SD Runners: Where Hong Kong's Design Scene Hits the Pavement
In 2012, two visionary friends, Domi and Tom, had an idea to establish a new kind of running crew in the heart of Hong Kong. SD Runners was born as a platform for graduates and students from The PolyU School of Design and other creative industries to unite, bond over shared passions, and challenge the prevailing assumptions about their work-life balance. With a primary focus on promoting an active and healthy lifestyle, SD Runners quickly grew into a tight-knit community that transcends the boundaries of a typical running club.
A Philosophy of Creative Balance
The philosophy of SD Runners is to provide a space where the city's creative minds can find balance, community, and an outlet for a healthy lifestyle. The crew was founded to challenge the notion that a demanding career in a creative field must come at the expense of one's well-being. What sets them apart is the shared belief that running is not merely a form of exercise but also a means of building lasting friendships, supporting one another's goals, and fostering genuine connections.
The culture of SD Runners is a brilliant blend of urban exploration and culinary delight. Their main activity is a weekly run that takes place every Wednesday evening, with members eagerly gathering on the renowned PolyU campus. From this starting point, the crew explores different routes each time, ensuring every run is a fresh and exciting experience. One of the most delightful aspects of being an SD Runner is the post-run dining experience. After each run, the crew carefully selects a different restaurant or eatery, offering members a chance to refuel, relax, and bond over a satisfying meal, from hidden local gems to trendy international spots.
SD Runners welcomes anyone with a passion for running and a desire to connect with like-minded individuals from Hong Kong's creative scene. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting your fitness journey, this remarkable crew embraces runners of all levels. By joining them, you'll not only explore the beautiful city of Hong Kong but also become part of a tight-knit community that supports and encourages personal growth.
The Hong Kong Running Scene
While SD Runners holds a special place for the city's design community, they are part of a thriving and diverse running scene in Hong Kong. The city is home to a multitude of other crews, including the large and social Hong Kong Harbour Runners, the fun-loving Wazup Running, and the female-led Prism Runners. This vibrant ecosystem reflects the global nature of the running movement, bringing people together regardless of their backgrounds.
Hong Kong's bustling streets and dynamic cityscape create a unique and invigorating backdrop for runners. The city offers a diverse range of running options, from the iconic Victoria Harbour waterfront to the challenging ascent up Victoria Peak. The combination of urban excitement and stunning natural beauty makes running in Hong Kong an exhilarating experience. The city's premier road racing event is the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon, while for trail enthusiasts, the TransLantau offers a grueling and spectacular ultramarathon challenge.
