Investigation Launched Into Beijing Half Marathon After Chinese Long-Distance Runner Claims Victory

A controversy has arisen surrounding Chinese long-distance runner He Jie's victory in the Beijing Half Marathon, with organizers launching an investigation after three African competitors seemed to intentionally slow down to allow He to win. 

In a video circulating online, it can be seen that four athletes - Kenya's Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat, Ethiopia's Dejene Hailu Bikila, and He - were all nearing the finish line at the same time. The African runners then slowed down and signaled for He to overtake them and claim victory. 

According to VOA, the four athletes were running side by side just a few meters from the finish line, with He ultimately breaking the tape first. He, who holds the Chinese marathon record, completed the race in 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 44 seconds. The trio of African runners finished just one second behind him, clocking in at 1:03:45. 

He, aged 25, previously secured a gold medal in the marathon event at the 2023 Asian Games and is considered China's record holder in the sport.