66 year old retired veteran determined to run 100 marathons

A few days ago, a 61-year-old muscular grandpa went viral on the internet. His V-line abs and eight-pack were absolutely stunning! Today, I'm introducing another grandpa who is just as impressive!

At last year's Nanning International Half Marathon, he, with his gray hair and beard, was covered in labels and flags like 'China Veterans Marathon Club,' 'Chinese Veterans Salute the People of Nanning,' and '100 Marathons.' He instantly became the focus of many media outlets.

His name is Geng Xiaozhong, from Heilongjiang. 'By the age of 69, I want to complete 100 marathons, 200 by 74, and 300 by 80...'This is the goal he set for himself. Currently, at 66 years old, he has completed 30 marathons and plans to finish 50 by the end of this year.

He joined the Chinese People's Liberation Army in 1968, transferred to Liaohe Oilfield in 1987, moved to Beijing for work in 2003, and officially retired in 2005. After retirement, he wasn't content with a leisurely life of playing chess and bird-watching. He felt his life could still shine. In his youth, he had won several awards in sports meets at his commune and workplace. When he transferred to a local unit, he finished a 5000-meter run in 20 minutes, securing second place. In retirement, he decided to pick up this hobby for his health. So, at 60, he started long-distance running and has been at it for seven years. His goal is to 'run out of Asia and into the world.'

Geng Xiaozhong is not a professional marathon runner and has never received any professional training. He runs purely out of passion, maintaining a weekly mileage of 70 kilometers. A half marathon is no longer a challenge for him.

The person he is most grateful to is his current marathon sponsor, Zhou Huizhong, a young man doing clothing business in Xinjiang. After reading about Geng Xiaozhong's running story online, Zhou specifically went to Beijing to meet him and offered to cover all his marathon expenses. 'You're 60 and still dare to run marathons! Alright, if you want to run, I'll sponsor you!'The first time Zhou Huizhong metGeng Xiaozhong, he said, and from then on,Zhou Huizhong has been sponsoring him to participate in marathon events in various cities.'Without him, I'd still be wandering in place. I am grateful for his unconditional help,' Geng Xiaozhong said.

Because of Zhou Huizhong's sponsorship, Geng Xiaozhong's marathon plans have become even more resolute. He signs up for almost every marathon event held in different cities, and you can always spot him there. So, next time you see him at a marathon, don't hesitate to give him a thumbs up!

(This article is originally created by Codoon. For reprints, please contact the Codoon editor.)