Ji Jinbiao, vice-secretary of the CPC Beijing International Studies University and president of the university, attended a long-distance running event alongside  more than 1,000 teachers and students on October 2, in celebration of the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

With the theme "Special Wishes to the Motherland from the 10.1-kilometer Long-Distance Running Event," the activity drew the attendance of 1,074 teachers and students from 51 majors and 14 departments and schools of BISU.

Standing at the starting point, all participants sang the My Motherland and Me in chorus.

Ji finished the course in 51 minutes and 28 seconds, 21 seconds faster than his previous record. He called on students to study hard, do more physical exercise, and march forward with a fighting spirit in the building of a modern socialist country in all respects.

"It is of great significance for college students to convey their affection for the country in the long-distance run," said a student surnamed Li. He added that participation in the event aimed at maintaining strong enthusiasm for sports and further enhancing a personal sense of belonging and mission.

During the race, two students from the School of European Studies and the School of English Language, Literature and Culture claimed first place in the men's and women's groups respectively. All attendees received a commemorative certificate.

On the sidelines of the long-distance run, there was a special venue reserved for participants to write down their best wishes to the country on its 73rd birthday.

In addition, nearly 400 BISU students in other cities took part in the run via video link.

Wang Yulin, one of six participants in the BISU's Seven-Year Comprehensive Training Program in Hungary, said that participation in the run would help people become relaxed and strong, adding that it was of great importance for her to celebrate the 73rd birthday of the country together with Ji, teachers and classmates at home.

It was the fourth consecutive year that Ji attended the run with teachers and students at BISU. The race was held in the Olympic Forest Park, online and along the riverside of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal in 2019, 2020 and 2021 respectively.

A photo taken on October 2 shows participants in the run at Beijing International Studies University. [Photo provided by bisu.edu.cn]

Ji Jinbiao (C), vice-secretary of the CPC Beijing International Studies University committee and president of the university, poses for a group photo with several students during the run on October 2. [Photo provided by bisu.edu.cn]

A photo taken on October 2 shows participants at Beijing International Studies University. [Photo provided by bisu.edu.cn]

Several students wave national flags at Beijing International Studies University on October 2. [Photo provided by bisu.edu.cn]

Two students pose for a photo on at Beijing International Studies University on October 2. [Photo provided by bisu.edu.cn]