The world’s most grueling mountain race — Sabah’s “Kinabalu” awaits your challenge

Written/Compiled by Chi Binghui

Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, eastern Malaysia, known as the "Sacred Mountain," stands at 4,095 meters, making it the highest peak in Southeast Asia and one of UNESCO’s World Natural Heritage sites. Its rich natural ecosystem offers a variety of outdoor activities and facilities within Kinabalu Park. This year, the 25th edition of the Mt. Kinabalu International Climbathon 2011, organized by the Sabah Tourism Board, will kick off on October 22 and 23, attracting top mountaineers from around the world to take on the challenge.

This event is hailed as the “world’s most grueling mountain race.” In addition to conquering the highest peak in Southeast Asia, participants must possess exceptional physical fitness to complete the 21-kilometer course within a few hours. They have to endure extreme fatigue and rapid changes in air pressure, which is why the race is included in the International Skyrunning Federation’s World Skyrunning Championships.

Additionally, general tourists can also climb Mount Kinabalu with the assistance of professional guides. Interested mountaineers and tourists can contact Tourism Malaysia (www.promotemalaysia.com.tw) or visit the Sabah Tourism Board website (www.sabahtourism.com/tc/) for more information.

25th Mt. Kinabalu International Climbathon: climbathon.sabahtourism.com/2011/