2024 BARCLAYS MOONTREKKER VICTORY!
Posted on October 28 2024
2024 Barclays MoonTrekker Event: A Night to Remember
We were so pleased to see a fantastic showing by the GR/JD Team in this years Barclays Moontrekker Race. We had the added excitements of having a large contingent of the ALTRA team in town to do the 20k race. It could not have gone better!!
The annual Barclays MoonTrekker event, held in the breathtaking landscapes of Lantau Island, Hong Kong, is not just a race; it's a journey under the stars. Participants from around the globe gather to test their limits, embarking on a night-time race that combines the thrill of adventure with the serenity of nature to beat the sun.
The Challenge
Barclays MoonTrekker is famed for its challenging courses, offering a mix of steep climbs, rugged terrain, and awe-inspiring vistas under the moonlit sky. This year's event featured three distances: the 40km, 30km and the 20km races. These routes demanded endurance, strategy, and an unyielding spirit from the trekkers.
Highlights from the Event
The event was graced with clear skies, allowing participants to race beneath a canopy of stars. The sight of the full moon reflecting off the South China Sea added an ethereal beauty to the grueling challenge.
Barclays MoonTrekker is as much about camaraderie as it is about competition. Runners supported each other through tough sections, forming bonds that went beyond the finish line. The event also emphasized sustainability, with eco-friendly practices to preserve the natural beauty of Lantau Island.
The 2024 Barclays MoonTrekker saw an impressive turnout from the Gone Running / Joint Dynamics / Altra team whose members not only participated but excelled.
We asked the winners a few questions
40km solo #1 Jeff Campbell
GR What was your most enjoyable part?
Jeff "For Moontrekker, it’s so hard to pick a most enjoyable part. I think the Mui Wo start line, vibrant checkpoints and beachfront finish line are all special and unique."
GR What was your most challenging part?
Jeff "Trying to keep up with my pal Alex Neyrinck in the first 15km! We were really pushing a hard pace through the section of the race. He ended up dropping out of the race at CP1, but I tried to keep that quick pace all the way to the finish line."
GR What was your average HR and did you run with HR plan ?
Jeff "My average HR for the race was 160bpm, but it maxed out at 173. That’s about right for a 40km trail race for me, where I was to maintain a hard but sustainable effort for the whole duration. I don’t have a HR plan, but I do check my HR in the early parts of the race to make sure I’m not over exerting myself early on."
GR What nutrition did you use during the race?
Jeff "I try to take 1 gel every 30 minutes, and supplement that with sports drink at the checkpoints. However, despite my best efforts, my nutrition plan usually goes out the window in the later stages of the race."
GR What is your overall comment of this race?
Jeff "It’s one of my favourites. A unique and iconic HK event, and I’m really proud to take home the win this year!"
30km solo #1 Ryan Whelan
GR What was the best part of the night for you?
Ryan "The best part is of course finishing, hanging out with your mates over a burger and a cold beer"
GR What was the most difficult part of the night for you?
Ryan "Most difficult, Lantau Peak of course! And with it being a night race, the sore neck from turning your back to see if second place is coming 👀"
GR What nutrition did you use for the race?
Ryan "My nutrition was simple - tailwind and vital amino gels."
GR What was your average heart rate?
Ryan "My average heart rate for this warm night was 161bpm"
GR Can you give an overall comment on your experience?
Ryan "I would recommend moontrekker to anyone new to trail running or new to HK - such a good vibe race."
20km solo #1 Fabio Marangoni - ALTRA Europe and Asia
As ALTRA was the shoe sponsor for the race we were so excited to have a strong contingents from the senior team in the US and Europe combined with 25 of the Asia Distribution Team. The ALTRA crowd were so happy to secure 1st, 2nd, 3rd 4th, and 5th in the 20km race!! Fabio Marangoni come in in 1st Place!!
GR What was your most enjoyable part?
Fabio "The downhill section starting from kilometer 9 was the most enjoyable part for me. It was amazing to run down and pass a lot of people. The thrill of the descent and the competitive spirit made it a memorable experience."
GR What was your most challenging part?
Fabio "The most challenging part was the road along the canal at the 2-kilometer mark towards the end. It was flat and dark, and I was very tired by that point. The lack of visibility and my fatigue made it a tough section to get through."
GR What was your average heart rate, and did you run with a heart rate plan?
Fabio "My average heart rate during the race was 160 bpm, with a peak of 183 bpm from the 3-kilometer mark to the finish line. I did follow a heart rate plan to ensure I stayed within my optimal range for most of the race, which helped me manage my energy levels effectively."
GR What nutrition plan did you use during the race?
Fabio "I followed a nutrition plan where I took Tailwind or Fixx nutrition every 30 minutes and drank a lot of water. In total, I consumed about 2 liters of water throughout the race. This strategy helped me stay hydrated and maintain my energy levels."
GR What is your overall comment on this race?
Fabio "This race was an amazing experience. The event was well-organized, with great people and challenging yet enjoyable uphills that were pretty technical and steep. The track offered stunning views, especially seeing the sea from the top of the hill. Finishing on the beach was a unique touch, and the hospitality of the people there was incredible. Sharing a few beers, a delicious burger with fellow runners, great staff at the Altra running booth was the perfect way to end the race. What more could you ask for? I absolutely loved it."
The Role of Gone Running
Gone Running has been a pivotal part of the Hong Kong running community, providing top-notch gear and fostering a sense of community among runners. Their success at Barclays MoonTrekker is a testament to their dedication to the sport and their support for athletes at all levels.
The 2024 Barclays MoonTrekker was not just a race; it was a celebration of human endurance, community spirit, and the beauty of nature. Congratulations to all participants and especially to the winners from Gone Running! Here's to more adventures under the moonlit skies.
Stay tuned for more updates and stories from the running community. Until next year, keep trekking!
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