Muhammad Firas Re-Engineers Speed for the 50KM Kajang Ultra Marathon 2026
For Muhammad Firas Bin Shahrun Azam, the transition from explosive speed to sustained endurance is a calculated gamble. Primarily known in the local running community for his performances in the 5km to 21km categories, Firas is preparing to swap high-intensity intervals for a seven-hour trial of attrition. At the Kajang Ultra Marathon (KUM) 2026, he faces his longest challenge yet: a 50km journey through the repetitive geometry of Stadium Kajang.
The 50km category, which flags off at 12:30 am on Sunday, 19 April, represents a significant leap for Firas. Having conquered standard road distances from 5km to the full marathon, this event serves as his next logical frontier. “I want to try and challenge myself to run 50 km,” Firas explains. Supported by his family and sponsor, DEVER Malaysia, he enters the race with a dual purpose: to survive the ultra-distance and attempt to break his existing full marathon personal record along the way.
The task is formidable, as participants in the 50km category must complete the distance within a seven-hour cut-off time. For a speed runner accustomed to varied scenery, the 400m stadium loop presents a unique psychological challenge. To bridge this gap across more than 100 laps, Firas relies on strict emotional and physical control. “My plan is to control my pace from the start and avoid being overly aggressive with speed,” he notes. To maintain focus through the early hours, he will use bone-conduction earphones to stay calm and engaged.
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Preparation for the midnight start requires a delicate balancing act with his professional life. Firas is focusing on a significant taper week rather than a total lifestyle overhaul. “I plan to prioritise more rest and sleep during taper week, especially the day before the race,” he says. His training has shifted toward accumulating mileage through easy base runs to build the slow-burn mechanics required for seven hours of continuous movement.
The stadium environment, while mentally taxing, offers a tactical advantage. The proximity of aid stations and the baggage service at Stadium Kajang allows for the fast transitions Firas is known for in shorter races. He views these facilities as a vital safety net for any unexpected situations. Furthermore, the unique race menu featuring local specialties like Satay and Cendol provides both physiological energy and psychological comfort during the tougher hours.
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Nutrition remains the final piece of his 50km logic puzzle. Relying on his partnership with DEVER, Firas has developed a portable fuelling system to maintain rhythm. His strategy involves carrying extra energy gels, salt sticks, and mineral water to ensure he stays ahead of the caloric curve. Beyond the science of gels, however, he knows the finish line will be reached through personal determination.
Located in the heart of Selangor and easily accessible via the Stadium Kajang MRT station, the event practices a strict BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) concept to reduce waste. As Firas prepares for the 12:30 am start, he is no longer just a sprinter; he is an architect of endurance, ready to solve the 100-lap equation one disciplined step at a time.
