When Gary Leung lost his sight almost 25 years ago, it plunged him into a deep emotional abyss. The Hong Kong native battled depression, contemplating suicide as he grappled with the challenges of living in complete darkness. However, a life-changing discovery awaited him – the world of long-distance running.
Now in his 50s, Leung has conquered remarkable feats in the realm of ultra-running. He achieved the distinction of being the first blind person to complete the 100-kilometer Antarctic Ice Marathon. His accomplishments also include conquering the grueling 400km ‘Ultra Gobi,’ known as one of the toughest foot races globally. Recently, Leung concluded a 2,300km charity run from Kagoshima in southern Japan’s Kyushu Island to northern Aomori on Honshu, the country’s main island.
The Japanese “Dark Run 2023” unfolded over 40 days, with Leung and his rotating team of guide runners, connected by a string attachment, covering an average of more than 50km per day. The journey was not without challenges, as narrow district roads necessitated adjustments to their plans, redirecting them to suitable off-road spaces to complete their pre-planned distances before moving to the next leg.
Beyond personal achievements, the run served a noble purpose – raising funds for young people with critical illnesses through the Roly Poly Inclusion Movement Association, a local non-profit. The initiative generated over HKD300,000 (US$38,000), benefiting Make-A-Wish Hong Kong.
Leung’s motivation goes beyond personal triumphs; he aims to inspire children facing critical illnesses. Born with a rare retinal disease that ultimately resulted in complete blindness, Leung believes in confronting obstacles with bravery. He wants to show children that overcoming challenges is possible, even in the face of severe difficulties.
Reflecting on his unique perspective, Leung emphasizes that lacking something doesn’t warrant fear. He believes that individuals possess unique talents, and the universe blesses them accordingly. During his run, he was not alone, supported by guide runners who sacrificed holidays and funds to assist him.
Anita Lai, the beneficiary’s chair, commends Leung’s “arduous effort” in Japan as an inspiration for child patients, encouraging them to combat illnesses with a positive attitude. Leung, the first visually impaired runner in Hong Kong with a long-distance coaching license, harbors ambitions beyond his remarkable endurance feats.
“I want to pass the torch. I’m not the youngest anymore and won’t be able to run these distances much longer,” he says. Leung envisions creating a platform to help younger friends with similar impairments develop a love for exercise, recognizing the unique challenges they face. His next venture is the Marathon des Sables, a 250km desert run from Morocco to France, scheduled for next April.
Looking ahead, Leung and his team plan to blueprint an endurance course closer to home, with an ambitious goal in mind – running the circumference of South Korea. Leung emphasizes that his vision extends beyond personal achievements; it’s about inspiring others with visual impairments and creating a community where they can share their experiences and motivate one another.
In Leung’s world, it’s never just about him; it’s about passing the torch, fostering resilience, and proving that obstacles can be surmounted with determination and support.