HONG KONG, CHINA. Almost 11,000 participants celebrated the imminent launch of three-runway operations at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) on 17 November by taking part in a 10k race on the Centre Runway.
The event was co-presented by title sponsors Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) and Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) and organised by the Hong Kong, China Association of Athletics Affiliates. The race gave participants “the unique experience of running in the midst of a fully operational airport”, said AAHK.
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Acting Chief Executive Chan Kwok-ki officiated at the starting ceremony together with AAHK Chairman Fred Lam; Standard Chartered Bank President, International Benjamin Hung; and Hong Kong, China Association of Athletics Affiliates Chair Kwan Kee.
The Three-Runway System 10km International Race was the first running event held at a fully operational airport in Hong Kong. The event attracted top-tier athletes from Hong Kong and around the world by offering the rare experience of running on a runway with aircraft taking off and landing nearby.
Displays of special vehicles for airport operation and helicopters in the finishing area added to the excitement and enticed many participants to capture photos on the apron and runway.
Teams and individuals from various sectors, including government, the Legislative Council, business and the airport community, took part. Among the participants was The Moodie Davitt Report Events Director Vincci Chung.
Plaza Premium Group lends strong support
Airport hospitality services provider Plaza Premium Group was among the sponsoring partners of the event, with Founder and CEO Song Hoi See taking part in a Leaders’ Cup race. Over 50 people from the group also raced, including Chief Commercial Officer Jonathan Song and Chief Transformation Officer Mei Mei Song.
Executive Director Linda Song presented the winners’ awards for the 5km race. Categories included 10km, 5km, 3km and 10km Wheelchair Races as well as the 10km Women’s Elite Challenge.
Song Hoi See said: “I am honoured to have joined the Leaders Cup with other fellow leaders, of course, to be part of this landmark event together with the PPG team and share this special moment on the runway.
“Over the past 26 years, we have witnessed the growth and transformation of Hong Kong International Airport. We are proud to celebrate another major milestone in Hong Kong’s aviation history together, right where our journey began. We are excited to enter a new stage with them.”
Jonathan Song added: “At PPG, we are committed to promoting health and wellness. This event served as a great opportunity for the airport community to connect through sports as well as to encourage our team to be active.” ✈
