Runners v robots at China half marathon

Robots competed in a half-marathon race in Beijing on Sunday, and the winning machine outpaced its human rivals.

The winning robot, Lightning, was developed by Chinese smartphone maker Honor and completed the race in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, according to race organisers.

Ugandan Jacob Kiplimo holds the men’s half marathon world record, which he broke in Lisbon in March with a time of 57 minutes and 20 seconds.

About 40% of the robots raced autonomously, while others were remotely controlled.