We asked elite male trail runners from Asia of their opinion on female trail runners. Do you want to know how they see us, what they admire about us, who they look up to and what message they want to send to us? We asked them for you and here are their answers.
Wong Ho Chung (Hong Kong)
© Photo courtesy from Wong Ho Chung
Describe trail running women in three words. Courageous, confident and charming.
Why do you think it is important to have more women take part in trail running? With the participation of female runners, there is more diversity in the field of trail running, which makes races become even more competitive and fun.
What advantages do you think women have over men in trail running? Comparatively, women are mentally stronger than men. They can be more determined and can bear hardships better in long distance races.
What is your reaction when a woman passes you during a race? I don't have any actual experience yet. But I would be absolutely scared of a female runner passing me. The closest I came to this was during Hong Kong100 in 2018. I was almost passed by Yao Mao from China in the last section of the race - she was undoubtedly one of the fastest female runners I’ve ever met.
Which female trail runner from your country do you see as an inspiration for other trail runners? I have teamed up with Man Yee and Kimmy to join several races. One common belief they share is “Never stop until reaching the finish line”. Their persistence really impressed me a lot!
What message would you like to send to female trail runners? The best view comes after the hardest climbs. Come and join us, you will find out how miraculous the world is!
Kazufumi Ose (Japan)
© Photo courtesy from Kazufumi Ose
Describe trail running women in three words. Strong but also beautiful and gentle.
Why do you think it is important to have more women take part in trail running? In many different sports female athletes show their strength and brilliance. I believe that trail running as a sport would benefit from having more female athletes. It is so amazing to see women play an active part in harsh sports such as trail running.
What advantages do you think women have over men in trail running? Female athletes are smart - they know more about their body than male athletes. There are fewer women who cannot pace themselves well, who overestimate their abilities and who have to stop the race because of weak physical condition.
What is your reaction when a woman passes you during a race? First I am very surprised and then I am even more surprised that the woman keeps on smiling while I am exhausted and can't hide my suffering.
Which female trail runner from your country do you see as an inspiration for other trail runners? I think Kaori Niwa influences many female athletes in Japan. Many athletes respect her and want to run like her.
What message would you like to send to female trail runners? Trail running is not only about the competition, but it is also a very fun sport where you can appreciate the beautiful scenery and discover the culture of different regions and countries. Women, equally as men, can and should participate in and enjoy this tough sport.
Milton Amat (Malaysia)
© Photo courtesy from Milton Amat
Describe trail running women in a few words. Beauty and Power.
Why do you think it is important to have more women take part in trail running? Because women can do it! They have the same capabilities as men. On top of that, it will set a good example for the young generation - it will show that there is no gap between men and women. We are all equal.
What advantages do you think women have over men in trail running? Not only in trail running but in general I realised that women always show consistency and determination no matter what things they are trying to achieve. I also believe that they are more motivated than men.
What is your reaction when a woman passes you during a race? I remember one particular run when Joanna Kruk overtook me and arrived at the finishing line before me! I was impressed and respected her strength!
Which female trail runner from your country do you see as an inspiration for other trail runners? A lot actually! We have superwomen - Lintangas sisters, the humble runner Mailin Ripau and a few more inspirational runners from Peninsular Malaysia.
What message would you like to send to female trail runners? I always want to tell them that they are so inspiring. Keep it up, always run with your heart and enjoy every moment!
John Stingray Onifa (Philippines)
© Photo by TNF100 Hong Kong
Describe trail running women in three words. Very strong, determined, fit.
Why do you think it is important to have more women take part in trail running? Strong women inspire both men and women in the trail running community.
What advantages do you think women have over men in trail running? The advantage of women over men is that women don't surrender easily - they keep on running and fighting until they reach the finish line.
What is your reaction when a woman passes you during a race? Wow amazing, that's impossible! Very strong!!!
Which female trail runner from your country do you see as an inspiration for other trail runners? Majo Liao - she is a top and super hard core trail runner from the Philippines. She inspires many women in my country to take part in trail running.
What message would you like to send to female trail runners? My message to all women is - keep following your dreams. You can make them happen.
Quang Tran (Vietnam)
© Photo by Dalat Ultra Trail
Describe trail running women in three words. Beautiful, courageous with a lot of endurance.
What advantages do you think women have over men in trail running? Women are more resilient, tougher and more determined than men.
What is your reaction when a woman passes you during a race? Just wow, and then I will try to run together as far as possible.
Which female trail runner from your country do you see as an inspiration for other trail runners? Thanh Vu, Trang Tran, Julia Duong Nguyen.
What message would you like to send to female trail runners? Let's show the world that women are beautiful when they are strong, courageous and determined.