In an extraordinary feat of endurance and dedication, 74-year-old Michael Cheng Chun-yim from Hong Kong has completed a year-long journey retracing the historic Long March of the Red Army. Starting from Yudu county in Jiangxi province on October 17, 2024, Cheng walked approximately 5,000 kilometers across eight provinces, culminating in Wuqi township, Shaanxi province, on October 19, 2025. This journey was not just a physical challenge but a profound pilgrimage to connect with the spirit of perseverance and unity that defined the Red Army’s legendary trek from 1934 to 1936. Cheng’s inspiration stemmed from Edgar Snow’s ‘Red Star Over China,’ a book he read as a university student in 1972, which ignited his lifelong fascination with the Long March. Despite the grueling conditions—scorching heat, freezing winds, and rugged terrains—Cheng remained steadfast, driven by the belief that if the Red Army could endure hunger and gunfire, he could overcome his own challenges. Along the way, he encountered the warmth and kindness of local people, who offered food, shelter, and encouragement, reinforcing his belief in the enduring spirit of unity. Cheng documented his journey in a diary, reflecting on the transformation of the landscapes and the lessons of the Long March. His story, now being considered for publication, aims to inspire younger generations, particularly in Hong Kong, to understand and embrace the values of faith, perseverance, and unity. For Cheng, the Long March is not just a historical event but a metaphor for life’s challenges, offering timeless guidance in navigating modern complexities.
