmth and strength were poured into my heart, and I responded, 'Thank you, Auntie'. At this moment, I told myself that this race is not about winning or losing with others, but about self-transcendence.

The last 3 kilometers became a tug-of-war between body and soul, and I struggled with my heart again and again, and I walked and ran...... Finally, at 02:42:15, I ran my first 21.0975 km half marathon. The moment I finished, I was my hero!

This Hengqin Marathon made me understand that the biggest enemy in life is often not others, but myself. At the same time, no matter where you are in the future or how difficult the road under your feet is, you must believe that there are always some people around you who bring you warmth and strength.

Thank you for the 2024 Hengqin Life Hengqin Marathon! Give me a warm journey to compete with myself!