Countdown to the race! Humanoid robot dons size 29 shoes for marathon prep

The 2025 Beijing Yizhuang Half Marathon and the world's first humanoid robot half marathon will kick off at 7:30 a.m. on April 19, marking the world's first event where humans and humanoid robots race side by side over a 21.0975-kilometer course.

As the competition nears, N2, a humanoid robot developed by NOETIX Robotics, has entered its final training phase. The robot is currently running laps within the company's compound for last-minute on-site tests. To optimize performance, engineers equipped N2 with size 29 children's shoes (equivalent to EU 18.5/US 11.5 youth) for enhanced shock absorption. This modification not only reduces noise during strides but also improves running efficiency and speed.