Marathon route promises an exciting and challenging Race

Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 Showcases Iconic Landmarks of Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur – With the thousands of feet that will be pounding the streets of Kuala Lumpur for the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 on Sunday, June 28, 2009, you will wish you had worn your running shoes too!

The city of Kuala Lumpur will play host to the inaugural Standard Chartered KL Marathon, which is the ninth in a series of Standard Chartered marathons around the world.

According to Hemant Dua, Director Octagon SEA & India, also the Marathon Race Director, “The route has been designed to appeal to runners of all levels, from beginners to professionals. It will largely be flat terrain with small elevations, particularly around the 4KM mark and also along the 36KM mark (Jalan Damansara stretch) to make it an exciting and challenging run for all.”

Mr. Dua said “The route of the marathon has been measured according to the competition rules of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS). This measurement exercise was recently carried by IAAF certified measurer, Mr. S. Murugesu. The measurement was done using the calibrated bicycle method, which entails a counter attached to a bicycle to obtain an accurate distance of 42.195km.” The calibration ensures that factors such as the measurer’s body weight, cycle air tyre pressure and meter errors are taken into consideration.

Octagon’s goal is to establish the Standard Chartered KL Marathon as the best in the region and to ultimately achieve the Silver and Gold recognition from IAAF within the next 5 years. To ensure absolute accuracy, only IAAF qualified courses measurers are eligible to measure world-class and recognized marathon routes. “All efforts are being carried out on our part to ensure that this is an internationally certified route,” Mr. Dua added.

The Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 offers runners a truly unique opportunity to take in the sights of the city. Starting at Dataran Merdeka, the site of Malaysia’s independence, the marathon route weaves its way through the streets of Kuala Lumpur and showcases some of the most beautiful and historical landmarks in the city. These include the National Palace, the world renowned Petronas Twin Towers, the National Museum and the lush Lake Gardens. This route also showcases the cultural diversity of Malaysia as it passes through pockets of different communities.

It also gives an opportunity for elite athletes and recreational runners to participate in the same event. In line with its theme “Run Your Race”, you can choose your preferred category from a range comprising the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10KM, Fun Run (5KM), and the Kids Dash in two different age groups - 6 to 9 years old & 10 to 12 years old. So there’s something for everyone!

Non-participants are welcomed as spectators and cheerleaders to offer encouragement and support to runners along the 42.195km route. Come and soak in the festive atmosphere as the excitement of the race escalates and enjoy the many entertaining activities available on the day. Spectators can also share in the runner’s excitement and jubilation as they cross the Finishing Line, exhausted and exalted by their great personal achievement!.

Need another reason to join the marathon? The Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 offers a tantalizing prize money totalling RM 350,000 for the winners with a guaranteed prize pool for Malaysians. It also gives recreational runners, families and children a chance to compete in variety of different categories.

So come on down, or up, depending on where you are, to Kuala Lumpur this 28 June 2009 to be a part of the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009. Take in the sights, compete in an international sporting event and return home high on endorphins, refreshed and rejuvenated.

Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 route on YouTube. Here’s the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFj-W9UF534&feature=channel_page