In an inspiring display of endurance and solidarity, over 3,400 individuals participated in the annual Oxfam Trailwalker event, a significant hiking fundraiser held in Hong Kong. The event, which marks its 39th edition, brought together approximately 850 teams to traverse a demanding 100km route along the renowned MacLehose Trail. Spanning from Pak Tam Chung in Sai Kung to the Crossroads Foundation in Tuen Mun, the trail encompasses 20 of the city’s towering peaks, presenting a formidable challenge to all participants.
This year’s event, the second of its kind in 2023 but the first to proceed without Covid-related restrictions, saw a diverse mix of participants. Among them were a dedicated teacher from Hong Chi Lions Morninghill School and three 18-year-old students with mild mental retardation or autism spectrum disorder. In a similar spirit of inclusion and determination, four medical students from the Chinese University formed a team to tackle the trail.
The event also attracted international attention, with participants from overseas and mainland China joining the cause. Notably, two hearing-impaired individuals from Beijing’s Best Social Work Institute, an organization supporting disabled women in China, were among the international contingent.
The Oxfam Trailwalker is more than just a physical challenge; it is a powerful platform for raising awareness and funds for critical global issues. This year’s focus on combating climate change highlights the event’s commitment to fostering environmental stewardship and supporting those affected by extreme weather events. The funds raised are earmarked for a variety of poverty alleviation, emergency relief, and advocacy projects, both in Hong Kong and worldwide.
The event has evolved significantly since its inception in 1981 as a military training exercise for the elite Queen’s Gurkha Signals Regiment. In 1986, it was opened to the public, and Oxfam Hong Kong took the helm, transforming the Trailwalker into a beacon of hope and change.
As participants embarked on their 48-hour journey, the spirit of community and purpose was palpable. The Oxfam Trailwalker continues to be a testament to human resilience, the power of collective effort, and the unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
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