You can eat bananas again at Hong Kong trail races – ‘but don’t get caught talking while eating’

Government’s change to rules is ‘ridiculous’ but still a ‘positive step forward’ for Hong Kong trail running community, says Action Asia chief

Runners are not allowed to consume the bananas at checkpoints, and staff members must remind them to observe the rules

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The Hysan Hike & Run takes place on Hong Kong Island, on November 13. Photo: Action Asia Events/William Leung

Published: 3:30pm, 9 Nov 2022Updated: 7:00pm, 9 Nov 2022

Trail races will serve bananas for the first time in three years but runners will still have to eat them on their own outside checkpoints.

The move has been labelled “ridiculous” by race organisers Action Asia Events, but a “positive step forward” nonetheless as they prepare to host the Hysan Island Hike & Run on November 13.

Amid stringent Covid-19 restrictions, the trail running community has lobbied the government to allow their sport to return to normal, pointing out it is a very low risk sporting activity – particularly compared to the likes of the Hong Kong Sevens.

However a new paragraph was included among the usual list of rules given to Action Asia for this weekend’s 5km and 14km races, which start near the junction at Tai Hang Rd and Wang Nai Chung Gap Road.

“Runners, if needed, are allowed to bring along their own food for eating during the race. The organiser will also provide bananas at the checkpoints for self-collection by runners,” the government statement said.

Bananas will be served at checkpoints. Photo: Handout

However, it added runners are “not allowed to consume the food within the checkpoint areas”.