Six training and racing tips from a seasoned Hong Kong distance runner

In a solitary sport such as running, opportunities to race in a team are rare. That’s why Chris Wharton is lacing up for the fifth time this year to take part in corporate team event the Bloomberg Square Mile Relay, despite the distance being a fraction of what he’s used to as a long-distance runner.

“It’s a little short for me, if I’m honest,” says Wharton, 41, a compliance manager at Macquarie Group and this year’s captain for the company. “But being part of a team can really add to the excitement of an event. It’s something many other sports people take for granted.”

Teams must run a total of 16 kilometres, broken up into one-mile (1.6-kilometre) loops, around Edinburgh Place in Hong Kong’s Central business district. Up to 10 runners can take part, or team members can double up. The team with the fastest cumulative time wins, and will be able to donate HK$80,000 to a charity of their choice.

Wharton has taken part in all the Hong Kong races to date, as well as two events in London. “What I really like about this is that it’s the team’s total time that really matters, so everyone has a part to play whatever speed they run at," he says.

“It also brings staff together from across the workplace. I’ve had the chance to make friends with people I wouldn’t otherwise have met.”