Hong Kong trail runners attack ‘inconsistent, illogical, unfair restrictions’ on their sport in letter to health chief
- Several organisations have sent a letter to Dr Lo Chung-mau asking for him to explain why their sport is restricted
- Like many sports, trail races have had to operate with reduced numbers and what officials claim are ‘onerous’ testing procedures
The Trail Runners Association of Hong Kong has sent an open letter to health minister Dr Lo Chung-mau requesting an urgent meeting, asking why trail running continues to be subjected to what they see as stricter Covid-19 restrictions than other sporting events and activities.
“It is time for Hong Kong to allow trail racing to resume as normal without delay,” said the letter, which along with TRAHK was signed by 24 organisations including UTMB Asia Limited, Moontrekker Limited, XTE Race, Action Asia Events and The Gone Runners Running Club.
The Post has reached out to the health department for comment.
Most trail races in the city have recently been denied permits. Those that have been granted permits have been under 50 kilometres in distance, with very few participants allowed and restrictions on food.
They have also been confirmed close to the event dates, leaving organisers little time to prepare. Runners and volunteers required to undergo PCR or RAT tests that are often more expensive than the entry fee, the letter said. Races were banned for a while at night.
Under the subheading “inconsistent, illogical, unfair restrictions” the letter points to indoor venues such as cinemas, restaurants and clubs all reopening.