Hong Kong Disneyland annual 10K event promotes inclusivity and healthy living

This year’s Hong Kong Disneyland (HKDL) Resort’s 10K event held from 2nd to 3rd November encouraged accessibility and sports inclusivity while also demonstrating its continued commitment to environmental protection.

The event attracted more than 10,000 local and international runners, joining over 100 Disney and Pixar characters and performers who enthusiastically cheered on the runners throughout the park and resort area. Leaders from various sectors from tourism to non-profit organisations showed their support by participating in the “HKDL Leadership 3K” race to promote healthy living.

Stephanie Young, managing director at HKDL noted “we are so proud to see so many happy faces at this fourth edition of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s 10K Weekend, which is a great way to encourage healthy living and exercise in the most unique way imaginable. We have a few exciting developments to reflect our continued efforts on sustainability, diversity and healthy living this year. One such way is through our sponsorship of the Hong Kong Federation of Handicapped Youth (HKFHY), helping more children and young people with disabilities enjoy outdoor exercises and fitness activities. It means so much to us to see many people with different abilities and backgrounds come together to take part in the 10K Weekend each year.”

Peter Crewe, Chief Executive AIA Hong Kong & Macau added “we are thrilled to be the presenting sponsor at the 10K Weekend for the fourth consecutive year in the name of AIA Vitality. This event combines fun and exercise for people of all ages and has been well-received by the community every year. We will continue to strengthen our collaboration with Hong Kong Disneyland Resort to create more magical experiences for the community, fulfilling our brand promise of helping people live healthier, longer, better lives.”

Encouraging disability inclusion and green initiatives
For this year’s event, to further encourage accessibility and demonstrate the spirit of sports for all, the resort donated a portion of proceeds to the HKFHY to support its “HKFHY Momentum Academy” program. The project gives children and youth with disabilities the opportunity to take part in sports and outdoor activities to support physical strength, social experiences, confidence, and a healthy lifestyle. Around 60 runners from HKFHY – including those with visual, hearing and physical disabilities –participated in the “Monsters, Inc. 3K” race on 3rd November.

The 10K Weekend was also an opportunity for HKDL to demonstrate its continued commitment to environmental protection. Last year’s event was recognised with a “Green Outdoor Event” award from The Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence alongside the Environmental Protection Department. With the goal of achieving a carbon-neutral event, this year’s event also collaborated with various green groups to recycle plastic bottles, paper water cups and other recyclable items.

Water dispensers and 3,000 reusable water cups were provided in support of the Reusable Tableware Lending Program launched by the Environmental Campaign Committee and the Environmental Protection Department.

To encourage runners to take part in raising awareness for environmental protection and supporting green initiatives, a HK$10 discount on the event’s food and merchandise items was available for runners who shared photos of their own bottles #10KWeekendBYOBottle.

This year, each gold medal winner in the “Toy Story 10K” race was upgraded to a stay at the Kingdom Club Cinderella Suite or Kingdom Club Frozen Suite at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel.

More events and attractions are scheduled in the coming years at HKDL. The transformed Castle of Magical Dreams is scheduled to open in 2020, with a new nighttime spectacular as well as a new daytime show. In 2021, HKDL will also welcome the first-ever themed area based on the world of “Frozen” complete with all its sights, sounds, cuisine, and traditions. Following the recent openings of Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle! and Iron Man Experience, more Marvel offerings are in store for the coming years.