For most runners, endurance races are a test of physical and mental limits. But for Khairunnisa Alia Binti Muhamad Sauzi (Alia), crossing the finish line at the Pacer Endurance Challenge 2025 as the Women’s Open 3-hour category champion wasn’t just about distance or speed—it was about reclaiming her life.

Every step she took wasn’t just towards victory, but away from a past that once held her captive. A survivor of domestic violence and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Alia has spent years fighting battles far tougher than any racecourse. But through endurance running, she has found freedom, strength, and a new purpose.

From Survival to Strength

Alia’s journey into endurance sports wasn’t planned. It started as a way to heal—both physically and emotionally. Struggling with anxiety and depression, she had spent years on medication and therapy. But it wasn’t until she started running that she discovered something that worked even better.

“Endurance sports teach you how to keep going even when it hurts, even when you don’t want to. The pain, the exhaustion—it’s all temporary. And when you push through it, the feeling at the end is worth it,” she says.

She laughs when she admits that running has become her cheaper alternative to therapy—one that doesn’t come in a prescription bottle but in miles and sweat.

First-Time Endurance, First-Time Victory

Despite being a seasoned half-marathon runner, the Pacer Endurance Challenge 2025 was her first-ever endurance race. She had heard stories from fellow runners about the physical and mental toll of racing against the clock instead of distance, and she wanted to see if she had what it took.

“I wasn’t sure if I could do it. I had never done a race like this before. But after a few loops, I got into the rhythm, and it gave me strength to keep going,” she recalls.

By the 11th loop, exhaustion set in. Her legs ached, and doubt crept in. But instead of giving in, she paused—not to quit, but to gather herself.

“I just took half a minute to rest and asked someone to give me a motivational talk. That was all I needed—to hear something encouraging, to remind myself why I was there. Then, I got back up and kept running.”

Thirteen loops later, she crossed the finish line—not just as a participant, but as the 3-hour Women Open category champion.

A Mother’s Sacrifice, A Champion’s Dedication

Winning races takes dedication and sacrifice, and for Alia, the hardest part is time spent away from her four children—Aqil, Aqif, Aqib, and Ayla.

“My biggest sacrifice is time with them. But they understand, and I dedicate this win to them for always supporting me. Mama loves you all!” she says with pride.

Beyond the finish lines and podiums, she hopes that her children will see her as more than just a runner. She wants them to know that no matter how hard life gets, they have the strength to overcome anything.

Breaking Barriers in Endurance Sports

Despite more women joining endurance sports, Alia knows the challenges they still face.

“Yes, these races are often dominated by men. But endurance isn’t just about physical strength—it’s about mental toughness, resilience, and strategy. And those qualities aren’t defined by gender.”

She believes more women would join endurance events if there were better race incentives and exclusive race venues. She also hopes race organisers will create running clinics for newcomers—especially women—so they can train and prepare with confidence.

“Some people think endurance sports are too gruelling for women, but with the right training, pacing, and mindset, anyone can do it. It’s about understanding your body and pushing your limits at your own pace.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Nyssa_alya (@alyasauzi)

What’s Next?

With her first endurance win under her belt, Alia isn’t slowing down. She is now preparing for her first-ever trail run at the Rinjani 100 Marvellous Trail 2025 in Indonesia, followed by CULTRA 2025.

“My next big goal is to finish strong in my first trail event. Wish me luck!”

For Alia, every race is more than just a competition—it’s a reminder of how far she’s come. And with every step forward, she’s proving that she is not broken. She is not defeated. She is unstoppable.