Haji Mohammad bin Haji Jaya achieved a podium finish in the recent Lam Dong Trail 15-kilometre (km) event in Vietnam while his wife Pengiran Mas Norhazilinah binti Pengiran Momin and her siblings, Pengiran Mas Norazlin and Pengiran Mas Wira Shahrol completed the gruelling 75km category.
Haji Mohammad shared that he approaches every race with a positive mindset, treating the experience as the reward and any additional achievements as a bonus. “The podium finish was a pleasant surprise,” he said. “I felt proud when my name was called, representing Brunei.”
Pengiran Mas Norhazilinah described her first trail race in Vietnam as challenging, with muddy, slippery terrains and steep inclines. “I’m grateful to have finished safely within the cut-off time,” she shared. Her sister, Pengiran Mas Norazlin viewed the 75km Dalat Ultra Trail as an opportunity to push her limits.
“The tight cut-off time and challenging terrain tested me, but with support from my husband, family, and friends, I finished alongside my siblings, brother-in-law, and other Brunei runners,” she said. “Every race shapes you as a person – it’s another priceless experience for the books.”
Meanwhile, Pengiran Mas Wira Shahrol completed his 11th trail race at the Lam Dong Trail 75km, praising the event’s scenic route and cool weather.
The siblings are on a journey to achieve the Asia Trail Master Grandmaster title, which requires six certificates within two years. Joining them in this pursuit, Mohd Azrul Muzri bin Haji Adnan secured his sixth certificate in the same race, earning the coveted title. “I am proud to have pushed myself and achieved my goal before the deadline next year,” said Mohd Azrul. Another Bruneian, Khadijah binti Haji Alias, completed the 75km trail, which featured over 3,200 metres of elevation gain across diverse terrains, including trails, paved roads, and steep ascents.
Khadijah shared her gratitude for the race experience, noting the organisers’ efforts in ensuring smooth logistics, clear route markings, and well-prepared checkpoints.
“Although I faced stomach issues midway, I managed to overcome the challenges and finish the race with Allah the Almighty’s blessings and the support of my family and friends,” she said. The Lam Dong Trail highlighted the Bruneians endurance and determination on an international stage, celebrating the spirit of trail running. – Lyna Mohamad
