In China, a shepherd has been hailed as a hero when it was revealed that he helped six injured runners during an ultramarathon in which 21 other participants perished.
On Tuesday, Zhu Keming was trending on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, three days after a 100km cross-country mountain race in the northwestern province of Gansu turned fatal due to freezing rain, strong winds, and hail.
In China, the disaster sparked fury and sadness, with questions swirling about why organizers allegedly ignored warnings about the impending harsh weather. Zhu was grazing his sheep about midday on Saturday when the wind picked up, rain fell, and temperatures plummeted, according to official media.
He sought shelter in a cave where he had kept clothes and food for eventualities, but while inside, he noticed one of the race’s 172 contestants and inquired as to what was wrong since he was standing motionless, obviously suffering from cramps.
Zhu led the guy back to the cave, where he massaged his icy hands and feet, set fire, and dried his garments. Four more distraught runners entered the cave and informed the shepherd that others were marooned outside, some unconscious. Zhu headed outdoors again, risking storms and frigid conditions to find a runner on the ground. He rushed him to safety and covered him in blankets, almost definitely saving his life.
The incident has refocused attention on China’s thriving marathon and running industries, with officials directing sporting contests to enhance safety. Five cross-country, marathon, or other running contests have been cancelled on short notice.
