KOTA KINABALU: The first open water swim event in Sabah organised by Kinabalu Pink Ribbon (KPR) last Saturday (Sept 16) was a resounding success with almost all participants completing the 500m, 2.5km and 5km swim courses within the cut-off time.
The event, held at Tanjung Aru Beach, was part of the association’s breast cancer awareness programme to educate the public about early detection, treatment options and moral support available for breast cancer patients and survivors.
The event was flagged off by KPR president Lucilla Pang who was overwhelmed by the tremendous support from participants, their family members and friends, and especially volunteers who had given their time to ensure the event was carried out safely and smoothly.
“Open water swimming is challenging especially for those new to the sport with even experienced swimmers having to face the fear of transitioning from pool to ocean swimming,” says Lucilla adding that the situation is relatable to women who fear seeking treatment and care for their cancer.
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During the event, participants had to swim against the current to their respective turn-around buoy before riding the waves back to shore.
Lucilla hoped, breast cancer patients and survivors can mirror the experience in their own struggle against cancer to continue fighting against the odds and to come out victorious.
Meanwhile, the Penampang Preppies Swim Club led by their coach Benjamin Lee had the biggest number of participants with 9-year-old Lennox Joibi being the youngest swimmer.
He completed the 2.5km course effortlessly and his enthusiasm and fearlessness was matched by many of the other swimmers who took their time to enjoy the experience.
Lim Sat Chu, at 70 years old, was the oldest participant and completed the 500m fun swim to the delight of her supporters.
Three breast cancer survivors, Melissa Lim (5km), Lim Syn Yee (2.5km) and Maggie Lu (500m) were ecstatic when crossing the finish line. They hoped their participation will empower more breast cancer survivors to keep believing in themselves and their strength.
Carlos Chin Yeh Yuh was first out of the water in the 2.5km category while Tristan Carreon Chua took the honour in the 5km category.
Three open water swimmers from Brunei Darussalam were also among the participants.
A total of 21 virtual participants from Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, Terengganu, Sarawak and Sabah took part to show their support by recording their 5km swim in a swimming pool.
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