KOTA KINABALU: An international marathon in the rustic hilly tracks of Kiulu kicked off this weekend as Sabah played host to a major sporting event the country transitions into the Covid-19 endemic phase.

       Over 700 running enthusiasts turned up for the two-day Borneo Ultra Trail Marathon (BUTM) at Kiulu, about 60km from the state capital.

       State Tourism, Culture, and Environment Assistant Minister and Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai flagged off the race, which started at 5am for the 100km race and at 7am for the 50km race.

       BUTM attracted 700 Malaysian and international runners between the ages of 10 and 65, with young marathoners permitted to compete in a 9km race.

       One of the first-time participants was Kuala Lumpur-based expatriate Holly Anderson from the United States, who joined the 50km race with two friends from England and Sweden.

       "We have joined a couple of races, but this is our first time joining BUTM and taking part in a race in Sabah.

       "I visited the state in December last year and found Sabah to be an interesting destination. I'm glad to be back and this time, I have the opportunity to explore Kiulu through this race. It's a lovely rural area and the atmosphere is quite peaceful," she said.

       The ultra-trail marathon event also drew a group of 11 running buddies from Penang who signed up for the 50km race.

       For Felix Tan, a first-time marathon runner, it was the encouragement of his friends that spurred him to sign up.

       "We are not just here to race. I've heard about the beautiful scenery of Kiulu and being here, I get to experience the fresh air and nature myself," said the Penangite.

       Joniston, meanwhile, said that Sabah has the potential to be a venue for international sporting race events based on previous events that drew a large number of foreign participants.

       Certain sporting events, he added, can be held in the countryside to benefit local communities and boost rural tourism.

       "For instance, Kiulu is a destination of choice for adventure seekers because it serves as a hub for eco-adventure activities. Kiulu had previously hosted a variety of adventure challenges, including running, mountain biking and traditional sports.

       "With that said, we will look into reviving the Kiulu 4M Challenge," he said.

       The 4M Challenge focuses on the traditional Kadazandusun sporting games, namely 'manangkus' (running), 'mamangkar' (bamboo rafting), 'manampatau' (swimming with the aid of bamboo pole), and 'mamarampanau' (walking on bamboo stilt).

       In the past, the event attracted locals and foreign tourists into Kiulu. It was last held 10 years ago.

       Joniston said promoting traditional sporting games is one way to encourage people to visit rural destinations, allowing them to experience activities of the indigenous people and learn their culture up close.

       With the reopening of the international border soon and the revival of tourism activities, he said Sabah needs to offer unique products and events that pique the interest of foreign tourists.

       The first day of the marathon race saw 345 people competing in two categories on Saturday (March 19).

       The 30km and 9km race categories are set to take place on Sunday (March 20). In the event, marathoners race past Kiulu villages, along the river, and through the forested terrain trails.