A march of faith: 74-year-old Hong Kong man retraces the Long March on foot

In a remarkable tribute to history and resilience, 74-year-old Hong Kong resident Michael Cheng Chun-Yim recently completed a year-long journey retracing the Red Army’s legendary Long March. On October 19, Cheng arrived in Wuqi township, Shaanxi province, marking the exact 90th anniversary of the Red Army’s arrival at the same location. His journey began in Yudu county, Jiangxi province, and spanned over 300 days, covering approximately 5,000 kilometers across eight provincial-level regions. Cheng traversed mountains, grasslands, and endured extreme weather conditions, embodying the spirit of perseverance and unity that defined the Long March. For Cheng, this was not merely a physical challenge but a profound exploration of China’s rapid development and historical legacy. ‘I wanted to understand my country not from books, but with my own feet,’ he remarked. Cheng views the Long March as a metaphor for life, emphasizing the enduring relevance of faith and determination in today’s prosperous era. His journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the sacrifices made by the Red Army and the timeless lessons of their struggle.