KUALA LUMPUR, 18 NOVEMBER 2024 – In a remarkable showcase of diversity and individuality, a dynamic group of Malaysian runners, supported by New Balance Malaysia, participated in the TCS New York City Marathon 2024 – a 42.195-kilometre race held through all five boroughs of New York City. As one of the six World Marathon Majors, this year’s event set a new world record as the largest marathon ever, with 55,646 finishers crossing the line in Central Park.
As part of New Balance’s ‘Run Your Way’ campaign, this initiative embraced the spirit of the marathon by supporting five Malaysian runners, each selected for their individuality and the inspiring stories they brought to the team. The campaign celebrates the uniqueness of every runner, encouraging them to personalise their journey and recognise that if they run, they are a runner. New Balance is committed to changing the narrative around what it means to be a runner, acknowledging each runner’s role within the broader running community.
The participants included Ann Pow, a former SEA Games alumna, and accomplished triathlete, exemplifying how endurance extends beyond individual sports; Adzale Ainuddin, a former rower turned marathon runner showing that competitive spirit spans various physical disciplines; Rachelle Loong, a former national Latin dance champion, whose rhythm and grace propel her through miles; Nik Danial, a Muay Thai fighter who leverages the mental and physical demands of his sport into marathon running; and Nurfitri Najwa (also known as Kak Fit), an influential fitness enthusiast and content creator who inspires a broad audience through her dedication and running journey.
These runners represent a vibrant cross-section of the running community, from seasoned marathoners to enthusiastic newcomers. Ahead of the full marathon, they joined local communities in New York for shakeout runs and pop-up activities, meeting like-minded individuals and warming up in an exciting new setting. This experience allowed them to share stories, gain insights, and find inspiration, truly embodying New Balance’s message that running is a personal journey defined by individual goals and passions, beyond comparison or competition.
Despite the cold weather, which presented a major challenge, the Malaysian group showed incredible resilience, adapting and powering through the marathon. Their participation truly captured the inclusive and empowering spirit of the ‘Run Your Way’ philosophy, whether they were braving the chill, setting personal marathon records, or simply embracing the journey.
As these runners have returned home from New York, their stories of determination, joy, and personal achievement continue to resonate far beyond the finish line. New Balance Malaysia stands proud of the runners’ accomplishments and remains committed to supporting all runners in embracing their unique journeys through every challenge and triumph the road offers.