Batang Sadong Bridge hybrid marathon set to host over 2,000 physical, virtual runners

KUCHING: Over 1,200 physical runners and another 1,000 virtual runners are expected to take part in the Batang Sadong Bridge Hybrid Marathon, taking place this Dec 10-11.

According to federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, the marathon is meant to celebrate the bridge’s fifth anniversary, adding that the inaugural Batang Sadong Bridge Run in 2016 had attracted international participants.

“The Batang Sadong Bridge Hybrid Marathon is not limited to seasoned runners, as it is for anyone and everyone, with four categories – the 42km full marathon, the 21km half marathon, the 10km route, and the 3km fun run,” the Batang Sadong MP told a press conference at Kuching International Airport VIP lounge on Thursday.

The physical run would be flagged off at SK Sungai Buluh located near the bridge. The virtual run, which is expected to feature more international participants, would go on from Dec 6 to 12. The event is organised by Carus Sport and Event Sdn Bhd, and supported by Nancy’s ministry together with Borneo Trail Classic, which is a Spartan International event. Runners can register via www.batangsadongbridgemarathon.com starting Oct 25 – registration closes on Dec 9.

“We are arranging to include some performance in arts and culture of the surrounding communities. To ensure a wholesome experience, we are also in the midst of discussion with nearby homestays as well as longhouses for the visitors to experience the lifestyles of various races such as the Malays, the Bugis and the Ibans – to name a few,” said Nancy.

She added the event would also be a good opportunity to give runners the confidence to travel to Sarawak again, by putting Sarawak on the world map as a key travel destination.

“Local homestays will be available for the travelling runners. At Batang Sadong Bridge, there is a wide variety of sceneries – the greenery, a fantastic sunset and wildlife including the famous crocodiles of Batang Sadong.”

On the standard operating procedures (SOP) during the event, Nancy said this had yet to be decided as the organiser must first consult with the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC).

Meanwhile, Carus Sport and Event Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Carter Wei said the flag-off for the physical event would be held in between controlled heats, with social distancing in place.

The early bird’s rates for the physical run, applicable from Oct 25 to Nov 15, are RM100, RM90, RM50 and RM40 for the full marathon, the half marathon, the 10km, and the fun run, respectively.

“The standard rate from Nov 16 onwards is RM120, RM100, RM65 and RM50, respectively,” said Wei.

For the virtual run, the early bird’s rate is RM45 for every category excluding postage, while the standard rate of RM55 applies for each category. Each participant, both physical and virtual, is entitled to an event T-shirt and the finisher’s medal.

Cash prizes and finisher’s T-shirts would be given away for the men and women’s 42KM and 21KM categories. Physical runners would also be entitled to goodies bags and participation in the lucky draw.

Also present at the press conference was Nancy’s political secretary Kamaluddin Mohd Effendie.