More than 3,600 hikers from all over the world are expected to take part in Hong Kongˇ¦s annual fundraising Trailwalker event, organised by Oxfam Hong Kong ˇV part of the UK-founded Oxfam International Development and Relief Agency ˇV from November 9 ˇV 11.
Since its inception in 1981, the walkathon has raised over HK$120 million (US$15.4 million) to help disadvantaged people in Hong Kong and other parts of Asia and Africa. Last year HK$14 million (US$1.8 million) was raised.
Trailwalker is supported by major sponsor State Street Corporation and an array of companies and community organisations. Money raised this year will support Oxfam Hong Kongˇ¦s long-term development and humanitarian relief programs.
The route covers the 100 km (62 miles) MacLehose Trail through eight green country parks and 20 hills in the New Territories.
The MacLehose Trail begins in Pak Tam Chung near Sai Kung and extends all the way to Tuen Mun, New Territories. There are 10 stages of varying degrees of difficulty marked by luxuriant woodlands, rugged mountain peaks and a diverse array of flora and fauna interspersed with streams, plateaux and greenery.
The fastest record for Trailwalker is currently 13 hours 18 minutes, held by the ex-Gurkha Regiment of Hong Kong. The maximum time limit is 48 hours.
Tourism Board public relations manager Donna Mongan said few major cities in the world had such wilderness and wildlife right on the doorstep. ˇ§Green tourism in Hong Kong is of interest to many markets now as more information on tours and events such as the Trailwalker showcasing these lesser-known attractions is appearing in the media.ˇ¨
