Chen Guanming, a farmer from Jiangsu province in eastern China, traveled by rickshaw for 2 years covering over 25,000 miles through 16 countries, surviving floods, war zones, and extreme temperatures, to arrive at the London 2012 Olympics.
Chinese Farmer Rickshawed 25,000 Miles to the Olympics
When most people buy Olympic tickets, they book a flight or train. Chen Guanming pulled a rickshaw for two years across three continents.
The Chinese farmer from Jiangsu province left home in 2010 with a simple goal: reach London for the 2012 Summer Olympics. His vehicle of choice? A metal rickshaw he pulled himself, loaded with supplies, Olympic flags, and an unwavering dream.
The Journey Nobody Expected
Chen's route took him through 16 countries spanning Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. He crossed deserts where temperatures soared past 100°F and trudged through regions where monsoon rains turned roads to rivers. War zones in Afghanistan and Pakistan didn't stop him—he navigated checkpoints and danger zones with the same determination he showed on safer roads.
The rickshaw itself became a rolling billboard for the Olympics, decorated with banners and flags. Locals would stop to photograph this unusual traveler, many assuming it was a publicity stunt. It wasn't. Chen funded the journey himself, sleeping in his rickshaw or relying on the kindness of strangers who offered shelter.
Not His First Rodeo
This wasn't Chen's introduction to Olympic rickshaw pilgrimages. He'd previously pulled his rickshaw to Beijing for the 2008 Summer Olympics, covering thousands of miles across China. That journey convinced him he could go further—much further.
After London, he didn't stop. Chen went on to pull his rickshaw to Brazil for the 2016 Rio Olympics, completing a third intercontinental journey that cemented his status as perhaps the world's most dedicated Olympic fan.
Why Do It?
Chen's motivation was refreshingly simple: to promote the Olympic spirit and showcase Chinese culture. He saw his journey as a personal contribution to international friendship and understanding. No sponsors, no film crew, just one man and his rickshaw.
- Total distance: Over 25,000 miles
- Duration: 2 years (2010-2012)
- Countries crossed: 16
- Cost: Self-funded from farming income
When Chen finally arrived at the London Olympics in 2012, he was exhausted, sunburned, and triumphant. The Olympic organizers, impressed by his dedication, reportedly gave him tickets to attend events. He'd earned them more than most.