7K Charity Run draws 13,000

Kota Kinabalu: Some 13,000 people turned up to support the 12th Sutera Harbour 7K Sunset Charity Run 2012 held at the Sutera Harbour Marina and Country Club, here, Saturday.

The run, which first started in 2000, aims to bring the community of Kota Kinabalu together in the spirit of giving while promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Beginning and ending at the Covered Tennis Court of Sutera Harbour Marina and Country Club, it started off with a warm-up session at 5pm conducted by Zumba Fitness Sabah.

Later, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Masidi Manjun, flagged off the run where thousands of participants of all ages were eager to finish the run within the 77-minute time limit to be eligible for the lucky draw which offered attractive prizes.

A second flag-off was held for special children from the run’s beneficiaries, Sabah Thalassaemia Society and Special Olympics Sabah, who were accompanied by guest-of-honour Masidi, Sutera Harbour Chief Executive Officer Frank Liepmann, members of Bakisa and other invited guests.

The second run flagging-off was conducted by Mayor Datuk Abidin Madingkir.

Those who chose not to participate in the run could also enjoy themselves at the carnival with a wide variety of food and beverage stalls which offered a selection of mouth-watering local and international delicacies as well as special offering from the sponsors.

The crowd was entertained by DJ Myra and DJ Velvet of SuriaFM and treated to special live performances by local artistes such as Rozza Rothman, Ester Clement Tubong, Clarice John Matta, Lydia Kalidin, Calrice Sipanul, Marcel Gatisi, Ryna Tongkooh, Syra Gom, S.Welly, Rey Nizam, Ridah, Nera AF9, Orkes Akiuku, Appy Tots and Aliff Aziz.

Nett profits from the run through registration, coupon sales and sponsorships/donations from the public will be channelled to the two organisations.

Source : Daily Express