LABUAN: The Labuan Ultra Marathon returns to the island on November 12 after a 3-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic with 190 runners starting the event in the 50-kilometre, 22-kilometre and 14-kilometre categories.
The Labuan Ultra Marathon is Malaysia’s second oldest established road ultra marathon running event in Malaysia.
Organised by Avta Sports Sdn Bhd in partnership with Labuan Corporation, Labuan Youth and Sports Department, Palm Beach Resort and Spa, N8 Nutrition and Mercedes Benz, the event will witness runners participating in the 50-kilometre distance who have 12 hours to complete their journey across Labuan with set cut off times along the route in which they must pass while contending with the challenge of the heat but balanced with the beauty of the island’s beaches and roads.
The event will also see the return of 48 elite runners out of 190 runners hoping to gain direct entry into the final of the Borneo Series at the 2024 Mount Kinabalu Ultra Marathon.
According to Administrative and Communications Manager Sharon Mijin, the event is a welcome return to Labuan as the 2020 event was postponed due to the Covid-19 lockdown.
“Labuan is meaningful to us because our second ultra marathon road event began here, and we have always had wonderful experiences and memories of Labuan.
“The island is perfect as a sports tourism destination with the most beautiful beaches, crystal blue waters and a peaceful life that is perfect for extreme sports. We know Labuanites want Labuan Ultra Marathon back and runners are just as excited to travel to Labuan and to participate,” she said.
“It also coincides with the Labuan Remembrance Day event to remember all those who perished in Labuan and Borneo during the Second World War.”
Sharon added that Avta Sports have been in discussions internally and with stakeholders about the possibilities of organising another Labuan Ultra Marathon race in 2024 but with a new extended route and distance.
“The Labuan Ultra Marathon is an iconic race, and we feel we should continue in Labuan as we have received outstanding support from Labuan Corporation, Palm Beach Resort and Spa and N8 nutrition.”
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