By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 17: The second edition of the Kuching Half Marathon Heritage Run 2025 will flag off next Sunday (July 27) at the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) grounds.
This year’s race has attracted 3,200 participants from 22 countries, including elite runners from Africa and veteran runners as old as 86.
Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the marathon is not just a race but also serves as a unique running experience that highlights Kuching’s historical landmarks, green scenery, cultural identity and iconic murals.
“The objective of this event is to promote a healthy and active lifestyle, attract sports tourism to Sarawak, showcase our heritage, culture and green spaces, and strengthen both community and family bonding,” Abdul Karim said during a press conference, accompanied by the marathon organiser City Joggers Club, at Baitul Makmur II building here today.
With the theme “Embrace the Legacy, Run the Journey”, the run features three race categories: the 21km half marathon, 10km competitive run, and a 5km fun run for leisure participants and families.
Both the 21km and 10km races are certified by the Association of International Marathons (AIMS), ensuring accurate and internationally recognised routes.
Of the total 3,200 registered participants, 77 per cent are from Sarawak, 15 per cent from Peninsular Malaysia, 2 per cent from Sabah, and 6 per cent are international runners from countries including Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kenya, South Korea, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Taiwan, Singapore, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America (USA).
Among the participants is an 86-year-old veteran runner from Ipoh, who served in Sarawak during the 1960s and is returning to run again this year. The oldest local participant is 82 years old.
The presence of six African runners, known for their world-class speed and endurance, has led organisers to introduce a special national category to ensure that local athletes also have a fair chance at the podium.
A timing chip system will be used to track race results, and participants who qualify can win in both the open and national categories.
Participants in the 21km half marathon will begin their race at 4am, while the 10km run will flag off at 6am, followed by the 5km fun run at 6.30am.
A Zumba cooling-down session is scheduled at 7.30am, open to both runners and members of the public.
This will be followed by the prize presentation ceremony at 7.45am and a group photo session at 8.30am, with the entire event expected to conclude by 9am.
All runners will receive an event T-shirt, race bib, e-certificate and finisher’s medal.
For 21km runners, a finisher’s tee will be awarded, and the top 100 finishers will receive a special edition shirt.
A total of RM54,600 in cash prizes will be awarded. Uniquely, the organiser is offering equal prize money for the open and veteran categories, acknowledging the dedication of older athletes.
Race pack collection will take place on July 25 and 26 from 11am to 6pm at The Hills, under Pullman Hotel.
Although registration has closed, Abdul Karim urged the public to take part by showing up as volunteers, supporters or cheerers along the route. – DayakDaily
