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Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration at the Starting Ceremony for the "Trailwalker '98" today (Friday):

Mr Ian Anderson, all Trailwalkers,

Since I am neither brave enough nor fit enough to participate in this trailwalk, at least I can do is to officiate at the start of this ceremony. As Mr Anderson said this is a significant event in Hong Kong's calendar, and I want to thank you all for facing this challenge of walking 100 kilometres within 48 hours. It is quite a challenge both in terms of your physical fitness, endurance, and your team spirit. And I wish all teams every success. I want to thank the organising committee, the sponsors, particularly Hong Kong Bank, particularly the participants for making this event possible and successful. And I wish you all happy trailwalking. Thank you.

End/Friday, November 13, 1998

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