Team members share extraordinary and memorable experiences at the opening ceremony of the “FWD North Pole Marathon 2017 Exhibition”


Hong Kong, 24 April, 2017 – The FWD team triumphantly returned to Hong Kong from taking part in the “FWD North Pole Marathon 2017” earlier this month. The team members overcame a number of first-time challenges including running a marathon on frozen ice at a latitude of 89° North while enduring temperatures averaging -40℃ and staying there for over 50 hours, and starting the competition at night on the same day as their arrival. The unique experiences the team members had together make a precious part of their life journeys. 

To share the FWD team’s unique experiences and passion for achieving goals with the rest of Hong Kong, FWD Hong Kong is hosting the FWD North Pole Marathon 2017 Exhibition. Open to the public at the FWD Passion Lab, the exhibition starts tomorrow  (25 April) and lasts until 22 May. Simulating the North Pole Marathon environment, visitors will be able to experience four dynamic zones, namely the photo zone, equipment and gear zone, video corner and mini-game zone that will bring the FWD team’s adventurous North Pole journey to life.

David Wong, Chief Executive Officer of FWD Hong Kong & Macau, said at the exhibition opening ceremony, “The FWD team was made up of professional and amateur runners from different nations. They encouraged and supported each other through the competition and achieved great results together. I am so proud of their passionate teamwork!” 

David continued, “By hosting the FWD North Pole Marathon 2017 Exhibition at the FWD Passion Lab, we want to share the exciting experiences and memorable moments of the team, which were captured and documented by the team’s photographer. The passion and perseverance of each team member make them great examples of how Hong Kong people live life to the fullest.” 

The FWD team members also shared their memorable experiences in the exhibition:

Christy Yiu, third place winner in the Women’s Marathon, said, “The first few hundred meters of the race was on a straight track covered by thinner snow. Very soon I turned into areas of soft, thick and uneven snow, and fell five to six times in a loop with my legs and elbows stuck in snow. Despite the thought of giving up flashing through my mind, I managed to overcome the extreme challenge and unexpectedly achieved a good result thanks to the encouragement and support of my teammates and Ka-ho. I guess the will and perseverance as a dedicated athlete also gave me the extra motivation to finish the race!”

Chan Ka-ho, who came fourth in the Men’s Marathon, said, “This is the first time my wife Christy and I participated in a marathon outside Hong Kong together. Racing in extreme weather was the most extraordinary experience to us! Our common goal for the race was to complete it safely and the good results are really a bonus. What touched me the most was Christy’s support. To witness my crossing of the finish line, she actually paused during her race and cheered for me! This for sure is the most precious moment of our North Pole trip to remember!” 

Steve Lo, runner from FWD Hong Kong, remarked, “I was fascinated to revisit the North Pole. The practical experience from the last competition did help me better enjoy the race this time and perform my best. Being able to join the race with Ka-ho and Christy, two famous long-distance runners from Hong Kong, and breaking my personal record from the last North Pole run are undoubtedly one of the most valuable experiences in my life. I am so grateful for the company’s support on my participation of this year’s race. Going forward, I wish to better demonstrate the spirit of FWD - daring to take on challenges, and living life to the fullest - in different aspects of my life.”   

Andy Chik, runner from FWD Hong Kong, said, “Not long after competing in the World Marathon Challenge, "7 Marathons 7 Continents 7 Days" I had to start preparing for the North Pole Marathon, which was a tough challenge both physically and mentally. Being awarded the honour of “World Marathon Majors” by the North Pole Marathon organiser is obviously an unforgettable accomplishment in my life. By participating in the race, I also want to spread out positive messages, to encourage and motivate Hong Kong youngsters to believe in themselves, and to have the courage to overcome challenges and achieve their life goals!”

- End -

About FWD Hong Kong & Macau

FWD Group spans Hong Kong & Macau, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam and Japan. In Hong Kong, FWD offers life and medical insurance, general insurance, employee benefits, and financial planning. The life insurance and general insurance operating entities have been assigned strong financial strength ratings by international rating agencies — FWD Life Insurance Company (Bermuda) Limited is rated “A3” by Moody’s and “A” by Fitch; and FWD General Insurance Company Limited is rated “A” by Fitch.

FWD is focused on creating fresh customer experiences, with easy-to-understand products, supported by digital technology. Through this customer-led approach, FWD aims to become a leading pan-Asian insurer that changes the way people feel about insurance.

Established in Asia in 2013, FWD is the insurance business of investment group, Pacific Century Group.

For more information please visit WWW.FWD.COM.HK and WWW.FWD.COM.MO.