25.02.2011, 11:42 6785

First robot marathon kicks off in Osaka

First robot marathon began on Thursday in Osaka, Japan, Kazakhstan Today reports.

Almaty. February 25. Kazakhstan Today - First robot marathon began on Thursday in Osaka, Japan, Kazakhstan Today reports.

Five knee-high androids have crossed the starting line in the world's first marathon for two-legged robots, BBC News reported.

The contestants are expected to take four days to complete the course, which involves 423 laps of an indoor track.

Operators are allowed to change the robots' batteries and motors but if the machines fall over they must get up by themselves.

The race is being organised by local authorities and a local robotics firm, which hopes the marathon will become an international event in the future.

Spectators turned out on Thursday to watch the start of the robots' 26-mile (42km) journey.

The toy-sized contestants waved and limbered up before the race got under way.

Organisers say they expect the race to be won not by the fastest robot but by the one that can withstand the most wear and tear.

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