PANGKALPINANG – An annual international sport event Babel Run was held to commemorate the birthday of Kepulauan Bangka Belitung (Babel) province. Organized by the Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports office (Disparbudkepora), 5162 runners participated in the race.
All runners run in 5 categories: 10 K for male and female athletes, 10 K for under 40, 10 K for upper 40, 10 K for soldiers, policemen/women and state apparatuses, and 5 K for elementary students. They enthusiastically run to win the total prize of Rp207 million despite raining.
The provincial secretary Naziarto and administration assistant Yunan Helmi started the race in zero kilometre of Pangkalpinang on Saturday, 25/11/2023.
The runners, including those coming from outside of the island, just needed a short time to reach the finish line in front of bank BRI. Robi Sianturi, Babel’s national Sea Games athlete became the fastest and first finisher for the male athlete category, Odekta Elvina, the athlete of the national athlete centre from Jakarta was the first finisher for the female athlete category, followed by other categories.
The acting governor of Babel Safrizal ZA handed over the medals and prizes to the winners. He congratulated the winners and encouraged others.
“Congratulations to the winners. For those who loosed this year, race again next year. The prize will be bigger than this year. Keep your spirit!”
The head of sports division of Disparbudkepora Harus said that the success of Babel Run 2023 was due to enthusiasm of public and athletes. The event also introduced some potential athletes expected to bring name for the province.
“Alhamdulillah, thanks to Allah, it was a success, despite raining. There were more runners compared to the last years. We also spot some potential athletes, especially in mid-level distance who can bring a good name for the province in the future both in national or international events,” said Harun.
The twin athlete Eza and Ezi who won the elementary student category expressed their excitement about participating in the race.
“Alhamdulilah. This is the first race for us. The event is a success and we all have fun,” said Eza while gasping for breath after reaching the finish line. (Kris/SAS)
