Kuching Half Marathon Heritage Run: A Celebration of Health, Fitness, and Heritage
Kuching, Sarawak – The Kuching Half Marathon Heritage Run (KHMHR) saw a massive turnout of runners, including a strong contingent from the popular local running group, the Runfluencer Gang. The event, held on July 28th, showcased Kuching’s vibrant spirit and commitment to health and fitness.
Thousands Join the Race
Thousands of participants from 13 countries took to the streets of Kuching to compete in the 21km, 10km, and 5km categories. The Runfluencer Gang, known for its energetic and supportive community, added to the lively atmosphere of the race.
Highlighting Kuching’s Heritage
The event was not only a sporting event but also a platform to highlight Kuching’s rich heritage and cultural diversity. Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng expressed his delight at the successful inaugural run, emphasizing its potential to boost tourism and promote a healthy lifestyle.
Kenyan Dominance in Open Categories
Kenyan runners dominated the open categories, but the event also celebrated the spirit of participation and camaraderie among runners of all levels.
Men’s Open Category
In the men’s category, Jephet Rono outran his fellow countryman Emmanuel Kipronoh by one second to win the race, clocking in at one hour, 16 minutes, and 53 seconds. Rono collected the prize money of RM1,500 and a trophy, while Kipronoh received RM1,200 and a trophy for his second-place finish. Malaysian Haarullah Safri claimed third place, earning RM1,000 and a trophy.
Women’s Open Category
In the women’s category, Chepngetich Langat won the race in one hour, 29 minutes, and 47 seconds, collecting a prize of RM1,500 and a trophy. Her fellow runner, Caroline Cherono, came second, receiving RM1,200 and a trophy. Malaysian Tho Siaw Kim secured third place, earning RM1,000 and a trophy.
Prize Presentation
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng presented the prizes to the winners of the two categories. When interviewed, Wee expressed his delight with the inaugural event that registered 3,500 participants from 13 countries.
Creative Tourism and Healthy Living
Wee pointed out that the KHMHR 2024 event is a form of creative tourism that attracts foreigners. “We hope this is a starting point for the City Joggers Club (CJC) Kuching to continue making KHMHR an annual event. Of course, we will appeal to the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performance Arts Sarawak (MTCP) to support them (CJC),” he said.
Promoting a Healthy City Concept
“KHMHR is raising awareness about a healthy city concept. People are spending their time participating in the event not just to compete but to become healthier. The participants all became friends. Continue this spirit and unite our Sarawakians together. I am sure we will achieve the vision our leaders wish to have in 2030,” he added.
Event Details and Dignitaries Present
The half marathon started at 4 am and finished at 7 am. MTCP Deputy Permanent Secretary Desmond Douglas Jerukan, MTCP Principal Assistant Secretary Dr. Elena Gregoria Chai Chin Fern, MBKS Deputy Mayor Dato Zaiedi Suhaili, and KHMHR 2024 Advisors and Director Chan Boon Teck were also present.