Chow (holding Jalur Gemilang) flagging off participants at Hard Rock Hotel Penang.— Buletin Mutiara
SOME 2,000 enthusiastic runners turned up for the Rock to Rock Run 2023 despite the heavy rain in Batu Ferringhi, Penang.
It featured two categories — Fun Run (3.8km) and Competitive Run (10.2km).
Starting point was at Hard Rock Hotel which has been organising it since 2010.
The Fun Run route took participants to the Penang Tropical Spice Garden, while the Competitive Run route led them to the Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm in Teluk Bahang before returning to the hotel.
Hotel general manager Michael Smeeton said the run aimed to raise awareness and funds to support the local community and improve the lives of the needy.
“Through this event, we want to give back to our local community.
Heavy rain failed to dampen the spirits of some enthusiastic runners who turned up for the Rock to Rock Run 2023.
“Over the years, we have witnessed the incredible impact this event has had on organisations such as Rumah Seri Cahaya, Crystal Family Home, and the Association of Rehab for the Disabled, among others.
“This year, we have set our sights to raise RM50,000 for the Mutiara Food Bank, a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing food to the needy.
“Through this initiative, 280 needy families are expected to benefit from the food supplies that will be channelled from the Mutiara Food Bank,” Smeeton told state publisher Buletin Mutiara.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who flagged off the run, said events like this exemplified the spirit of unity and compassion that characterised Penang.
He said the run was meant to support the Mutiara Food Bank, with Hard Rock Hotel Penang pledging RM50,000 in essential food supplies to 280 households.
“Your participation today directly contributes to the welfare of our fellow Penangites, ensuring that no one is left behind.
“Let us continue to run for a good cause, knowing that our determination and efforts will shape a brighter tomorrow for Penang.
“May your footsteps echo with determination and may your journey inspire others to follow in our path,” he said.
Also present were state youth and sports committee chairman Soon Lip Chee, Penang Island mayor Datuk A. Rajendran and Penang Sports Council director Harry Chai Heng Hua.
