At just 22 years old, Malaysian runner Sanjay Manimaran is a name to watch in Southeast Asian athletics. The defending champion of the 10KM category at the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM) is set to return, with his eyes firmly set on securing another victory and breaking his personal best. But Sanjay’s ambitions stretch far beyond medals and podium finishes; he is on a relentless journey to represent Malaysia at the 2025 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games and make his mark on the international stage.
A Relentless Race Schedule
Competing in over 20 races in the span of just nine months, Sanjay’s dedication is nothing short of extraordinary. His motivation stems from his goal of qualifying for the SEA Games in both the 5000m and 10,000m events. “My main motivation is to represent Malaysia on the international stage and prepare well for the SEA Games 2025,” Sanjay shares.
This year alone, he has claimed first place in 24 out of 27 races and achieved notable finishes in international events. Among these, his debut at the 17th Asian Cross-Country Championship in Hong Kong stands out. Competing against seasoned Olympians and gold medalists, Sanjay finished 14th in the 10,000m category. “It was an incredible experience,” he says. “I’m proud to have represented my country and learned from some of the best in the sport.”
The Formula for Success
What drives Sanjay’s success? He attributes it to a combination of disciplined training, mental resilience, and the guidance of his coach, Jayanthi. “Coach Jayanthi recognised my potential and structured my training to help me progress. She’s strict but supportive, reminding me to stay focused—and even to avoid distractions like relationships,” Sanjay laughs.
This disciplined approach has carried Sanjay through tough moments, including a disappointing performance at SUKMA 2022, where illness hampered his efforts. “Coach Jayanthi has a saying: ‘You need to reclaim your victory at the place you lost it.’ That mindset helped me bounce back and build the resilience needed to compete at this level.”
Training for Excellence
A typical training week for Sanjay starts at 4 a.m. and includes rigorous sessions designed to build both physical fitness and mental toughness. Recovery is just as vital, with a focus on sleep, rest days, and active recovery routines. This balance ensures that he remains in peak condition as he gears up for major events like the SEA Games.
Memorable Races and Future Goals
Among the many races he has competed in, the SCSM 2023 holds a special place in Sanjay’s heart. “Winning the 10KM category at such a prestigious event was a significant milestone. The challenging course and weather conditions pushed me to my limits, but it made the victory even more rewarding.”
Looking ahead, Sanjay is targeting five key races in the coming year, including the Langkawi International Half Marathon and the Penang Bridge International Marathon. However, defending his SCSM title remains his top priority. “My goal is to improve my time and hopefully achieve a new personal best,” he says, aiming to stay under 31:30 for the 10KM run.
Long-Term Aspirations
Sanjay’s vision for the future is as ambitious as his current race schedule. “I want to represent Malaysia at the SEA Games and the Commonwealth Games, setting records that future generations can aim to break,” he explains. Beyond personal achievements, he hopes to inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams.
“Success takes time, hard work, and consistency,” Sanjay advises aspiring runners. “Find your passion, stay disciplined, and choose the right coach to guide you. It’s not about one race but about building a journey over years of dedication.”
A Legacy in the Making
As Sanjay prepares to defend his SCSM crown and work toward his long-term goals, he is poised to become one of Malaysia’s top-performing athletes. With a rigorous training regimen, unwavering determination, and the support of his coach and the National Sports Council, Sanjay is on track to leave an indelible mark on the world of athletics.
