Four seasoned runners are set to celebrate the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games in style by running from Hong Kong to Beijing. At the same time, they are hoping to raise HK$1 million with their run for three local and mainland organizations.

On June 6, K K Chan, Law Kwong-keung, Law Chor-kin and Wong Wai-kin, who are collectively known as the Cosmoboys, will start their trek from Sheung Shui in Hong Kong to Beijing via the State Highway 107, passing through Guangdong, Hunan, Hubei, Henan and Hebei provinces.

The runners are to start their journey at 8:08am on the day to signify the opening of the Beijing Olympic Games on August 8.

"We will run 42-43km in about 4.5 hours per day from about 6am as it is relatively cooler at that time, " said Chan, who is the leader of the team.

The total distance is over 2,600km and it will take the four about two months to complete the whole trek and reach the National Stadium (commonly known as the Bird's Nest) on August 2.

As a safety precaution, the organizers will arrange a doctor, two masseurs and supporting staff to accompany them on their trip. One of the sponsors, the China Travel Service, will provide accommodation with meals, as well as an experienced tour guide to accompany the runners.

Funds raised will be donated to the Hong Kong Elite Athletes Association, Chinese Athletes Educational Foundation and Hok Yau Club, one of the local leading youth associations.

(HK Edition 05/06/2008 page1)