Chinese humanoid robots race alongside humans in half-marathon in Beijing

Some robots completed the race while others struggled from the beginning.

Twenty-One Humanoid Robots Join Runners at Beijing Half-Marathon. In a groundbreaking event, 21 humanoid robots participated alongside thousands of human runners in the Yizhuang Half-Marathon in Beijing on Saturday. It marked the first time robots have competed in a 21-kilometer race with humans.

The robots, developed by Chinese companies such as DroidUP and Noetix Robotics, came in various shapes and sizes—some standing under 120 cm (3.9 feet), while others reached up to 1.8 meters (5.9 feet). One manufacturer even highlighted its robot's human-like appearance, featuring feminine characteristics, the ability to smile, and even wink.

Several companies conducted weeks of testing to prepare their robots for the event. Beijing officials likened the marathon more to a motorsport competition, due to the heavy involvement of engineering and navigation teams.

“The robots are performing impressively and appear very stable. I feel like I’m witnessing the next step in the evolution of robots and AI,” said He Sishu, an AI professional and race spectator. Each robot was accompanied by a human trainer, some of whom had to provide physical support during the run.

Adding a touch of character to the race, some robots wore running shoes. One sported boxing gloves, while another wore a red headband emblazoned with the phrase “Bound to Win” in Chinese.

The winning robot, Tiangong Ultra, completed the race in 2 hours and 40 minutes. In comparison, the human male winner finished in just 1 hour and 2 minutes.

Tiangong Ultra was developed by the Beijing Innovation Center of Human Robotics, which is 43% owned by two state-owned enterprises. The remaining shares are split equally between tech giant Xiaomi’s robotics division and leading humanoid robot firm UBTech.

Tech Behind the Win

Tang Jian, Chief Technology Officer at the Beijing Innovation Center of Human Robotics, credited Tiangong Ultra’s success to its long legs and a specialized algorithm that mimics human marathon running.
“I don’t want to brag, but I believe no Western robotics firm has matched Tiangong’s athletic accomplishments,” Tang stated. He also noted that the robot only required three battery changes throughout the entire race.

Not All Smooth Running

While Tiangong Ultra managed to complete the race, many other robots faced significant challenges. One robot fell at the starting line and lay flat for several minutes before managing to get up and continue. Another crashed into a barrier just a few meters in, causing its human operator to stumble and fall as well.

Although humanoid robots have previously appeared at marathon events in China, this marks the first time they’ve raced directly alongside human participants.

China views robotics as a key frontier industry, with hopes that investment in such advanced technologies will spur future economic growth. However, not everyone is convinced that robotic marathon participation is a strong indicator of industrial value.

Skepticism from Experts

Alan Fern, a professor of computer science and robotics at Oregon State University, questioned the broader implications of the race.
“Despite claims from Beijing officials that this event represents an AI breakthrough, the technology allowing humanoid robots to run was developed and demonstrated over five years ago,” Fern said.
“Chinese companies have focused heavily on showcasing robots that can walk, run, and dance. While these are visually impressive, they don’t necessarily reflect useful functionality or real intelligence.”