On December 6th, 12·9 Campus Marathon was held in University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) at west campus. A total of 3,000 students and teachers participated in this grand event. Deputy party secretary of the university committee JIANG Yi, dean of Academic Affairs ZENG Changgan, secretary of the Youth League Committee YANG Xiaoguo and other heads of relevant departments attended the opening ceremony.

On the ceremony, JIANG Yi warmly welcomed all participants of this marathon and expressed sincere thanks to laborious work made by staff members. He expected all teachers and students to take on the responsibility of repaying the country through science and technology and staying true to our original aspiration of pursuing excellence. Students were also encouraged to improve cultural knowledge and self-cultivation, and meanwhile develop good exercise habits, enhance athletic skills and foster sound personalities. The referee of the marathon CHAI Song introduced rules of this marathon, the arrangement of volunteers, and instructed how to use chips and number cards.

During the opening ceremony, dragon dance, street dance, chorus and other diversified shows were organized in order to inspire spirit of all participant .

At the sound of starting pistol, all the participants were off the mark with tremendous enthusiasm. They ran down Huanyu Road to the front of library and to West Activity Square and still continued their way forward. Along the road, publicity and supply points were set up to cheer marathon runners.

The marathon was divided into three levels based on different length of running distance, including the length of 2.1kilometers, 6.3 kilometers and the longest 12.9 kilometers. Participants can get certificates at the destination, and medals would be awarded to those who have completed the full length.

Campus Marathon in commemorate of 12·9 Movement has been held since 2014. As all teachers and students respond actively, the campaign has become the largest-size sports event across USTC. There were 2006 participants completed the full distance and earned medals. The 12·9 Marathons inspired teachers and students to positively join physical exercise and foster education on patriotism and love of school.

(Written by TU Bingxin, edited by LU Hongyu, USTC News Center)