Race previews Aspen-Klippa Penang Bridge International Marathon

01 July 2016, 7am

Distance Running 2016 Edition 3 > Race previews > Penang Bridge International Marathon

Run on the iconic bridge that connects Penang Island to the mainland, Penang Bridge International Marathon is the largest mass-participation sporting event in Penang, bringing tens of thousands of runners out onto the streets.

Penang Bridge International Marathon

ASICS Penang Bridge International Marathon
Sun 27 November 2016

Penang, the second largest city in Malaysia, is home to the popular Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM). The race is organized by Penang State Tourism Development office and fully supported by the Penang State Government. First held in 1986 the marathon is run on the iconic bridge that connects Penang Island to Penang Mainland. PBIM is the largest mass-participation sporting event in Penang, bringing tens of thousands of runners out onto the streets.

In 2014 the race attracted 60,000 runners. This unprecedented entry arose because it was held on the newly-opened “Second Penang Bridge” — the 24km-long Sultan Abdul Halim Muad’zam Shah Bridge – the longest in South-East Asia.

Penang Bridge Run was organized twice in 2015 — the inaugural Penang Bridge Half Marathon on 14 June, on the second Penang Bridge, in conjunction with the first ever AIMS Asia-Pacific Conference.

The annual ASICS Penang Bridge International Marathon (APBIM) was held on 22 November on the iconic Penang Bridge. Prior to the marathon running clinics and a medical forum were held to help minimise the risk of injury and accidents. Experienced dieticians, physiotherapists and a medical doctor provided advice at the forum and guided runners through the various dos and don’ts.

On race day runners are taken through a warm-up and treated to a fireworks display before the start to boost their spirit. The Chief Minister of Penang, The Right Honorable Mr Lim Guan Eng sent the runners on their way accompanied by the Chairman of Penang Bridge International Marathon Committee, YB Danny Law Heng Kiang.

The run was held in the morning to minimise disruption to normal traffic flow over the bridge. Temperatures can reach over 30C — a temperature dangerous for distance running but ameliorated on the bridge by the sea breezes.

Organisers rely heavily on government agencies to ensure the safety and comfort of runners. The Royal Malaysian Police Force, medical officers of Penang Hospital, Red Crescent, St John Ambulance and other agencies are stationed along the entire route to ensure that any runner in distress can receive prompt medical assistance. Water stations are set up along the bridge — and even Prayer Rooms.

Trophies, finisher medals and certificates are given out to those who complete the race. PBIM is popular for its fun, carnival-like atmosphere, showcasing the colours, sights and tastes of Penang. We look forward welcoming runners back to the next edition on 20 November.

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