KOTA KINABALU: Kiulu Adventure Challenge is making a comeback after a six-year hiatus and will feature a new set of disciplines.
Organisers said they hope to attract 1,000 both domestic and international participants.
Adventure sport enthusiasts can choose to participate in a 15km trail running or 30km mountain bike, or take part in the mixed team category of three persons for 30km cycling, 13km running and 3km rafting disciplines.
In addition, a 5km Fun Run has been specially designed for families and casual runners of all ages to enjoy the scenic beauty of Kiulu.
Dubbed the 5th Kiulu Adventure Challenge (KAC), the event is jointly organised by the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) and Kiulu Tourism Association and will take place from Nov 30 to Dec 1 at Kiulu town and RS Kamandus View.
STB chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said they already have about 100 participants.
"We are expecting more participation as the event draws closer," he said at a press conference on Friday (July 19).
He added that the effort will have a spillover effect on Kiulu due to the activities during the two-day programme.
"Kiulu is not just rich in culture but is also teeming with potential for adventure tourism. Our objective is to showcase community activities centred around tourism and inspire our youth to embrace adventure sports," said Bangkuai.
STB chief executive officer Julinus Jimit said that KAC was a rebranded version of the Kiulu 4M Challenge, an extreme sport competition that incorporates the four 'Ms' in Dusun language namely manangkus (running), mamangkar (rafting), manampatau (bamboo body rafting) and mamarampanau (walking in bamboo stilts).
"This event not only promotes adventure tourism but also supports our local economy and engages our community in a meaningful way," he said.
Tickets are available for sale at ticket2u.com and further event updates will be posted on the Kiulu Adventure Challenge Facebook page.
