Vibram HK100 2014

The fourth edition, and my third HK100 attempt, was held on18 - 19 Jan 2014. Vibram is always an enjoyable race, cruising through the scenic Sai Kung region of HK. (Post-race, I chanced upon a webpage describing the tourist sites in Sai Kung and realised that we had run through almost all of them! What a great way to tour an otherwise unknown area.)

This year, I came without the benefit of any Namaste-enriched lungs but from a failed HK-TNF attempt in Dec 2013 (which was brutal...). I was hoping that the TNF "training" offered some conditioning for the quads and shins for the endless stairs and slopes at Vibram.

The weather was glorious this year - literally the hottest edition ever. The day was blessed (or perhaps not) with a cloudless blue sky and at times, one could feel tinges of being sun-burnt. At night, I wore my usual layers and at times felt over-heated. But of course when the winds picked up, especially on exposed mountain ridges, I was grateful for the multiple shields they provided.

All in, I was slightly slower than my 2013 race timing. I reach CP5 (mid-point) around 10h, slightly later than usual. Getting to CP6 was always a lesson in mental endurance and the monotonous plodding on ever-upwards tarmac roads at CP7 and CP8 was sleep-walk-inducing. Reaching CP9 was always a mental joy and relief, for the end was near and dawn was breaking. Whatever screen-saver and snooze-mode that I had simply vanished and I was reminded of trekking through the Himalyan ridges, picking up speed and keeping a good pace over the giant boulders and winding terrain. Hitting the observatory in total fogginess was the cue to go forth and "sprint" (aka give it all) the last 4-5km down the circular roads to the end-point. Never mind the burning sensation in the knees or soreness on the soles, that was where the ever-useful trekking poles served their function well and supported my run. Klick-klack-klick-klack... focus on the chap in front, aim to overtake him, focus on the next target and close the gap,.... and finally one could hear the announcements from the end-point before the road opened up to the giant finishing banners.

23:20:49h (incl of a late start)
Overall: 841
Gender: 118

Happy to get my bronze trophy again. :)

This year, I also convinced/ conned 3 colleagues to join me in this crazy escapade. I think they are pretty sold on the event and enjoyed the experience so much that they are making plans for a return next year. Awwww..... spread the love, guys!


And in case anyone still needs convincing, here's a video found online that does a great overview of the race route and terrain. Enjoy!