My first X-Trail: One word – FUN!

Early morning drizzle and heavy rain did not dampen the enthusiasm of trail running fans today on 10 November 2013. In fact, the wet and slippery conditions of trail provided the challenges trail runners have been anticipating for, in the 4th edition of the Malaysian Salomon X-Trail Run, with a brand new route located at Malaysia Agriculture Research and Development Institute (Mardi). Approximately 2,500 runners gathered as early as 6am to experience the new trail mapped out. This year, 70% of the overall 10km predominantly focused on trail running.

After flagging off from the starting line at 7am, runners were faced with an uphill and challenging climb. It was a true test of traction, stability and comfort for participants throughout the whole entire experience.

Check out the official video at the end of the article!

It was my first trail run, and the organizer promised a challenging enough route for veterans and beginners, and so it was.

I for one expected nothing, as it is my first time running a trail.
Unfortunately, it is a tad shorter than as advertise – it was only 7km. 6.8km to be precise, according to participants’ smart phone run trackers.

The most challenging part of the run would be a stretch of uphill, where it left most runners walk, rather than run.
And the downhill can be quite exciting, if you reserve energy on uphill part.

Despite the early morning rain, the track condition was just nice, with first 1.5km and last 1.5km being on tar. Most participants were able to complete it within an hour, and it left most of us asking for more. I know I do.

There is nothing bad to say about the organizer except that they have a job well done. Pacesetter is one of the most experienced running events organizers in the country.

All in all, it is a great introduction for beginners. I suppose it will be more challenging if it is 10km or 15km run.

The following were 4 categories competed and their respective winners:

• Men’s Open (Age 18 & above) – En Muhamad Affindi, clocked in after 28:46minutes
• Men’s Veteran (Age 41 & above) – Mr Casey Lim, clocked in after 29:19minutes
• Women’s Open (Age 18 & above) – Ms Kimberley Yap, clocked in after 31:31minutes
• Women’s Veteran (Age 36 & above) – Ms Lim Hooi Kheong, clocked in after 36:09minutes

The top three winners in all categories were presented with Trophies and Salomon products worth RM1,000, RM800, RM600 respectively and also prizes from other sponsors as well. The sponsors for this event were World of Sports Malaysia, Salomon, Suunto, Bootcamp Malaysia, Perskindol and Revive.

For those who missed it, don’t feel bad. The event expected 2,500 participants, but registration was closed even before the press conference was held. So next year, you might want to snatch your spot as soon as it gets announced.

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