John Stephen Akhwari takes photo with Chinese students.
(BEIJING, Jan. 3) -- As a part of Heart-to-Heart Partnership program, John Stephen Akhwari, hero of the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, and Helen L. Brahim, minister plenipotentiary from the Tanzanian Embassy, visited Beijing Guanyuan Primary School in Tongzhou District on Wednesday morning.
Forty years ago, Akhwari represented Tanzania in the marathon of the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games. Although he injured his leg, he persisted till the last moment of the marathon, and this act won him the respect of the world. At that event, he said that he was 7,000 miles from his country. He came here, not just to listen to the sound of the starting gun, but to finish the race. His words inspired countless people.
During the activity, students watched the documentary of Akhwari in the marathon of the 1968 Mexico City Olympics and were deeply moved by his perseverance. Akhwari encouraged the students to be strong-minded, just like him. With this Tanzanian guest, student also learned about marathon skills. As a father of eight children, Akhwari was very happy with the Chinese students.
During the activity, Akhwari said that he enjoyed his visit at Beijing Guanyuan Primary School and wished to tell his family and friends in Tanzania about his experience in Beijing.
John Stephen Akhwari wears red scarf.
John Stephen Akhwari teaches marathon.
Portraits of John Stephen Akhwari are given by Chinese students.
John Stephen Akhwari gives performance.
