Marathon Runner Disqualified for Chain-Smoking During Race

Despite the ban, 'Uncle Chen' completed the marathon in three hours and 33 minutes, sparking debate over the regulation.

52-year-old marathon runner known as 'Uncle Chen' was disqualified from the Xiamen marathon in China for chain-smoking cigarettes throughout the race.
Despite smoking, Uncle Chen finished the marathon in three hours and 33 minutes, placing 574th out of more than 1,500 runners.
The Chinese Athletics Association implemented a ban on smoking during marathons last year.
Uncle Chen has previously run other marathons while smoking, claiming that cigarettes help him with fatigue.
Uncle Chen's disqualification has sparked debate about the regulation and its impact on individual freedom and athletic performance.