Finish line ahead
more challenging. It was getting dark when we arrived and Lee, who had knee problems from the start of the event, needed medical attention. The cold, fatigue, sleep deprivation, hunger and Lee’s painful knee all made it more difficult for us to achieve our target time of 12 hours.
However, we were determined to complete the trail together in line with this year’s event slogan: “Press On Through Life’s Peaks And Valleys”. No matter what challenges we faced, we felt we could overcome them with stamina, determination and team spirit.
Finally, we arrived at the finish line at Po Leung Kuk Jockey Club at almost midnight. We had walked for 33 hours, climbed countless steep paths, negotiated challenging terrain and we made it as a team.
We crossed the finish line holding our hands together as a big group of waiting supporters cheered us on. The atmosphere at that moment was fantastic. It was almost midnight and suddenly I discovered that I was wide awake!
Despite not achieving our target time of 30 hours, I was happy that the team had displayed excellent team spirit, determination and commitment in over- coming all the obstacles and difficulties along the trail. We were also truly impressed with the well-organised event and happy to support Oxfam’s causes. In fact, for next year’s event, we are looking to sponsor an all-female team. Our current male team will then be the supporting team for the ladies, helping them to carry stuff, running alongside and encouraging them along the trail.
After experiencing the rough terrain, scorching days, chilly nights and sleepiness, we will be more prepared next year. The event was not about coming in first or last, it was about determination and commitment in overcoming all obstacles and difficulties along the trail while helping to raise funds and eliminate poverty.
I sincerely hope many Malaysian runners will support this event in the future.
For more info, visit http:// www.oxfamtrailwalker.org.hk