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(From the left) Harry Chan, OPCFHK Marine Conservation Ambassador, Yvette Kong, OPCFHK Ambassador, Peter Wong, Fundraising Committee member of OPCFHK, Ysanne Chan, Trustee Member of OPCFHK, Ivan Wong, Chief Executive of Ocean Park Corporation and Trustee Member of OPCFHK, Patrick Lai, Assistant Director (Fisheries and Marine Conservation) of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Judy Chen, Foundation Chair of OPCFHK, Artist Tony Hung, Richard Tsang, Trustee Member and Fundraising Committee Chair of OPCFHK, Virginia Yung, Fundraising Committee member of OPCFHK, Francis Cheng, Fundraising Committee member of OPCFHK, Howard Chuk, Foundation Director of OPCFHK, Dr Xoni Ma, Board members of Ocean Park.
(HONG KONG, 3 December 2023) Organised by Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, Hong Kong (OPCFHK), the annual charity run event Run For Survival 2023 concluded successfully today, attracting more than 1,800 runners and volunteers to participate in this meaningful event. The event was held at Ocean Park with the theme Saving Our Biodiversity, promoting the need to enhance awareness of biodiversity and marine conservation.
With the generous support of participants, volunteers and sponsors, the funds raised from the charity run will be used to support Asian wildlife conservation efforts. Since its expansion in 2005, OPCFHK has allocated over HK$103 million to fund 560 research projects on species including cetaceans, giant pandas, and freshwater turtles.
Run For Survival 2023 has generated significant attention and garnered widespread support from influential leaders, dedicated OPCFHK ambassadors, and accomplished star runners, all driven by their profound passion for conservation. Patrick Lai, Assistant Director (Fisheries and Marine Conservation) of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), Ivan Wong, Chief Executive of Ocean Park Corporation and Trustee Member of OPCFHK, Howard Chuk, Foundation Director of OPCFHK, OPCFHK Ambassadors Jessica Ng, Yvette Kong and Sarah Zhuang, as well as OPCFHK Marine Conservation Ambassador Harry Chan, Artist Tony Hung and corporates partners, together with the board members of Ocean Park Corporation, wholeheartedly embraced the challenge of the 3km Leaders’ Run with unwavering determination to protect and preserve biodiversity.
“The AFCD is dedicated to nature conservation and its promotion. We have been working hand in hand with the OPCFHK all these years in conservation including investigation of stranding of marine animals and reef checks to minimise the loss of marine habitats and species,” said Patrick Lai, Assistant Director (Fisheries and Marine Conservation) of the AFCD.
During the Award Presentation Ceremony, officiating guests Judy Chen, Foundation Chair of OPCFHK, Patrick Lai, Assistant Director (Fisheries and Marine Conservation) of the AFCD, Richard Tsang, Trustee Member and Fundraising Committee Chair of OPCFHK, together with Trustee Members, Fundraising Committee Members and Ambassadors of OPCFHK, as well as Artist Tony Hung emphasised the significance of biodiversity to the public and highlighted the challenges encountered by marine life. They also shared valuable daily eco-friendly insights, encouraging event participants to actively engage in safeguarding the environment and collectively shaping a sustainable future.
“Biodiversity is facing severe risks due to factors such as climate change, plastic pollution, overfishing, illegal wildlife trade, and habitat loss. Uniting nature enthusiasts and committed to safeguarding our biodiversity, OPCFHK has consistently supported research and conservation endeavours within local and Asian communities for numerous years, alongside a wide range of education programmes and initiatives. In addition, this year’s race introduces the exciting new 1km Kid Run, inspiring the next generation with the message of conservation. Families are invited to embrace their role as "Conservation Heroes" and learn how to protect biodiversity while having fun,” said Judy Chen, Foundation Chair of OPCFHK.
Artist Tony Hung's profound appreciation for biodiversity conservation stems from his extensive travels across the globe. Through his journeys, he has explored diverse landscapes, showcasing the vibrant facets of nature in television programmes. “Human beings and the diverse species on Earth are interconnected in a complex web of life. Recognising the threats to biodiversity, I am determined to make a positive impact on the environment. One way I intend to do this is by supporting OPCFHK through my participation in the 3km Leaders’ Run today, while also urging others to join me in safeguarding nature and wildlife. Our daily habits also play a crucial role in the mindful use of natural resources and reducing environmental pollution. Small changes, such as minimising the use of disposable plastic products, can make a significant difference. I extend a warm invitation to everyone to embrace these practices while actively engaging in OPCFHK's diverse conservation efforts. By doing so, we can directly contribute to the protection of wildlife habitats,” said Tony Hung.
Run For Survival 2023 offers various race categories to suit different age groups and levels of experience, including the 5km individual Timed Challenge, 3km Fun Run (Individual), 3km Fun Run (Family) and 1km Kid Run (Family). Families participating in 1km Kid Run (Family) conquer five checkpoints together, engaging in interactive activities that showcase the threats faced by the wildlife. Challenges include rescuing sea creatures entangled in fishing nets at the “Save Marine Lives” booth, navigating through marine debris at the “Escape from the Dark” booth, and ultimately identifying friendly behaviours towards environment and wildlife in the final stages. Participants receive medals and numerous gifts upon completion. In addition to the exciting race, the Ocean Park Conservation Day was held concurrently, providing visitors with opportunities to enjoy more fun and learn about biodiversity through game booths and workshops.
Photos from the Run For Survival 2023
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