Story by Amanda Khong
Pix by Shum Jian-Wei
THE Ultra 100km Challenge on Sept 27 saw 647 participants from 15 different countries including Malaysia taking part.
The main objective of this ultra-endurance race is to make Penang an international sports city.
This event also promotes healthy living through running while introducing Penang’s world heritage sites as well as the inner beauty of the island.
The event comprised three categories, which is the 50km Ultra, 84km Round Island and 100km Challenge.
Exco member for Youth and Sports, Women, Family and Community Development Chong Eng, who was at the prize presentation and closing ceremony in Esplanade, said “A warm welcome to the Pearl of The Orient! I am pretty sure that you have seen all four corners of Penang as you embarked on your 84km or 100km running route but I do hope you can finally take time to enjoy the food and visit the various tourist hot spots in Penang.”
She also thanked all the sponsors and government agencies and departments for making this event a success.
Chong Eng said in today’s competitive society, we must be able to challenge ourselves physically and mentally to be able to go beyond our limits and this event is perfect for those who strive to challenge themselves.
The 100km Challenge and 84km Round Island course started in the Esplanade, Padang Kota Lama and went through the Unesco World Heritage Site in Georgetown.
Runners then saw the beautiful night view of the The Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Bridge and the Penang Bridge and also passed through the charming fishing villages and farms along the way.
All three routes offered a great rural village experience while taking in lush green hills and durian orchards and enjoying the beauty and fresh air of Penang.
Lastly, the runners went past the coastline of Teluk Bahang, Batu Ferringhi, Gurney Drive and back to the finishing line in Esplanade.
The 100km course took runners to the top of Penang Hill.
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