Fujian-based programmer achieves historic victory in Paris 2024 Mass Participation Marathon

Huang Xuemei arrives at Paris. [Photo/WeChat account of Fujian Media Group]

At 3 am Beijing time on Aug 11, the Paris 2024 Mass Participation Marathon began, setting the stage for a remarkable personal triumph. 

Huang Xuemei, a programmer from the Xiamen International Bank located in Xiamen city in East China' s Fujian province, emerged victorious in the women's category.

Mirroring the route of the Olympic marathon, this was the first time in the  modern history of the games that running events were opened up to the public. 

A select group of 40,048 lucky amateur athletes from around the world, including more than 120 Chinese runners, seized the opportunity to partake in the historic race.

Huang finished the race in an impressive 2 hr 41 min 3 sec. She showcased remarkable consistency by achieving the first half in 1:19:38 and the second half in 1:21:25, making her the first female runner to cross the finish line. Her previous personal best was 2:32:16.