THE third session of the “Run for PBIM 2025” training programme was successfully held on Oct 12 (Sunday) at City Stadium, attracting more than 1,000 enthusiastic runners. This event was also held in conjunction with Hari Sukan Negara to promote sports activity.
This session marked a historic milestone as it was the first time the stadium opened its gates for morning training, offering a refreshing experience for the running community and demonstrating Penang’s ongoing commitment to promoting healthy living and vibrant public spaces.
Organised by Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM) in collaboration with Penang Forward Sports Club and supported by the Penang State Exco Office for Tourism and Creative Economy (Petace), the event once again partnered with Aspen, Klippa Shopping Centre, IKEA Batu Kawan, Brooks, and Shokz.
The “Run for PBIM 2025” series consists of four training sessions leading up to the main marathon this December:
- Session 1 (21 June) – Central Park, Aspen Vision City, Batu Kawan
- Session 2 (3 August) – Penang Youth Park
- Session 3 (12 October) – Stadium Bandaraya Pulau Pinang (City Stadium, George Town)
- Session 4 Running Clinic (13 December) – Aspen Vision City, Batu Kawan
Wong Hon Wai, the Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy and chairman of the PBIM organising committee, highlighted how the growing momentum of the Road to PBIM series is helping position Penang as a top-tier sports tourism destination in Southeast Asia.
“This growing enthusiasm reflects the strength of Penang’s active lifestyle culture. We are not only preparing runners for race day — we are weaving sports into the fabric of our tourism narrative,” Wong said in a press statement.
“Each of these pre-race sessions is a chapter in the story of PBIM 2025 — a story that invites repeat visits, diverse exploration, and deeper connections with Penang’s people and places.”
The Road to PBIM 2025 series will conclude with the upcoming Running Clinic at Aspen Vision City, Batu Kawan on Dec 13, offering runners varied terrains, pacing support, and recovery zones — all part of Penang’s commitment to inclusive, well-rounded sports tourism.
PBIM remains one of Penang’s most anticipated annual events, attracting thousands of local and international participants each year. Initiatives like “Run for PBIM” not only prepare runners physically but also build momentum and global visibility for Penang as a premier destination for major sporting events.
“I extend my appreciation to all organisers, volunteers, and participants who contributed to the success of the session. We now look ahead to the final training session and the main PBIM event, both of which continue to reflect Penang’s strength in uniting community wellness with economic and tourism growth,” Wong concluded.
The PBIM registration has recorded more than 22,178 runners, exceeding 21,325 runners in 2024. The number of full marathon runners stands at 4,228 and half marathon runners at 10,034, both showing an increase compared to 2024.
This increase can be attributed to the growing number of 10km runners who are now challenging themselves by advancing to the half-marathon and full marathon categories. Many participants who previously joined the shorter distance events have gained confidence and motivation through continuous training and community support. Their progression reflects not only personal growth but also the effectiveness of PBIM’s training initiatives in nurturing endurance, discipline, and a deeper passion for long-distance running. This encouraging trend demonstrates the evolving maturity of Penang’s running community and reinforces PBIM’s role as a catalyst for promoting active, healthy lifestyles.
Pix courtesy of Penang State Exco Office for Tourism and Creative Economy