FLAGOFF THE PENANG ULTRA 2017

Speech by Penang Chief Minister
Flagoff The Penang Ultra 2017
30 September 2017, 9pm at Esplanade

 

Hi, Ultraladies and ultramen. Glad to see everyone here tonight.

This is the ultimate challenge for marathon runners and I am happy that Penang now is an "ultimate" state.

The main objective of this ultra-endurance race is to promote Penang  as a world recognized ultra-running and runner’s state. The Run comprises of 4 categories which are 50km Ultra, 84km Round Island, 100km Relay and 100km Challenge Solo. There are a total of 725 runners for 4 categories and 54 International runners who from 17 countries which is America, British, Brunei, China, Philippines, French, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Netherland, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Taiwan and Thailand.

Penang has the reputation as being the "food paradise" in the region, but Penang is not only a foodie’s haven, it is also leading the country in terms of effectively promoting healthy lifestyle choice for its residents and visitors.

Penang is leading other Malaysian states in promoting cycling and does that by trying to provide good cycling infrastructure. I am glad to know that when we flag off ultra marathon tonight, the 100km and 84km ultra runners will run thru the East Coast Cycling Lanes from Karpal Singh Drive.

The Penang State Government's progress in building the basic infrastructure to provide a safer cycling environment for the cyclists and also runners. A 39.3km bicycle lane with 3 major bridges from Straits Quay to Penang Airport is about to be completed. Right now, public can enjoy the completed 12.5km bicycle lane from Queensbay Mall to Gama Supermarket.

Ladies and gentlemen, Penang ultra marathoners are the real ultraladies and ultramen, specially the 100km challengers will hike up to Penang Hill.

This event is organised by Actife Style Concept, jointly organized by Penang Government and MBPP. Tonight is a culmination of all the hard work put in days and nights by all of them to realise one dream of holding a World Class sport event in Penang and one ambition of making Penang a sporting city of choice in Malaysia.

Have a safe Ultra-Run.