Take up the Dragon Challenge at 6th Sarawak Adventure Challenge on Oct 23 at Beliong

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Aug 30: Sarawak Adventure Challenge (SAC) returns this year with a “Dragon Challenge” for its sixth edition on Oct 23 at a brand new course in Beliong, Asajaya that will let participants test their limits while enjoying the unique scenery that this river island has to offer.

Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the race themed “Dragon Challenge” this year is a reference to the unique setting of Beliong where a huge iconic Chinese temple sits on the banks of the river overlooking a village with a mixed Malay and Iban community. 

“Beliong is a very unique and exotic place that truly showcases racial harmony as there is a Chinese temple called Beliong Temple in a mixed Malay and Iban village. 

“There are Malay, Chinese and Iban staying in one neighbourhood cluster. You don’t see people there ever have problems but they help each other instead. That’s how tolerant we are and I have always been proud of that area,” he told a press conference on the upcoming SAC.

Apart from Beliong Temple, Abdul Karim, who is the Asajaya assemblyman, pointed out that a big mosque and a Chapel of the Holy Cross, both with historic and cultural values, are also sited within the vicinity. 

With that, he said, sports tourism is a very important aspect of the ministry’s portfolio as it is an excellent vehicle to not only bring people and communities together through sports but also promote Sarawak as a tourism destination filled with natural attractions, spectacular scenery, adventure, culture, heritage and a friendly, welcoming community. 

“The event is an excellent platform to promote the adventure and recreational potential of the State, not only to locals but also tourists.

“This race will highlight the diverse communities, spur the local economy such as the gula apong cottage industry, the trails in lesser-known venues as well as the fascinating attractions within and nearby (Beliong),” he said.

Noting that Beliong can only be accessed by boat, Abdul Karim said the organiser Draco Action Sports will make arrangements to charter boats and provide free coupons for boat rides to enable participants to get into and out of Beliong. 

“In addition, a shuttle service will also be provided between the official hotel and Beliong,” he added. 

Offering cash prizes totalling RM40,000, this year’s race also has a full duathlon encompassing a 12km-running trail and 40km of mountain biking.

“From what I have been informed, the participants are advised not to underestimate the difficulty and challenges that this venue would present. The trails will take participants through local villages, attractions, orchards and plantations with Beliong town where the iconic Chinese temple sits as the start and finish point. 

“As for trail preparations, marking, safety and event marshalling, the local communities are involved and consulted from the start,” Abdul Karim explained. 

Since its inception in 2017 and with the support from the ministry, the SAC aims to promote a new venue through a unique theme to create awareness about Sarawak’s attractions and adventure potential with each location having its special story and stunning attractions. 

The inaugural race in 2017 was staged in Fairy Cave Bau with the theme “The Lost Mines”, followed by 2018 in Singai (“The Sacred Mountain”), 2019 in Lundu (“Mountain to Coast”), 2020 in Serian (“The Jade Cave”), and 2021 in Siniawan (“The Evolution Trail”). 

With this year’s race limited to 400 participants, Abdul Karim also noted that more than 100 challengers have signed up so far.

“Since the first year, this event has grown in popularity and has attracted participants from throughout the region including Brunei, Singapore, Peninsular Malaysia, Indonesia and China. 

“Last year, even when we were still under travel restrictions, the event managed to attract some 300 participants. I am very pleased in fact that all sports tourism events that have been held in Sarawak so far have received positive and encouraging responses,” he added. 

Meanwhile, registration for the SAC 2022—Dragons Challenge with fees priced between RM120 and RM320 is still open until Sept 18 with past participants also eligible for a 25 per cent discount.

Participants who have signed up will be entitled to race entry, SAC 2022 t-shirt, bib numbers, exclusive finisher medal, hydration at transition areas, goodie bags, personal accident insurance, timing chip (to be returned at the end of the race), and free coupons for boat rides. 

For more information, visit www.sarawakchallenge.com, email info@sarawakchallenge.com or follow SAC on Facebook and Instagram. 

The ministry’s permanent secretary Hii Chang King and Draco Action Sports director Chua Juan Chuan were among those present. — DayakDaily