Scott No: -
Serial number: 2019-5
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: March 31st, 2019
Denomination: 240 fen
Designer: Zhang Qiang
Size of stamps: 30 * 40 mm
Perforation: 13.5
Sheet composition: 16
Sheet Size: 146 * 200 mm
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

China Post was scheduled to issue a set of 2 special stamps themed "Marathon" on March 31, 2019. The two stamp designs are respectively titled "Surpassing Oneself" and "Running Towards Health", with the total face value of the complete set being 2.40 yuan.

The marathon is a long - distance track event held on roads, covering a full distance of 42.195 kilometers. With a long history, it originated in ancient Greece and was included as an event in the first modern Olympic Games. In addition to being a competition item at the Olympic Games and other major track and field events, World Athletics has also approved cities in several countries to host high - level marathon standalone events that combine professionalism with mass participation. In recent years, the marathon sport in China has been developing vigorously. The number of events has increased rapidly and public participation has been on the rise, making it an important platform for promoting nationwide fitness, carrying forward sports culture and building a Healthy China.

The first stamp depicts the dynamic moment when a marathon runner crosses the finish line, along with the cheering audience in the background. Together with the full marathon distance marked on it, it highlights the marathon spirit of "challenging oneself, exceeding limits, perseverance and never giving up". The second stamp shows a group of athletes in their vigorous competitive postures, paired with the scene of volunteers handing out water to them. It embodies the unique charm of the marathon sport featuring "full public participation and mutual assistance", and also conveys the healthy lifestyle concept of "running towards health".

This set of stamps was designed by Zhang Qiang and printed by Beijing Stamp Factory using the photogravure process.