AFTER a two-year lapse due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the long-awaited Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM) is now back on Dec 11 this year.
As announced by state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin on Monday, the annually held event is set to attract about 25,000 runners.
After a series of virtual runs that took place during the pandemic, the state is scheduled to see PBIM’s first physical marathon.
Tourism stakeholders, runners, and an authorised dealer for Brooks’ running shoes have lauded the announcement after a long wait.
They are delighted, while some runners are eagerly waiting to get back to a competitive run.
According to Penang Forward Sports Club (PFSC) chairman Lim Choo Hooi, many runners are now looking forward to the physical event.
“We welcome the bridge run. I believe everyone is now anticipating the event.
“In some other countries, they have already resumed their physical running competitions and everything has been going on smoothly.
“I believe there won’t be any major problem if we adhere to the standard operating procedures (SOPs),” he said.
Lim also encouraged everyone to participate in the bridge run to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Brooks’ running shoes authorised dealer Tommy Ooi was also keen to participate in the full marathon category.
“I have been running for the past PBIM and I am raring to run again at year-end.
“When we run casually, we do not have to face any challenge like in the competitive run.
“My wife and I are both looking forward to PBIM,” he said.
Ooi, who operates his Eng Hoe & Co shop in Komtar, expects his business to gradually recover.
“I believe that many runners will drop by to get their running shoes for training before the competition.
“It is gradually returning to normalcy,” he added.
Malaysian Association of Hotel (MAH) Penang chapter chairman Tony Goh pointed out that the event would be a good kick-start for the tourism and hospitality industry.
“We expect the occupancy rate to reach about 70 to 80% at the end of the year.
“Currently, the hotel industry is slowly recovering and awaiting time to gradually back to its peak.
“Overall, the event will surely attract an influx of domestic and international tourists as well,” he said.
Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (ATAP) chairman Ch’ng Huck Theng said PBIM would have a positive impact on the tourism outlook.
“It will stimulate the tourism industry and we are eager for it.
“Travelers will visit the country when the necessary SOPs are being practised,” he said.
Those keen to join may visit http://www.penangmarathon.gov.my/portal/ for more details.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix courtesy of interviewees