Before the race, Becker paid a visit to a memorial hall for the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression in Tengchong to reflect on the alliance of Chinese and US forces during World War II.

"The presentation of Americans and Chinese fighting side-by-side was very impressive and emotional," Becker said.

"I felt a personal connection because my father and my uncle both fought here in this theater during the war."

Becker said he was deeply touched by the spirit of selflessness and moral clarity, and said he hoped that more US citizens could come and see such stories firsthand, and understand the historic bond between the peoples of China and the US.

"Maybe it would help make the world a more peaceful place," he said.