THE Penang Forward Sports Club (PFSC) made history today by hosting Southeast Asia’s first-ever “Xtep Timed Run,” a 10-kilometre race that drew hundreds of runners to the streets of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The event, jointly organised with Chinese sports brand Xtep, marked the company’s first international race outside China. Participants ran against the backdrop of Penang’s rich cultural heritage, creating a vibrant scene across the historic city.

Representing the Chief Minister, state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi said the race was a milestone for Penang.

“This is not only the first time Xtep has brought the race outside China, but also to our world-renowned heritage city. It is both our pride and our honour,” he said after the event held at the Penang Chinese Town Hall (PCTH).

Gooi said that Penang has long been a “breeding ground for champions,” producing world-class athletes, with strong support from the state government and local sports bodies like PFSC.

Penang Chinese Town Hall (PCTH) chairman Tan Sri Tan Khoon Hai thanked Xtep for selecting Penang as the launch venue for its first Southeast Asian timed race, describing the choice as a show of confidence in the state’s sporting potential.

“The event was not just about competition but also cultural and people-to-people exchange,” he said.

PFSC chairman Datuk Lim Choo Hooi said the race was an opportunity to showcase Penang’s beauty through sports, while also launching the Xtep 160X 7.0 running shoe series.

He paid tribute to the organising committee and sponsors, including PCTH, Aim Max Media, the Penang state government, and enforcement agencies for enabling the event to run smoothly in the busy city centre.

He also highlighted the contributions of adviser Datuk Tom Khoo, who sponsored RM50,000 to cover costs and donated 30 pairs of Xtep running shoes as lucky draw prizes.

“Today, we are not just racing for speed, but also running for health, friendship, and confidence,” Lim said.

The race is expected to further strengthen Malaysia-China ties, with organisers expressing hope for more international sporting collaborations in the future.

Chinese Vice Consul General in Penang Ding Xiao expressed her support for the event and was delighted to achieve her personal best.

“I am glad that Xtep brand has come to Malaysia,” she said, while applauding those who were present during the event.

A total of 1,030 runners from all walks of life thronged the event, with some happily walking away with attractive running shoes.

He Yong emerged as champion of the event, clocking 34:29, ahead of runner-up Christopher Soosai (34:44) and third-place finisher Lim Kok Leong (35:10).

Story by Edmund Lee