The third edition of the Bintulu Marathon is set to blaze through Borneo’s heartland on Aug 3 with organisers targeting a record-breaking turnout.

With RM100,000 in prize money up for grabs, Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) expects to exceed last year’s impressive turnout of 5,800 runners from 19 countries, which had already shown significant growth from the inaugural 3,535 participants in 2023.

“Our ambition is to transform the Bintulu Marathon into one of the most attractive races—not just in Malaysia, but on the international stage. We’re working towards earning World Athletics recognition and attracting marquee names in the sport, and the 2025 edition is a key step in that journey,” said Race Director Awangku Mohd Sharifuddin Awangku Ahmad.

The marathon’s rapidly growing prestige has attracted elite international talent, particularly from the African continent.

Kenyan runners have dominated the podium in previous editions, with Geoffrey Birgen clinching the inaugural title in a blistering 2:18:05, followed by his compatriot Denis Mugendi Kiura, who powered to victory in 2024 with an impressive 2:23:07.

Top Malaysian marathon runners including Muhaizar Mohamed, Poo Vasanthan Subramaniam, Ahmad Luth Hamizan, and Haziq Hamzah have also graced the event in previous years.

The 2025 edition will feature four race categories: the full marathon (42.195km with a 7-hour cut-off time), half marathon (21.1km with a 4-hour cut-off), 10km middle-distance run (2 hours 15 minutes cut-off), and 6km fun run (1 hour 30 minutes cut-off).

Competitors will vie for honours across Open (18-39 years) and Veteran (40+ years) categories, with top Open champions receiving RM7,000 each for men and women, while Veteran winners claim RM3,000 prizes.

The prize money will be distributed to all top 10 finishers in each category.

Additionally, the first-placed national men and women finishers in the Open categories will receive a RM2,000 cash bonus, on top of what they earn should they finish in the top 10.

Beyond the competition, the event has evolved into a cultural festival that showcases Sarawakian hospitality at its finest. Local food vendors, cultural performances, and a vibrant race village will create an immersive experience for participants and spectators alike.

“We’re not just organising a marathon; we’re creating memories that last a lifetime,” explained Awangku Mohd Shahrifuddin.

“From the moment runners collect their race packs to the final celebration at the finish line, every element is designed to showcase the warmth and uniqueness of Bintulu.”

For more information or to register, please visit: https://www.heyjom.com/event/Bintulu-Marathon-2025 or https://cps4.me/bintulu-marathon-2025.