SEMATAN: Debutants across different disciplines enjoyed themselves at the Borneo Triathlon 100, where scenic coastal routes, challenging transitions and first-time nerves made for a memorable experience for participants from Malaysia and Singapore.
Held at Sematan Palm Beach Resort on Sunday (June 21), the event brought together first-time competitors in both aquathlon and sprint triathlon categories, with many describing the experience as enjoyable despite the physical demands of open-water swimming, cycling and running.
Chia Shio Yuan, making her debut in the Kuching race circuit, said she was impressed by the scenic bike route and overall atmosphere of the event.
“Today is fun. My first time in Kuching race and the scenery is good, especially the bike course, a bit windy but a very nice view. Beautiful, good race,” she said.
Asked if she would return, she added with confidence: “Yeah, definitely, I will come back. Thanks, see you next year.”
In the aquathlon category, which featured a 1.5km swim followed by a 10km run, Kuching-based Hafiz Sinang said his first experience in open-water swimming was both challenging and enjoyable.
“This is my first time joining an aquathlon. It was a great experience,” he said.
He admitted the swim was initially intimidating, but said he gradually found his rhythm.
“To be honest, my first time doing an open-water swim, it was a bit scary, but after a while I got used to it. The hardest part was definitely running after swimming,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Hafiz said he enjoyed the overall experience and the opportunity to take part in a new discipline.
Meanwhile, Singapore’s Soh Wei Sheng, who competed in the sprint individual category, not only enjoyed the event but also finished strongly.
“It was very well-organised,” he said, adding that the event was suitable for beginners and encouraged more people to take part in endurance sports.
He said the focus should be on participation and consistency rather than results.
“Whether you are winning or not, it doesn’t matter. It’s just participation, consistency, workout. Stay young and keep trying,” he added.
