MIRI: Six blind individuals and a polio patient will participate in the much anticipated Miri Charity Run this April 12.
Event organising chairman, Ken Lai said the seven would take part in the 3.5km Fun Run.
“The polio patient may need special assistance during the run, while the six blind will be guided throughout the route. We are confident that they will finish the race.
“The polio patient has been training hard over the past one month,” he said in a press statement.
Lai said Sarawak Society for The Blind (Miri Branch) and Miri Hospital director Dr Jack Wong encouraged the seven to join the race.
Meanwhile, Bulatan Park Runners Club president Tang Swee Ming said the starting time for the seven would be specially ‘delayed’ to prevent untoward incidents.
“They will be leading by example to show to the society that even the blind and those with polio can run a ‘mini marathon’. It is our responsibility to ensure their safety,” he said.
Yesterday, Tang, who received three hampers and cash vouchers from Sky Bird’s Nest for the lucky draw, disclosed that over 1,100 people were expected to turn up for the event, which would be held at Marina Commercial Centre.
“Even though registration closed on March 8, we continue to receive calls from interested runners.
“We closed the registration early because we need time to process the registration and matters pertaining to the medals at least three weeks in advance.”