Most people dip their toes into trail running with a fun run or an easy hike. Ahmad Yusuf Rafaii chose to sprint straight into the deep end. His very first trail race is a grueling 34KM through the technical terrain of the Himalaya Sports Trans Naning Ultra 2025.

“I thought to myself, ‘34KM is just one 5KM after another,’” he said.

Coming from a background in road running and squash, Ahmad is no stranger to endurance or competition. But trail running introduced a different kind of challenge. It is not just about pacing anymore. It is about preparation, mental grit, and navigating unfamiliar terrain.

“There were so many new terms and things I never thought I had to prepare for. The training, the gear, and the strategy. It was a whole new world,” he shared.

Despite the steep learning curve, Ahmad embraced the trail mindset quickly. He asked questions, trained hard, and put his trust in his coach. While others might obsess over watches and data, Ahmad focused on feel and flow.

“I run without a watch sometimes to tune into my effort. So far, it’s worked. My pace keeps improving.”

His training plan includes long runs and hill workouts, building off the strength he developed during his mountain hiking days in university. “Running is just walking faster, right?” he joked with a laugh.

Trail running is known to humble even the toughest athletes, but Ahmad approaches it with calm confidence and curiosity. Even night racing, which unnerves many, doesn’t shake him.

“I try to be light on my feet and keep my ankles strong. Uneven roads are part of my training too.”

When asked what success looks like for this debut, Ahmad is clear about his goal. “I’m aiming to complete it within five hours. Anything faster is a bonus.”

 

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This race is more than just a new challenge. It is a personal breakthrough. A chance to grow, explore, and test himself. Supported by DEVER Malaysia, Ahmad sees this opportunity as something deeply meaningful.

“I’m not going to waste this. I’m going to do my best and achieve my goal.”

And if things get tough mid-race? He’s not afraid to admit what he’s really looking forward to.

“The food stations, definitely. But please, let’s not have my shoe break mid-race!”

Whether he sticks with trails or returns to road running, one thing is clear. Ahmad is here to grow, not just to compete.

“Every race is a race against yourself,” he said. “I just want to be a better me than the one from yesterday.”