Interview with Justinas about 104 km in Hong Kong

104 started on Hong Kong Island. Somewhere walking by the sea together with friends. We were looking over the breathtaking views and thinking about what to do for Lithuanian Independence Day. Maybe grab our friends and teach them folk dances? When suddenly Monika says – what if we walk 104 km for each year of independence? And in 24 hours! Is that even possible? We being a crazy bunch instantly agreed to try, we have nothing to lose. Only our knees, but what to us young. Our friends from Nathan from Germany and Cynthia from France also wanted to join which was amazing as it made us think this is not only about Lithuania. It's about the idea of freedom and community. We felt like rebels doing that in Hong Kong, as local protests against China’s tighter grasp on freedom went south. What if we get arrested for talking about freedom where a couple of years ago introduced national security law prohibited freedom of speech? So, we knew this hike was not only about Lithuania. It’s about community and freedom. This wider idea - that’s what pushed us to finish this unordinary hike day.

How did it all start?

What was the best moment and what was the worst?

The worst moment was probably in the last 20 km section. We already did 85 km and walked the past 20 hours. It was 2 AM and we were in the middle of a national park jungle somewhere. When we split up, I was alone just swearing at my stiff legs that were aching in pain. Why am I doing this? Whose idea was this? While in the distance there was a storm brewing wind was picking up and darkness had us enfolded for the last 6 hours. Usually, I am a good boy I do not swear but my motivation was at its lowest, and swearing was the only thing that helped the pain. For a while at least – until I run out of energy to mutter. As I was walking downhill, I saw a grass patch sent from the heavens for me to lay down for a bit. I closed my eyes and relaxed into a blissful nap. After a while Nathan and Monika joined me - woke me up and reminded me of the storm coming. There is nowhere to hide – It is starting to drizzle. I calculated the nearest bus stop is 20km forward at the finish line or 15 km backward. There was no turning back. So, we left our 10 minutes in heaven and started walking. Will we manage in time? – a thought popped into my head. I quickened my step.

For me probably the best moment was in the last moments. We needed a part of the last kilometre and we had only a few minutes left until 6 AM local time or 00:00 in Lithuania. Monika gave me the phone to sprint it out and record it. Sprint, I did, with no clue where the energy came to. Maybe because it was the last thing that needed to be done. And just like that the hike was done. There was screaming, joy, and smiles on our faces when we finally finished. I felt immense love for my companions, supporters, and of course freedom.

What would you tip yourself if you met yourself 2 years ago?

I would tip the reader to do it at least once in life. To feel the power of an idea pushing you forward. But prepare for it both physically and mentally. Do at least a 50-60km hike in a day to know what to expect. And most importantly grab some crazy friends to do it with you so you have somebody to swear at before the end.

If I had been able to meet myself 2 years ago, I would tell myself to eat more - before and after the hike and stretch more – it is very important for recovery, especially knees.

Read other stories