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Watch: Runners v robots at China half marathon

Robots competed in a half marathon race in Beijing on Sunday, with the winning machine leaving its human rivals for dust.

Published April 19, 2026, 8:46 AM
Updated May 11, 2026, 1:46 PM3.4K
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Watch: Runners v robots at China half marathon

Robots competed in a half marathon race in Beijing on Sunday, with the winning machine leaving its human rivals for dust.

The winning robot, Lightning, was developed by Chinese smartphone maker Honor and finished the race in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, according to race organisers.

Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo holds the men's half marathon world record, which he set in March in Lisbon with a time of 57 minutes and 20 seconds.

Around 40% of the robots raced autonomously, while the others were remotely controlled.

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