Record-breaking Participation at Disney’s 10K Weekend 2024 with Unprecedented Run Through World of Frozen

The recent ‘Hong Kong Disneyland 10K Weekend 2024 - Presented by AIA Vitality’ transformed the magical realm of Disneyland into a vibrant running festival, attracting nearly 20,000 participants from Hong Kong, mainland China, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand, and beyond. This year’s event not only set a record for international participation but also introduced a series of exciting new features that enhanced the experience for runners of all ages and abilities.

A first-of-its-kind experience

For the first time, participants had the unique opportunity to run through the ‘World of Frozen,’ the world’s largest and first-ever ‘Frozen’-themed land in the world. As runners gathered at the starting line, they were greeted by the beloved royal sisters, Queen Anna and Elsa. Their presence, along with other iconic Disney characters such as Mickey and Friends, Duffy and Friends, and Marvel Super Heroes, infused the event with a sense of enchantment and excitement.

This year’s excitement soared with the introduction of new award categories, including champions and runners-up for the ‘Pixar Pals 5K’ race. Additionally, the inaugural ‘Disney-Style Runway Awards’ encouraged runners, families, and children to showcase their favorite Disney attire, adding to the magic and memorability of the event.

Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Paul Chan, served as the guest of honor at the event. He highlighted the importance of the weekend, describing it as a dynamic blend of tourism, sports, and philanthropy that caters to families and individuals of all ages.

Chan added, “In addition to locals, many athletes and Disney fans from mainland China and overseas have come to Hong Kong specifically for this event. It also promotes inclusivity by inviting participants with disabilities. Hong Kong has a wealth of tourism resources and as long as we keep coming up with new ideas, we can keep attracting more tourists from around the world. Today’s event, combining tourism, sports, and philanthropy, is a great example.”

The resort believed the event helped boost tourism in Hong Kong and drove spending from both locals and overnight tourists. A spokesperson shared, “Nearly 20,000 runners and Disney fans from Hong Kong, mainland China, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand and beyond, gathered at the starting line, marking a record number of participants internationally and overall. During this sports tourism mega event, the occupancy rate of the three resort’s hotels reached almost 100%, of which nearly 80% were overseas and mainland Chinese tourists.”

Expanding opportunities and promoting inclusivity

The 10K Weekend has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. This year, around 80 runners with visual, hearing, and physical disabilities participated. Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) has collaborated with organizations like the Hong Kong Federation of Handicapped Youth, the Hong Kong Joint Council for People with Disabilities, and Ebenezer School.

Michael Moriarty, managing director of HKDL, expressed his delight at the growing scale of the event. “We’re thrilled to see the most magical run to become bigger and better every year, with a record of nearly 20,000 runners and Disney fans from Hong Kong and around the world joining. It’s also an incredible opportunity to showcase the fun and magic that Hong Kong Disneyland and Hong Kong have to offer.”

A commitment to sustainability

In addition to promoting health and inclusivity, HKDL demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability during the 10K Weekend. Collaborating with The Green Earth, the resort implemented initiatives to reduce waste and promote recycling. Water dispensers were placed along the routes, and an on-site recycling program was established for various materials, including paper cups, plastic bottles, and food waste. By eliminating individual packing from the procurement stage, the event significantly reduced plastic use.

Recognizing excellence

The 10K Weekend celebrated the achievements of its participants with a variety of awards and prizes. Champions of the ‘Marvel Super Heroes 10K’ race earned a one-night stay at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, either in the Kingdom Club Cinderella Suite or the Frozen Suite, along with HK$1,000 in dining vouchers.

Winners of the ‘Pixar Pals 5K’ race received similar rewards, fostering a spirit of friendly competition and recognition among the runners.

And the newly introduced ‘Disney-Style Runway Award’ encouraged participants to showcase their creativity by dressing in their favorite Disney attire, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.

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