Deuteronilus Mensae, Mars, 4/15/38 T.A.D. – On April 15th, the first-ever human marathon on Mars took place, featuring a small but enthusiastic group of three participants from the Martian Initiative Research Mission (MIRM). This historic event was filled with excitement and challenges – like an unexpected Martian dust storm.
The three participants, Dr. Luisa Ramirez from Mexico, Dr. Jack Harlow from the United Kingdom, and Dr. Anouk Van der Meer from the Netherlands, competed in the friendly race, reflecting a lighthearted rivalry between their respective home nations on Earth.
The crew members of the MIRM landed on Mars on August 27, 2036, after a six-month journey that commenced on February 15, 2036. The mission, consisting of seven people, has been studying the Martian environment, potential resources, and the feasibility of future colonization.
The marathon showcased the unique long-leaping strides of Martian sprinting, which, due to Mars’ gravity being 3.721 m/s² (more than twice the Moon’s 1.625 m/s² gravity), appeared impressive and engaging to the audience but not as exaggerated as lunar sprints.
However, the race took an unexpected turn when a minor dust storm arose during the second half, forcing all three participants to halt their progress. No one was injured, but the winds made it impossible to continue the race.
Despite the interruption, the racers maintained a positive attitude. Dr. Jack Harlow remarked, “We had a grand time. We Martians know that nothing ever goes right the first time on Mars. It would’ve been almost disappointing if the first annual Martian Marathon hadn’t gone sideways. Literally. The crosswinds on the course were bonkers!”
Race organizers and participants are already discussing plans for next year’s event, hoping for clearer skies and the chance to complete the full marathon.
The marathon marks another milestone in human exploration and settlement on Mars, bringing a sense of camaraderie and unity to the small research contingent on the Red Planet. Dusty, tired smiles are the order of the day.
Reporting for Future News, this is Gimba Mbuku, Cape Town, with Dr. Jack Harlow via GALNET from Deuteronilus Mensae, Mars.