Local trail runner Amirul Tuah recently represented Brunei at the Asia Pacific Trailrunning Championship (APTRC) 2024 in Ulsan, South Korea. This participation elevated the Sultanate’s profile in the global trail running scene.
Amirul achieved a personal best, scoring 589 points on the International Trail Running Association (ITRA) performance metric, surpassing his previous high of 567.
Competing under the Brunei Adventure Recreation Association (BARA) with the support of the Youth and Sports Department, Amirul completed a challenging 40-kilometre course. The race exposed him to new perspectives and insights that he plans to share with the growing local trail running community.
“This was a great opportunity to learn from both a participant and organisational perspective,” said Amirul. “It allowed me to benchmark Brunei’s trail running standards against the best in the Asia Pacific.”
To prepare for the APTRC, Amirul underwent a 16-week training programme tailored to the demanding nature of trail racing. The championship course, characterised by sharp stones, loose gravel and steep gradients, required both physical endurance and strategic energy management.
“I followed a nutrition plan that I had practised during training, ensuring I took in enough sodium and carbohydrates,” Amirul explained.
The competition boosted Amirul’s confidence and reshaped his race strategy. He gained valuable insights from other athletes and national team managers, recognising the importance of adapting techniques from professionals.
Looking ahead, Amirul aims to incorporate the knowledge gained from the APTRC into his training regimen and share his experiences with the local trail running community. He hopes to inspire other Bruneian runners and encourage support from relevant agencies.
BARA President Yasmin Patera expressed pride in Amirul’s achievement and dedication. She emphasised the association’s commitment to supporting Brunei’s trail runners and fostering the growth of the sport locally. – Fadhil Yunus
