Chinese Marathon Runner Gets Periods While Running But Finishes Race
Chinese marathon runner Li Meizhen won hearts worldwide after finishing the 2024 Hengshui Lake Marathon despite getting her period mid-race.
Chinese marathon runner Li Meizhen has captured global attention after her inspiring story from the 2024 Hengshui Lake Marathon resurfaced online.
During the race, Li unexpectedly got her period with around 8 kilometers left to run. Despite severe cramps and visible blood on her running shorts and legs, she refused to stop. She completed the marathon in 2 hours, 35 minutes, and 7 seconds, earning widespread admiration for her determination.
Born on 3rd January 1999 in Hetian Town, Fujian Province, Li came from a family with no sporting background. Her parents ran a restaurant and guesthouse, and her journey into athletics began only after she joined her school's sports club in the fifth grade. A race victory caught the attention of coaches from Longyan City Junior Sports School, who recognized her talent.
Li later graduated from Shanghai University of Sport and also competed as a professional athlete for China's People's Liberation Army. She has since built a successful career as a long-distance runner.
As images from the marathon spread across social media, thousands praised her resilience. Many pointed out that menstruation is a natural part of life and should never be a source of shame.
Explaining why she didn't stop, Li simply said, "If I quit, I would have to run another marathon." She added, "It doesn't matter if my result wasn't good. I just needed to finish it."
