Bank staff take the Dragon’s Back test in their stride
Families and friends in high spirits on a glorious hike that raises money for a worthy cause
Over 200 corporate volunteers took on the Dragon’s Back on a windswept Saturday morning to raise funds for Operation Santa Claus, the annual charity drive jointly held by the South China Morning Post and RTHK.
Inviting friends and family to a day of hiking along the popular scenic trail between Wan Cham Shan and Shek O Peak, staff at Bank of America Merrill Lynch spent the morning in fresh air and high spirits.
“One of the best things about Hong Kong are all the hiking trails here, and hiking is great because it’s something you can do with anyone,” said Richard Yacenda, COO of the bank, who came up with the idea of the hike to bring together colleagues in the name of charity.
Yacenda said the nature of the charity event was quite unique, by virtue of it being an outdoor activity, giving colleagues a chance to get time away from the office.
“Dragon’s Back is one of the most beautiful hikes in Hong Kong,” he said. “The vistas going up are stunning and some of the peaks are 600 metres high, which is a bit intimidating.”
Two employees dressed up as Santa Claus along the checkpoints, offering brownies and trail mix. It ended with a festive lunch.