A legend has been reawakened in time. Recently, Hal Finney's widow, Fran, posted on social media to commemorate this early Bitcoin pioneer at a crucial moment 17 years ago—when Hal publicly announced "Running bitcoin," becoming the first to publicly run a Bitcoin client in history.

This is not only a memorial; Fran also officially launched the fifth "Running Bitcoin Challenge" charity event. Started in 2021, the event is centered around the half marathon distance (21.1 kilometers), which Hal loved in his lifetime. Participants worldwide are invited to join by running or walking, with funds raised going toward ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) research.

How important was Hal's role? He was the recipient of Satoshi Nakamoto's first 10 BTC transfer—this transaction is clearly recorded in block 170 from 2009. As early as 2004, he proposed the Reusable Proof of Work (RPOW) system, which directly influenced Bitcoin's architecture. During Bitcoin's early development, he was deeply involved through test networks, feedback on vulnerabilities, and more, truly laying the foundation of the ecosystem.

Fate was not kind to him. In 2009, he was diagnosed with ALS, and his condition gradually worsened, eventually leading to paralysis. Yet, he never gave up coding. He passed away in 2014 due to complications from the disease, ending a life full of determination.

Hal's story reminds us that behind every great technological advancement, there are those willing to sacrifice everything. Through activities like the Running Bitcoin Challenge, the community continues to pay tribute to this spirit, while also uniting efforts to conquer ALS, a neurodegenerative disease.