TransLantau included on Spartan Trail World Championship; US$18,000 in prize money to be split among winners
- Hong Kong’s 100km race across Lantau is one of 10 races on the world circuit, which includes an unprecedented prize pot
- Organisers say the international make-up of participants attracted Spartan to attach its brand to TransLantau
The 104km TransLantau has been placed on the Spartan Trail World Championship series. It is one of 10 races on the circuit and will now offer US$18,000 (around HK$140,000) in prize money.
“It’s a real international event. We have 43 different nationalities and 40 per cent of our runners come from overseas. We have good media coverage in many countries, not just Hong Kong. That is why we were approached by Spartan,” said TransLantau organiser Sabrina Dumont.
One of the most significant elements, which sets it apart from similar world circuits such as the Ultra-Trail World Tour, is the prize money.
Spartan Trail’s approach is a snub to UTMB and UTWT
The male and female winners of the 104km TransLantau, set to take place in November, will receive US$2,000 each. Second to fifth place receives US$1,500, US$800, US$600 and US$400. There is also a 43km race, with prizes of US$1,500, US$1,000, US$600, US$400 and US$200 on offer.
The other nine races on the series are Transgrancanaria, Patagonia Run, Lavaredo Ultra Trail, Brisbane Trail Ultra, Fjallmarathon, Ultra Pirineu, Borneo Trail Classic, Golden Gate Trail Classic and Aconcagua Ultra Trail.
“The difference now is that we have significant prizes, cash prizes. If people can travel, we’ll have more elite runners. We’ll also have better medals and hoodies. But otherwise, it will be the same with great big names,” Dumont said.
“Big names already run in Hong Kong, but not for the money, just for the challenge. I think it’s normal that runners like to see elite runners and they can check their times against professionals,” Dumont said.
There is another cash prize for the overall winner of the series. TransLantau will be the second or third last race of the series.
“So if there are two runners close to each other, one of the final battles will be here. That will make it even more exciting” Dumont added.
“Lantau Island is the biggest and wildest island in Hong Kong. It will show international runners it is not just buildings, banks and shopping mauls. It will show Hong Kong is unique.”
