On April 19, 2025, Beijing’s Yizhuang district witnessed a historic convergence of technology and athletics as 21 humanoid robots competed alongside over 12,000 human runners in the half marathon. This event marked the first time humanoid robots participated directly with humans in such a race, showcasing China’s advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence.

The standout performer among the robotic entrants was “Tiangong Ultra,” developed by the Beijing Innovation Center of Human Robotics. This 1.8-meter-tall robot completed the 21-kilometer course in 2 hours, 40 minutes, and 42 seconds, demonstrating remarkable endurance and stability. Tiangong Ultra’s success is attributed to its advanced running algorithm and robust design.​

While Tiangong Ultra impressed spectators, not all robots fared as well. Some stumbled early in the race, with one robot falling at the starting line and taking several minutes to recover. Despite these challenges, the event highlighted the rapid progress in humanoid robotics and their potential applications beyond industrial settings.

Organizers likened the event to a motorsport race, emphasizing the technical support and engineering prowess required to prepare the robots for such a demanding task. ​