KUALA LUMPUR – Whether you’re a seasoned walker or just seeking a delightful outdoor excursion with loved ones, the National Press Club’s (NPC) inaugural walkathon guarantees a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and fitness.
Scheduled to take place on June 2 at the picturesque Padang Merbok in Kuala Lumpur, this event promises a memorable experience for all.
NPC president Datuk Ahirudin Attan said the club hoped the walk would help unite Malaysians from all walks of life.
“Walking together can create a sense of camaraderie among participants, and it is a healthy, low-stress activity.
“Join us for Jom Jalan with NPC, to build relationships and capture memories.
“We have a competitive category as we want to help FTKLAA unearth new talent as there are not many walking competitions in the country,” he said.
There are two main categories: a competitive 10km walk and a 5km fun walk.
The competitive 10km walk will have four sub-categories: open men’s, open women’s, boys, and girls (aged 13 to 17).
The fun walk, meanwhile, is open to all age groups.
Jointly organised by the Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur Athletics Association (FTKLAA), the event aims to promote a healthy lifestyle and unearth new talents, particularly among young walkers.
FTKLAA secretary S. Murugesu said Malaysia has a history of producing walking champions such as G. Saravanan, who won the 50km walk at the 1998 Commonwealth Games. V. Subramaniam won six SEA Games gold medals and five silver medals in the 10km and 20km race walk events between 1977 and 1989.
“He was runner-up in the men’s 20km walk at the 1978 Bangkok Asian Games, a feat that saw him win Sportsman of the Year.
“Annastasia Karen Raj and Yuan Yufang also won medals in the SEA Games. Both also competed at the Olympics.
“However, there has been a lack of walking champions in recent years, and it is hoped that Jom Jalan with NPC will become an annual affair to spot future champions,” he said.
Those interested in Jom Jalan with NPC 2024 can register at raceroster.com or Checkpoint Spot.
Corporations interested in sponsoring or participating in Jom Jalan with NPC 2024 may contact club manager Steven Foo at 019-245-8073. – April 23, 2024