6th BP Run attracts more than 3,000 people

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Lau (fifth right) about to flag off the run. In the background are some 3,000 runners.

Lau (fifth right) about to flag off the run. In the background are some 3,000 runners.

SIBU: The annual BP Run achieved another milestone when more than 3,000 people participated in the 6th edition of the run held at Sibu Town square yesterday morning.

KTS Group deputy managing director Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau Lee Ming said when the run made its debut in 2011, it only managed to attract some 600 participants.

“Over the years, the number of participants increased tremendously and last year, we had about 2,200 runners. Next year, we are setting a target of at least 3,500 runners,” he said to a loud applause from the runners at the flag-off ceremony.

Others present included Yeo Hiap Seng (Malaysia) Bhd senior manager Joe Wong, Gree Malaysia Sdn Bhd manager Benny Lau and See Hua Marketing assistant manager Kueh Nguang Seng.

Lau said they were actually targeting about 2,500 runners for this year’s edition, and the overwhelming response would go a long way in further motivating the organiser to work even harder for next year’s edition.

‘The growing number of participants every year and the tremendous support rendered by the public have all been heartening.

“I hope you will continue to support the run as it will motivate us to work harder to reach greater heights and to ensure that the Borneo Post Run will be held every year.”

Lau said the 4km Fun Run was introduced in 2014, in addition to the 8km Men’s and Women Open and Boy’s and Girl’s Junior, and the response was encouraging.

“This year, we continue to

have this category which attracted the most number of participants with over 1,500 runners taking part.”

On running, Lau said it is an appealing exercise because it does not cost a lot to take part in it and one can run at any time that suit them.

“It may be the most natural and least expensive way to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.”

Lau said the BP Run was organised as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility aimed at creating awareness of the importance of exercise and healthy lifestyle.

Another purpose, he said, was to promote closer relationship among family members as well as to encourage stronger rapport among members of the community.

He said people from all walks of life, far and near, young and old, from various social and racial backgrounds, were actively taking part and networking with others who share the common interest in running.

“This could also strengthen the social cohesion as well as promote racial harmony among people from different backgrounds.”

Despite the fact that quite a substantial cost and manpower as well as other resources are required to organise the event, Lau said the management, the authorities, the committee and the sponsors are determined to

make the run an event that people in Sibu can look forward to annually.

He expressed gratitude to Sibu Municipal Council and the private sector especially Yeo Hiap Seng (Malaysia) Bhd, Summer Pacific, Gree Malaysia and Kinetic Food for their continued support to make the run possible six years in a row.

Earlier, some 3,000 runners jam-packed the town square to take part in the warming up exercise conducted by Sapphire Fitness Centre.

After the exercise, the runners proceeded to the starting point before Lau flagged off the event.

The fine weather made the run more fun and brought joy and merriment to the runners.