Local trail runner Shamsuleffandy bin Haji Sulaiman asserted his dominance in the Borneo Ultra Trail Marathon (BUTM) 2024 after winning top place overall in both the nine-kilometre (km) and 30km categories in Kiulu, Sabah recently.
The experienced runner clocked a time of 03:33.03 in the 30km category, nearly nine minutes ahead of his nearest rival Tivel Peter who finished in a time of 03:41.57.
Willy Wilson Jafry completed the podium in third place with a time of 03:42.33.
Shamsuleffandy, who performed under the banner Santai Group, also comfortably won the men’s veteran above 45-years category.
The local runner, who previously sealed a podium finish during The Most Beautiful Thing (TMBT) event last September, also won top place in the 9km event with a time of 0:48.34.
He managed to fend off the challenge of Jacklon Ginin who crossed the line in 0:49.58.
Yasry bin Ismail came third with a time of 0:50.17.
The well-renowned regional trail running competition took runners on a scenic route with participants getting to enjoy walking through a bridge crossing overlooking an expansive river.
Besides the 9km and 30km events, there were also the 50km and 100km categories which are categorised as an ultra distance.
Several Bruneians also participated in the 50km and 100-metre events illustrating their sheer determination, endurance, mental strength and resilience.
The event featured an international field including from hosts Malaysia, American Samoa, Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States and the Philippines. – Fadhil Yunus
