Over 3,000 students from Guyuan City in northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region embarked on a 54-kilometer journey this week, retracing history to honor fallen heroes ahead of Tomb Sweeping Day. The annual tradition, now in its 31st year, saw teens set off at dawn on April 3, trekking to Renshanhe Martyrs Cemetery—a powerful tribute blending physical endurance with cultural remembrance.
🗓️ This year’s walk holds special significance as China commemorates the 90th anniversary of the Long March, the legendary 1934-1936 military retreat that shaped modern Chinese history. 'Every step reminds us of the sacrifices made for our nation,' said one participant, echoing the event’s motto: 'Turn memory into action.'
👣 The marathon walk—equivalent to 1.3 marathons!—symbolizes youth carrying forward the perseverance and unity central to Long March values. Organizers note that since 1995, over 60,000 students have completed the pilgrimage, creating living bridges between generations.
