This year’s Oxfam Trailwalker in Hong Kong was monumental—it marked the 40th anniversary of the oldest and most iconic ultra race in the region. With over 4,000 entrants, the atmosphere was electric, and the stakes were high. I was fortunate to be part of an unforgettable race alongside an extraordinary team led by the legendary KK. Together, we finished first in the mixed team category and 7th overall, with a time of 14 hours and 58 minutes. It was a day of challenges, triumphs, and incredible teamwork. Here’s how it unfolded.
The Team
We were a diverse group, but one that clicked perfectly - left to right:
Me, Jo Lodder (8002C): Absorbing the energy and lessons from my teammates, learning more than ever about the true meaning of teamwork and resilience.
WenFei Xie (8002D): A powerhouse of determination. Watching her push through some of the toughest stretches of the course was both humbling and inspiring.
KK Chan (8002A): Our leader, pace-setter, and an icon of Trailwalker. With decades of experience, his reputation was unparalleled. Every checkpoint erupted in cheers for him—a true living legend.
Eric Chung (8002B): Steady and unflappable, Eric was a pillar of strength throughout the race. Always dependable and ready to step up when needed.
The Race Begins
The day started with torrential rain that quickly turned the early trails into a mud bath. The conditions were brutal—thick, slippery mud clung to our shoes, making every step a challenge. Yet, despite the chaos, I found confidence in my Topo MTN Racers 3. Their grip was exceptional, keeping me solid and secure even on the most treacherous downhill sections. While others struggled to stay upright, I never slipped once and felt strong, stable, and in control.
As we navigated the muddy trails, the landscape began to change. We transitioned from the chaos of the rain-soaked paths to the stunning beaches of Sai Kung Country Park. The contrast was breathtaking. Running along those serene, picturesque shores reminded me why I love trail running—it’s not just about the challenge but also the beauty of the journey.
Mid-Race: Tackling the Mountains with Poles
At the 50km mark, I switched to using Gripon 310 Mont Blanc Carbon 4 poles, which were a game-changer for me. Insanely light and perfectly fitting for my stride, these poles helped me tackle the steep ascents and descents, including the infamous Needle Hill and Tai Mo Shan. Not only did they make the climbs more manageable, but they also protected my legs, allowing me to conserve energy and remain strong for the final 20km.
Nutrition: The Engine Behind the Effort
Fueling for 100km requires precision, and I relied on a tried-and-tested mix of nutrition:
Huma Gels: 10 throughout the day, providing consistent energy.
UMARA Elderflower Sports Energy Drink: Alternated with water to keep hydration and energy levels balanced.
Naak Ultra Energy Waffle: A perfect, easy-to-digest snack.
Salted Boiled Potatoes & Vegan Congee by Novy’s Kitchen: These were a lifesaver at the 50km, 60km, and 80km marks.
Soda Water & Lucozade: Quick-refreshing boosts at checkpoints.
The Support Team: Formula 1 Precision
Our crew was a critical part of our success. At every checkpoint, they operated with the efficiency of a Formula 1 pit stop—fast, flawless, and perfectly coordinated. They anticipated our needs before we even asked, ensuring we were refueled and ready to keep moving. These moments, brief as they were, became lifelines that kept our momentum strong and our spirits high.
Moments That Defined the Race!
The Climb Up Needle Hill
Needle Hill is infamous among Hong Kong trail runners—a steep, punishing ascent that tests even the most seasoned athletes. Here, WenFei hit a tough moment, her energy visibly flagging. It was hard to see, but it was also where our team shone brightest. We rallied around her, sharing water, food, and words of encouragement. KK paced alongside her, while Eric and I carried extra supplies to lighten her load. Slowly but surely, she pushed through. By the time we reached the summit, the sense of accomplishment was palpable.
The Dark and Slippery Trails of Tai Mo Shan
As night fell, the technical terrain of Tai Mo Shan demanded absolute concentration. I remember leading at one point, lost in my own rhythm, and suddenly realizing I’d pulled too far ahead of the group. Eric’s voice brought me back: “Jo! Slow down!” It was a reminder of the ethos we had committed to—staying together, no matter what. I eased up, waiting for everyone to regroup, and we tackled the remainder of the climb as a unit.
KK’s Tactical Brilliance
KK’s racecraft became evident in the final stretches. With a rival team dangerously close behind, he turned off his headlamp in the dark, concealing our position. It was a small, clever move that kept the pressure on our competitors and gave us a psychological edge.
The Final 10km: A Battle to the Finish
The final 10 kilometers of the Oxfam Trailwalker were a relentless, heart-pounding race against time and our rivals. As we left the checkpoint at the base of Tai Mo Shan, we spotted one of the chasing teams arriving just as we were departing. The gap was razor-thin, and we knew they were coming for us.
This last stretch took us through a winding road section deep in the jungle, with nothing but the pitch-black night around us. The only light came from our headlamps—and the occasional, ominous flash of the chasing team’s lights. Every time their beams appeared behind us, our focus sharpened, and we pushed harder. Yet through it all, we stayed true to our strength: teamwork.
The Chase Heats Up
The tension was electric. With each glance over our shoulders, the flicker of their lights reminded us they were gaining. But no matter how close they got, we never let panic set in. Together, we dug deep, communicating constantly to keep our pace smooth and unbroken. WenFei, poles in hand, was a driving force. She led the way, her determination lighting a fire in all of us. I stayed close behind her, physically pushing her back at times to help her keep moving forward.
We climbed steadily, calling out words of encouragement. “Keep going, you are so strong, WenFei!” “We’ve got this!” Every step felt heavier, every breath harder, but we refused to let up.
Then, as we reached the final hill, one of the chasing team members surged ahead, passing us. My heart sank for a moment as he pulled ahead.
The Surge
As we neared the top, something incredible happened. The runner who had passed us stopped, looking back to wait for his team. That was the break we needed. WenFei and I surged forward, slipping past him without hesitation. We didn’t stop, didn’t look back—we simply pushed harder. Every step was a victory.
The descent down the road was fast, even though our legs had already run nearly 100km, we didn’t let up. When we hit the catchwater—a long, flat stretch leading to the final few kilometres—WenFei called out to Eric. He caught up in seconds, taking the lead and setting the pace. I grabbed WenFei’s poles to lighten her load as we locked into a rhythm, moving as one unit through the dark.
The Push to the Finish
The final kilometres were a blur of emotion and effort. We were physically spent but mentally unyielding. Every so often, we glanced back, expecting to see the chasing team bearing down on us, but we couldn’t afford to slow. KK, running with his headlamp off to keep our position hidden, brought up the rear with unmatched tactical brilliance.
Finally, the turnoff to Harrow School came into view, and relief flooded through us. Yet the fight wasn’t over. The volunteers shouted, “The other team is just behind you—keep running!” That was all the motivation we needed.
As we hit the final climb to the finish line, I waited briefly to ensure KK was with us. He appeared around the corner, two rivals on his heels. But they were struggling to keep up. With one last burst of energy, we came together, holding hands as we crossed the line.
Victory by a Hair
We finished 19 seconds ahead of the second-place team, collapsing in exhaustion but overwhelmed with pride. The emotions were indescribable—relief, elation, and pure joy. After 100 kilometers of brutal terrain, relentless rain, and constant competition, we had done it.
What made this victory so special wasn’t just the result—it was the way we achieved it. Every step of the way, we worked as a team, pushing and protecting each other, never breaking our bond. It was a battle to the very end, but we faced it together, and that made all the difference.
That final 10km wasn’t just a race—it was the ultimate test of grit, strategy, and teamwork. And together, we proved we were unstoppable.
Gear List: The Essentials for Success
Shoes: Topo MTN Racers 3
Sherpa Shorts & Commandos: T8
Socks: Decathlon Kiprun
Reflections
This race was more than a physical challenge—it was a masterclass in teamwork and resilience. Watching WenFei push through her toughest moments, seeing Eric’s unwavering focus, and experiencing KK’s strategic genius firsthand were lessons I’ll carry forever.
Personally, this race marked a milestone. I shaved over two hours off my previous 100km time, but the achievement wasn’t mine alone—it was a testament to the collective strength of our team. We achieved something extraordinary by staying united, supporting each other, and embracing our individual roles.
The 40th Oxfam Trailwalker will remain etched in my memory for the result and the journey. To my team—KK, Eric, and WenFei—thank you for teaching me what it means to run as one.
Jo Lodder is a trail runner, business leader, and philanthropist. He's the co-founder of JNW Asia, a property marketing company based in Hong Kong focused on Niseko property. And owner of the Ai digitail marketing company Envolv. He also became the first person in history to complete the HK5Trails in Hong Kong with the Run for Freedom challenge to raise money for charity.
With a passion for helping others and a drive for success, Jo inspires through his love of adventure and entrepreneurship.
Jo Lodder Quote of the day:
"In the darkest moments, we find the brightest strength—not in ourselves alone, but in the unbreakable bond of the team pushing forward together."
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