Walkathon to unite and spot new talents on June 2
Excitement is building up for the National Press Club Malaysia’s “Jom Jalan with NPC 2024”.

Whether you are a seasoned walker or just looking for a pleasant way to spend a day outdoors with family and friends, the “Jom Jalan with NPC 2024” promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, friendship and fun.

The inaugural event is to be held at Padang Merbok in Kuala Lumpur on June 2.

There are two main categories – a competitive 10km walk and a leisurely 5km fun walk for those wanting to take it easy on a Sunday morning.

The competitive 10km walk will have four sub-categories – Men’s Open, Women’s Open, Boys’ and Girls’ (aged 13 to 17) while the fun walk is open to all age groups.

The event is jointly organised with Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur Athletics Association (FTKLAA).

The walk is held to provide an avenue for people to cultivate a healthy lifestyle while also unearthing new talents to enter the realm of competitive walking.

In addition to the walk, there are exciting activities to keep the fun going such as yoga and Zumba sessions as well as refreshments to keep participants energised and hydrated.

NPC president Datuk Ahirudin Attan said the club hoped the walk would help unite Malaysians.

“Walking together can create a sense of camaraderie among participants, and it is a healthy, low-stress activity,” said Ahirudin.

“Join us to build relationships and capture memories.

“We have a competitive category as we want to help FTKLAA unearth new talent as there are not many walking competitions in the country.”

FTKLAA secretary S. Murugesu said Malaysia had a history of producing walking champions such as G. Saravanan, who won the 50km walk at the 1998 Commonwealth Games.

Another walker, V. Subramaniam won six SEA Games gold medals and five silver medals in the 10km and 20km race walk events between 1977 and 1989.

He was runner-up in the Men’s 20km walk at the 1978 Bangkok Asian Games, a feat which saw him winning Sportsman of the Year.

Murugesu said Annastasia Karen Raj and Yuan Yufang also won medals in the SEA Games. Both competed at the Olympics too.

However, there has been a lack of walking champions in recent years, and the NPC hopes that “Jom Jalan with NPC” becomes an annual affair to spot future champions.

Those interested in the event can register by May 10 at https://raceroster.com/events/2024/87634/jom-jalan-with-npc-2024

Alternatively, register at https://v2.checkpointspot.asia/event/npc-walk-2024.

For corporations interested in becoming sponsors or be part of the event, call club manager Steven Foo at 019-245 8073. – By CY LEE
National Press Club,Walking event,competitive walking. FTKLAA,athletics
Excitement is building up for the National Press Club Malaysia’s “Jom Jalan with NPC 2024”.