BACK TO NATURE RELAY 2008 - OVERVIEW REPORT

Date : 14 September 2008
Time : 6.45am (reporting time)
Venue : Taman Metropolitan Batu, Off Jalan Ipoh

Powered by : Julie Wong
Surveyor : Eddy Choo
Logistic : Peter Goh, Aplaidoo @ Naidu & Tan Choon Siang

Volunteers -
Philip Lim, Saliah, Sunny, Yong, Danesh Naidu, Mrs. Tan, Balan Acey

Special thanks to -

Der Pacemakers Network - for publicising the event in their blog and supporting the event. This Network consist of a group of positive minded individuals of different creed, ethnic and social status who share ONE common interest - RUNNING.

http://pm1.blogspot.com/

Tey Eng Tiong - for volunteering and rendering his time to be the photograher. A member of Der Pacemakers Network, Tey can be seen in many road races in Malaysia (and out of Malaysia) capturing runners in action. His blog (and photo album) has a wide audience not only in Malaysia but around the globe.

http://pmtey.multiply.com/

The Objective
1. To Promote Friendship & Teamwork
2. To Instill the spirit of True Sportmanship
3. To Provide a platform for amateur & social runners to integrate without barrier
4. To Encourage healthy competition in a fun and healthy environment

PreRace
Last year, the same team organised 5 relays within 3 months (namely in Raub, Kuala Selangor, Taman Metropolitan Kepong, Taman Metropolitan Batu and Taman Bukit Kiara) under the banner of Kuala Lumpur Association of Veteran Athletics (KLAVA). Despite hosting the event during the Puasa (fasting) month, it was well received.

Due to popular demand, the group decided to bring back the event in mid August 2008 under the banner of Road Relay Running Circle (3R Circle). After a brief discussion, we decided on September 14, 2008. Notice was sent via emails and SMSes. Printed notices were also distributed in a few parks in the Klang Valley.

To ensure the smooth running of the event, we limit participation to 30 teams.

Despite closing of the Registration, many still stormed us with phone calls. Not to disappoint them, we 're-open' the Registration for another week. When the figure reached 53 teams, we have no choice but to turn away a few request.

Race Day
As early as 0600 hours, some participants were at the park. Running bibs and time record card were distributed. Tri Latino (the Latin Group) almost lost their way in but fortunately they managed to arrived just on time as the flag off time was delayed by 20 minutes. Participants were briefed on the procedures and rules of the race. They were reminded that safety is of utmost importance as they will be running on a mixed of tarmac and sandy route around the lake.

please log in again for more report and photos)