So, here’s a question: what do weathermen and stock market analysts have in common?
Answer: They both predict something after it has happened!

So, for instance, if the Hang Seng index has fallen 200 points, an “expert” comes up with some wild cock and bull story about how hot money is flowing out of Hong Kong. Had the index gone up 200 points, the expert now claims it’s because hot money is coming into Hong Kong!

Likewise today, the weathermen forecast sunny periods and about 16-22 degrees. But as we reached The Peak to embark on a 50km HK Trail hike/run, it started pouring down! It was cold, windy and raining. (I am sure the weathermen now have some explanation about some Northeastern trough from Guangdong bringing rainy weather to Hong Kong!)

But, rain or no rain, sun or no sun, wind or no wind, the great Hikespeare has said “The hike must go on!”

And so we started at about 0810 HKT with a mission to complete the HK trail within 6 hours by pretty much running all of it! (that’s 50km)

Several members quit leaving two of us to brave the rain and the cold weather. As I did so, my clothes got much heavier as the tee shirt and shorts absorbed water like a sponge!

After several hours of steady running, we reached Dragon’s back at 1300 HKT and it started raining cats and dogs! I was already wet but now I was completely drenched! The falling rain drops were turned into mini missiles by the wind and these in turn, hit my eyes and ears with great intensity! It felt as though someone was playing drums next to my ear. But, as the famous Hikespeare has said, “The hike must go on!”

With much determination, we completed the hike 20 minutes before schedule! 5 hours 40 minutes is what it took and we treated ourselves to some well deserved noodles at Big Wave bay.

Good thing is that I felt fine despite a 50km hike/run and had no problems. I enjoyed the rain and the relatively cool weather. Bad news is that all my electronic gizmos including my much treasured phone ended up HATING the rain. My phone no longer works and I am now in the process of giving it the kiss of life (getting a hairdryer to smooch and heat the phone!)

Here’s the map for the day (manged to revive the GPS receiver using the same hairdryer kiss of life method!)

Map

Stats: 50Km (5 hrs 40 minutes to complete against a 6 hour target under pouring rain!)


Tags: Hiking in Hong Kong, Hong Kong Trail, Rain

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