~ Run for Nature • Every Step Counts ~
Alright folks, gather ‘round because we’re heading straight into the heart of the action—Hong Kong’s exhilarating Barclays MoonTrekker event. Now, if you think ‘treading lightly’ means tiptoeing around your flatmate’s laundry, you’ve got another thing coming! On October 18-19, 2024, trail runners will be leaving their comfort zones and forging through the stunning landscapes of Hong Kong, all in the name of conservation. It’s the ninth year, and this time there’s a twist—the legendary adventurer Mario Rigby is here to run for nature. And let’s be honest, if anyone can outrun a sandwich in the fridge, it’s Mario!
Now, if you haven’t heard of Mario Rigby, let me introduce you. This guy’s not just your average weekend warrior; he completed a mind-boggling 12,000km trek known as ‘Crossing Africa’. I mean, when I order a long-distance takeaway, I start getting anxious if it’s longer than 30 minutes. But Mario? He’s out there sprinting across continents while I struggle to sprint from my bed to the kitchen. And he’s got a knack for shining a light on conservation, too—so while we stuff our faces, he’s out there advocating for the planet.
Mario himself said he sees the MoonTrekker as “a fantastic opportunity” to support The Nature Conservancy (TNC). You thought your last outing was life-changing? Try connecting with Hong Kong’s biodiversity while running across trails. Imagine, amidst the sweat and heavy breathing, you could be spotting all kinds of wildlife, all while contemplating if that gel you just consumed is helping or hurting. But hey, every small act counts, right? Who knew saving the earth could double as a fitness regime!
Now, let’s talk about William Sargent, the founder and event organizer. He’s practically bubbling with excitement over Mario’s participation, and rightly so. “His dedication to environmental conservation aligns perfectly with the mission of MoonTrekker and TNC,” he states. I mean, nothing screams ‘let’s save the planet’ like sweaty bodies racing towards the sunrise. It’s like a group therapy session with less talking and more gasping for air. And with Barclays’ backing, they’re hoping to reach even greater heights—literally, as participants aim to summit Lantau Peak before the big ball of fire does!
Speaking of a challenge, this event is not just for seasoned athletes. The MoonTrekker offers options ranging from a 20km stroll—ideal for someone who’s more interested in snapping photos of landscapes than actually running—to the intense 40km for those who thought ‘easy’ meant barely breaking a sweat. Finally, something that encourages everyone from *“I only run if chased”* to *“I run marathons for fun.”* And with the event celebrating its 15th anniversary, they’re not just running for glory here; they’re also running to raise a whopping amount for conservation efforts!
The funds raised will support TNC’s initiatives across the Asia Pacific, tackling the big, nasty issues like climate change, water conservation, and wildlife rescue. Take, for instance, TNC’s oyster reef restoration project in Hong Kong—talk about a shellfish effort to clean up our waters! It’s symbolic, really; you never know how quickly a small effort can spiral into something bigger, much like your last family gathering after one too many cakes.
And let’s not forget—it’s not just about the glory of finishing. Participants are contributing to a sustainable future. Just think about it: you could run 40km while supporting nature. Because who doesn’t want to feel like a sweaty savior of the planet, right?
So, mark your calendars, lace those running shoes, and let’s make every step count. After all, in the wise words of Mario, “Together, we can make a difference.” And in my words: if you think you can’t run, just remember, the only thing worse than running a trail is not giving it a shot at all. Now let’s get ready for some trailblazing adventure on the wild side!
About Barclays MoonTrekker
It’s not just a run; it’s an experience. Combining overnight hiking with environmental consciousness, MoonTrekker dares adventurers to summit Lantau Peak before dawn. Out of breath yet? Donations made here have reached over $2.2 million since 2009—yep, that’s a lot of dough for a lot of good. Next stop? Join the fun or support from the sidelines, but whatever you do, don’t miss out on this unique Hong Kong experience!
About The Nature Conservancy
A global conservation powerhouse, TNC is on a mission to tread lightly on our Earth—sometimes literally! By collaborating across the globe, they’re addressing climate change, protecting wildlife, and encouraging sustainable practices. Who wouldn’t want to join a cause that truly matters? Check them out and witness how nature and people can engage in a meaningful dance together!
So, ready to join Mario on a wilder-than-your-average-sprint adventure? Get those feet moving and let’s run for nature!
