An 18hr 50km Overnight Hike

I've had my longest hike in one shot the past weekend. My previous record was around 40km in perhaps 11 hours on the Hong Kong Trail, but the terrain was mostly nicely paved and much easier than what we did this time. This time we did Stages 2 to 5 of the MacLehose Trail, that is from Pak Tam Au to Kam Shan Country Park. (For a map and elevations of the trail, click here.) We went from 5pm on the 19th to 10:30am on the 20th. It was manageable, but more tiring than I thought. I think I didn't stretch out enough before I took my rests. Stage 5 was much more demanding on my quads than my cardio when going uphill. I'll have to make sure I stretch out thoroughly and apply Bengay before my every rest on the real day. For some reason, the arch of my right foot also hurt a lot during the later part of the hike. It was more painful going downhill. But it would also go away and return sometimes. I don't know what caused it and I hope it won't happen again. It really affected my speed cuz I couldn't bend my foot with that pain.

I caught a cold from the hike, though. I haven't had a cold for a long time and this time I caught it on the hills. It was really windy and quite chilly at night, especially when we were up on the top of the hills. I didn't bring any change of clothes, nor did I bring a jacket because I had limited room in my backpack so I took the chance.

I wasn't especially tired coming back from the hike. My legs weren't even sore, though they were tired. I definitely should watch my diet (I've been eating like a pig) and jog three times a week (I haven't jogged ever since I went to the States). I hope that'll bring my performance to the peak on the day of the race.

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