Chen Jin, from Chuangkou village in Hai'an, Nantong, finished his 81st marathon with a 20-kilogram iron vest on his back May 17.

He became interested in the sport 16 years ago, and in his latest event had to run around the village 21 times, which was equivalent in length to a full marathon. 

Over the past 16 years, Chen has participated in many marathons around the world. He ran his first load-bearing marathon in April 2015, and completed his 60th in Athens, Greece, the birthplace of the marathon, in November 2018.

Chen Jin (center), a villager in Hai'an, Nantong, joins a marathon race wearing a 20-kg iron vest on his back May 17. [Photo/ntfabu.com]

"It is my dream to finish 100 load-bearing marathon races before the 2022 Olympic Winter Games," Chen said.

His spirit has inspired many people. He served as a torch bearer at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, and has won several national and provincial honors.

Yu Hun, a local doctor, ran with Chen on May 17. It was her second marathon race. Last year, she took part in the Nantong International Marathon, a part of the 2019 China Forest Tour Festival, through being inspired by Chen. 

In addition, Chen also organized over 100 keen runners to compete in the international marathon together.