As We Run, We Become

Sometimes in life we look but we don’t see, and listen, but not hear. I believe that the American marathoner Amby Burfoot, was thinking along those lines when she said: “As we run, we become. Winning is about struggle and effort and optimism and never, ever, ever giving up.” The act of running is indeed physical, but the practice begets changes on a far deeper level.

Late last year our Christian Action Centre of Refugees (CFR) co-organized a three month long community running event for Hong Kong residents and refugees. Jeffrey Andrews, who heads up CFR, saw it as a tremendous opportunity for new friendships to be made and for local runners to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges refugees face. Running would not resolve their on-going legal procedures, or resolve their fear of deportation, or the policies that prevent them from working, or help increase the meagre living allowance they receive from the government, but it could improve mental and physical health!

The event consisted of a once-a-week run, and ran from early September, through to the end of December 2023. It was a huge success with over 40 participants and culminated in a Christmas party on the roof-top of Chung King Mansions.

One runner who I would like to highlight was Lina (not her real name), who fled her native Nepal for Hong Kong with her children 14 years ago. She was a good runner before, but since arriving, she didn’t have time to train, but yearned to introduce her children to her favourite sport. She has suffered from constant anxiety and depression but the event has offered a new beginning. Although it was only for four months, it was just long enough for her and her children to start a new, shared exercise habit and grow an even deeper love for one another.

Last year’s event is just one of many, many programs that CFR put on for the benefit of Hong Kong and our service users. Please support these vital programs by clicking here or to find out more about CFR!

Warm-up exercise in Tsim Sha Tsui