Winners celebrate their victory at NCT Group’s iconic Wyndham Ion Majestic in Genting Highlands.
OVER 100 elite athletes from across Malaysia and international competitors took on the challenge of Malaysia’s first ever highest-altitude tower run at the NCT 6000-ft Tower Running National Championship 2024.
Hosted by NCT Group of Companies, it was held in Genting Highlands, Pahang, at Malaysia’s highest-altitude hotel, Wyndham Ion Majestic, standing at 6,000 feet above sea level.
The event was officially recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records as the “Highest Altitude Tower Run Championship”.
Participants faced the challenge of ascending 50 floors, covering 1,052 steps, and achieving an elevation gain of 168m.
The championship featured three categories to cater to participants of different skill levels and goals.
The Elite category showcased the nation’s top athletes racing against the clock to set the fastest times, while the Performance category focused on enthusiasts eager to test their endurance.
The Leisure category provided an inclusive opportunity for first-time tower-runners and casual participants to experience the excitement of a national-level event.
From the Elite category, Soh Wai Ching, the world champion tower runner from Malaysia, claimed victory in the men’s category with a record-breaking time of five minutes and 48.101 seconds. In the women’s category, Italy’s champion Valentina Belotti secured the top spot with an impressive record time of seven minutes and 29.393 seconds.
The second and third places in the men’s category were clinched by Italy’s Emanuele Manzi and Muhammad Hazim from Malaysia, while the women’s category saw Li Tsz Yau from Hong Kong and China’s Le Qing Hua taking second and third place, respectively.
NCT Group founder and group managing director Datuk Seri Yap Ngan Choy said: “The NCT 6000ft Tower Run exemplifies our dedication to pushing boundaries and creating unparalleled experiences.
“Hosting this record-breaking event at the Wyndham Ion Majestic not only highlights the hotel’s unique stature but also reinforces Genting Highlands as a premier destination for extraordinary endeavours.
“Through innovative projects and strategic partnerships, NCT Group remains committed to driving Malaysia’s tourism growth, elevating hospitality standards, and showcasing the nation’s unique offerings.
“This event stands as a testament to our efforts, positioning Genting Highlands as a key tourism destination on the international map.”
Meanwhile, Soh added to the excitement by sharing top tips with the participating runners during the race kit collection, a day prior to the run.
“It is truly an honour to be part of this event in my home country. Having competed around the world in tower running, participating in an event in Malaysia always holds a special place in my heart,” Soh said.
“Genting Highlands offers a unique setting that perfectly embodies the spirit of this race, and there is no better venue than the nation’s highest-altitude hotel that combines both stunning scenic views with a challenging experience for all participants.
“I would like to thank NCT Group for making their hotel and space accessible for hosting such meaningful events for it is where future champions are born,” added Soh.
