Tuesday October 12, 2010
A record 900 duathletes expected at Powerman Malaysia 2010
By JADE CHAN
jade@thestar.com.my
Photo by P. NATHAN
IT WILL be a tough, hot and gruelling race for participants of the Powerman Malaysia to be held at Seri Manjung, Perak on Nov 14.
The ninth edition of Powerman Malaysia is expected to attract 900 duathletes from 30 countries, including Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Netherlands and Singapore.
The multi-sport run-bike-run event, sponsored by Malakoff Corporation, offers awards prize money totalling RM100,000 to the winners in 18 categories.
All geared up: (from left) Loong Hin Tong, Shahrom, Nor Juliana and Abdul Rahim are among the duathletes who have signed up for the Powerman Malaysia 2010. Powerman Malaysia is part of the International Powerman Series and is the only Asian qualifier for the annual Powerman World Championships in Zofingen, Switzerland.
Malakoff Corporate Affairs and Communications head Yusop Rashid said Powerman Malaysia was one of the key sporting events in the Perak state calendar.
“We are thrilled at the success of this race, year after year, and expect a record turnout from local and international duathletes this time,” said Yusop.
“It is the company’s belief that sporting activities bring out the best in people by challenging their physical endurance, instilling discipline and fostering unity, regardless of ethnic background or nationality.
“The Malakoff Community Partnerships celebrates the achievement of Malakoff’s long-term and continuous commitment to being a responsible and active participant of our community.
“It focuses on three key areas - community and education, environment, and community sports.”
Malakoff will also be sponsoring a series of talks and workshops prior to Powerman Malaysia 2010 that will be led by one of the world’s top female duathlete Camilla Lindholm.
Among those who will be participating is local duathlete icon Shahrom Abdullah, whose best finish was in 14th place at the Powerman Zofingen in 2004.
Meanwhile, Abdul Rahim Anuar has been competing in Powerman Malaysia since the first race in 2002.
“A duathlon is different from a marathon because you need to condition yourself mentally to do the run-cycle-run routine, as you will get disoriented otherwise.
“Of course, my increasing age makes it more challenging as well,” said the 65-year-old who was placed third in his age category last year.
“My target this year is to complete the race.”
However, Abdul Rahim believes that age is no barrier to participating in such events, and the best part is the bond and friendships that are formed.
Nor Juliana Ali feels there is no difference between male and female participants in events like Powerman Malaysia as both have to train equally hard for the endurance race.
“Duathlons, marathons or even triathlons are different because of the disciplines involved. Hence they all require training, knowledge, discipline and commitment,” she said.
“I represented my school and college in track and field events, with the 1,500m category being my favourite.
“Now, I prefer cycling over running more as it is more fun and allows me to regularly try out different routes.”
The 28-year-old human resource personnel trains six days a week, and treats other races like marathons as part of her build-up training.
Powerman Malaysia comprises Individuals, Malakoff Power Relay and Malakoff Sprint Duathlon. There are 14 categories for the Individual race and two each for the others.
The Individual and Malakoff Power Relay categories cover an 11km run, followed by a 64km bike ride and ending with another 10km run.
The Malakoff Sprint Duathlon covers a 5.5km run, a 32km bike ride, and a 5km run.
All adults aged 20 and above are eligible to join Powerman Malaysia.
For details, visit www.powerman.com.my. Registration deadline is Oct 14.
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