HEAVY rain did not dampen the spirit of some 2,000 enthusiastic runners from turning up for the Rock to Rock Run 2023 (RTRR 2023) this morning.
RTRR 2023, organised by the Hard Rock Hotel Penang, has been a yearly tradition since 2010.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was the guest of honour at the event, joined the flagging-off ceremony in front of Hard Rock Hotel Penang at 7am alongside state Youth and Sports Committee chairman Soon Lip Chee, Penang Island City Council mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP) director Harry Chai Heng Hua and the hotel’s general manager Michael Smeeton.
The event featured two categories, namely the Fun Run, covering a distance of 3.8km and the Competitive Run, covering 10.2km.
Both runs started from the hotel in Batu Ferringhi. The Fun Run route took the participants to the Penang Tropical Spice Garden, while the Competitive Run route led them to the Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm in Teluk Bahang before returning to the hotel.
Smeeton said the run aimed to raise awareness and funds to support the local community and improve the lives of the needy.
“Through this event, we want to give back to our local community. Over the years, we have witnessed the incredible impact this event has had on organisations such as Rumah Seri Cahaya, Crystal Family Home, Association of Rehab of the Disabled and others.
“And today, we continue this legacy of compassion and generosity.
“This year, we have set our sights to raise RM50,000 for the Mutiara Food Bank, a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing food distribution to the needy.
“Through this initiative, a total of 280 needy families are expected to benefit from the food supplies that will be channelled from the Mutiara Food Bank,” Smeeton said in his speech before the flagging-off ceremony.
Chow commended events like this for exemplifying the spirit of unity and compassion that characterises Penang.
“Rock to Rock Run embodies what it means to come together for a common cause, showing the world that Penang is a place where kindness and love thrive.
“Since 2010, Rock to Rock Run has benefited numerous non-profit organisations, transforming lives and giving hope to those in need.
“Your presence here today is a testament to the power of community engagement, and I applaud each and every one of you for your efforts,” he said.
Chow added that this year also, RTRR 2023 supports the Mutiara Food Bank with Hard Rock Hotel Penang pledging RM50,000 in essential food supplies to 280 households.
“Thus, your participation today directly contributes to the welfare of our fellow Penangites, ensuring that no one is left behind.
“Let us continue to run for a good cause, knowing that our determination and efforts will shape a brighter tomorrow for Penang.
“May your footsteps echo with determination and your journey inspire others to follow in our path,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat