Conquering the Clouds: My NCT 6000ft Run-Up Experience

Finally, I reached the 50th floor, greeted by Soh Wai Ching at the finish line. The sense of accomplishment was immense.

The Malaysia Towerrunning National Championship 2024 - NCT 6000ft Run-Up, held on December 15th at the Wyndham Ion Majestic in Genting Highlands, was a truly exhilarating experience. This inaugural event, officially recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records as the "Highest Altitude Tower Run Championship," saw me join over a hundred elite athletes from across Malaysia and internationally.

Can I push myself to summit the 50-storey tower?

Standing at a breathtaking 6,000 feet above sea level, the Wyndham Ion Majestic provided a unique and challenging backdrop for the race. Ascending 50 floors and conquering 1,052 steps, competitors faced the combined hurdles of altitude, cool weather, and the sheer physical demand of the climb.

While the picturesque setting is a draw for tourists, it also presents a challenge for athletes. The elevated altitude may impact endurance, while the cool weather could affect muscle performance and pacing. Competitors must strategically prepare to navigate these physical and environmental hurdles to deliver their best performances.

Unwinding in style at the Wyndham Ion Majestic. This room is pure bliss.

Arrival in Genting Highlands & Race Kit Collection

I arrived the day before the competition from Kuala Lumpur and checked into the hotel around 3:50 PM. The hotel was charming, the air crisp and invigorating. I spent some time on my private balcony, captivated by the breathtaking scenery. You can read about my review of the hotel HERE. 

A cloud ablaze with hues of yellow and orange painted the evening sky. Cloud-gazing at its finest from my cosy room at the Wyndham Ion Majestic.

After settling in, I collected my race kit at the Grand Ballroom on the 50th floor. This venue, recognized as the highest altitude and largest banquet hall in the Malaysia Book of Records, would later serve as the finish line for the race.

The grandeur of the Grand Ballroom is undeniable.

Sharing Session with World Champions

That evening, I attended an exclusive sharing session with Soh Wai Ching, a Malaysian world champion towerrunner, and Valentina Belotti, the world's No. 1 female towerrunner from Italy. Joined by her husband, Emanuele Manzi as an interpreter, they shared valuable insights on training, nutrition, and race strategies.

I was so impressed by how both champions took the time to answer everyone's questions. They covered a wide range of topics, from nutrition to training strategies. It was an incredibly insightful evening, and I learned so much.

Perched at 6,000 feet above sea level, the Wyndham Ion Majestic, Malaysia's highest-altitude hotel, offered a unique and challenging setting for the race. Participants faced the daunting task of ascending 50 floors, conquering 1,052 steps, and achieving an elevation gain of 168 meters. The luxurious hotel, with its breathtaking panoramic views, created an unforgettable backdrop for this historic event.

My stomach started growling after the insightful session. I knew I needed to refuel. So, I made a beeline for the MyNEWS convenience store and loaded up on instant noodles, a tuna onigiri, and a pizza bun. Let's just say I devoured them in record time before hitting the sack.

For many runners, including myself, it's a tradition to lay out your race gear and take a photo. It's a way to visualise the race and build anticipation.

Race Day: A Mix of Excitement and Nervousness

The next morning, I reluctantly woke up (the bed was incredibly comfortable!). After a quick breakfast of coffee and a cream roll, I headed to the Grand Ballroom at 5 AM. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as the elite runners warmed up.

The elites - Among the participants are Soh Wai Ching, the World Champion towerrunner, alongside fellow Malaysian standout Muhammad Hazim Zuhairi Bin Azahari, ranked No. 10 globally. Representing the women’s division are Valentina Belotti, the world’s No. 1 female towerrunner from Italy, and Michele Tan Bee Kiang, Malaysia’s No. 7 globally ranked female competitor. Athletes from 10 countries, including powerhouse nations like Italy, Kenya, and the USA, will converge in Genting Highlands for this premier event

The championship featured three categories: Elite, Performance, and Leisure. I belonged to the Leisure category, thrilled to be "racing" alongside world and national champions like Soh Wai Ching and Muhammad Hazim Zuhairi Bin Azahari.

Witnessing Elite Competition

Before the Leisure category started, we watched the elite runners compete. Live cameras provided a thrilling view of their ascent. As the sun rose over the mountains, casting a golden glow on the Grand Ballroom, everyone captured the stunning scene with their cameras.

Sunrise at 6000ft!

Witnessing the sun rise over the mountains from the Grand Ballroom was an unforgettable experience. Everyone was captivated by the stunning views.

The sunrise at the Grand Ballroom was a truly special moment.

While waiting for our turn to race, we were treated to a breathtaking sunrise at the Grand Ballroom. The glass panels from floor to ceiling offered panoramic views of the mountains, creating a truly magical moment. 

with She Yong from BiiB, the man behind the scenes.

My Leisure Climb

Finally, it was our turn! We ran a short loop before entering the stairwell. I took my time, enjoying the climb at my own pace. There were plenty of steps – 1,052 to be exact! I made sure to hydrate at the water stations, taking a more relaxed approach compared to the elite runners who focused solely on speed.

With each step, I felt the burn. I made a conscious effort to stop at each water station for a much-needed drink. I knew the elite runners wouldn't waste a second, but as a leisure participant, I savoured the refreshment and enjoyed the provided drinks.

Crossing the Finish Line

Reaching the 50th floor felt incredible. Soh Wai Ching was there to greet me, and he presented me with the finishing medal. "I actually did it!" I thought to myself. 

My strategy was simple: finish the race without any injuries. I was a bit concerned about how my older joints and bones would hold up, but I was determined to complete the challenge. I found that my breathing remained steady throughout! 

The post-race refreshments were a perfect ending to the race – a can of ZUS carbonated coffee and a banana were exactly what I needed.

Prize Presentation & Celebrating Victories

I stayed for the prize presentation ceremony. Soh Wai Ching emerged victorious in the men's elite category, while Valentina Belotti claimed the top spot in the women's category. The ceremony also included the Malaysia Book of Records presentation, officially recognizing the NCT 6000ft Tower Run as the "Highest Altitude Tower Run Championship."

From the Elite category, Soh Wai Ching, the world champion tower runner from Malaysia, claimed victory in the men’s category with a record-breaking time of 5 minutes and 48.101 seconds. In the women’s category, Italy’s champion Valentina Belotti secured the top spot with an impressive record time of 7 minutes and 29.393 seconds.

Post-Race Enjoyment

After the excitement, I indulged in a leisurely breakfast at Ambrosia, the hotel's all-day dining restaurant, enjoying the stunning views and the Asian fusion buffet.

I run so I can eat...

The tower run, as expected, was a demanding experience. However, the post-race recovery was a delight. I enjoyed the hotel stay and even attended an Air Supply concert at Resorts World Genting that evening before heading back to Kuala Lumpur.

I'm all out of love, I'm so lost without you....

Acknowledgements: A huge thank you to BiiB, Malaysia Towerrunning Association, and the Wyndham Ion Majestic! I truly enjoyed the experience of participating in the NCT 6000ft Run-Up, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to stay at such a lovely hotel.