THE 12th edition of Penang Run, from Esplanade to Pearl Hill and back, has attracted 5,040 participants on July 7.
Of the number, 966 are local participants and 264 are foreign participants. In all, there are 36% female and 64% male participants.
Considered as the biggest race in George Town, the run consists of four categories. They are the 32km Challenge (4.30am flag-off with 5 hours cut-off time), 21km half marathon (5.30am flag-off with 3.5 hours cut-off time), 10km race (6am flag-off with 2 hours cut-off) and 4km Family Fun Run/Walk (6.30am flag-off).
State Youth and Sports Committee chairman Soon Lip Chee said a total of 264 international runners from 34 countries would be taking part.
They are from countries like Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Canada, China, Czech Republic, England, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, South Korea, Myanmar, Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Scotland, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United States, Vietnam and Wales.
“There are 16 participants above 70 years old, with Somsak Kasiwong as the oldest at 84. Hailing from Songkhla, Thailand, he will take part in the 21km half marathon,” Soon told a press conference at Komtar today.
Also present was event organiser Anddrew Loh Lean Hock.
The run is organised by Actife Style Concept Sdn Bhd with the support from Penang government and Penang Island City Council (MBPP).
Loh said the rack pack collection would be held on July 5 and July 6 at Dewan Sri Pinang from 1pm to 5pm.
“There will be a total of RM21,720 in prize money and 155 trophies to be given to the top eight participants.
“We encourage to have a fellowship race and all participants to race gentlemanly with safety first,” he added.
The prize-giving ceremony will be held at 8.45am and the lucky draw at 9.15am.
For further details, contact Loh (017-8789373), Yeap Yuh Jian (019-4777888) or visit www.actifestyle.com
Story by Danny Ooi
Pix by Nur Amirah Husna Roslan