ASICS is the official KLSCM 2025 apparel and footwear partner

In my initial toss up guess of the new brand sponsor for the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) 2025, I speculated it was between Puma and Asics, given how strong their marketing and community efforts has been. My money was on Asics (shamelessly biased since I started using their running shoes last year) 

And it is official! 

[TL:DR] KLSCM 2025 Key Highlights

For those in need of cliff notes of KLSCM's announcements today, here you go. 

Fujisan Marathon announces new 2025 race date

After so long, the Fujisan International Marathon has changed its date from the end of November to a new date for 2025. This scenic race, known for its breathtaking autumn views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, attracts runners from around the globe.

However, the new date set for 14 December, Sunday, may result in no autumn leaves and colder temperatures. This might result in the race losing its unique appeal to runners. Supposedly the change in date offers participants a unique winter marathon experience, with potentially cooler temperatures enhancing the running conditions. 

Registration is expected to open in late April 2025, giving enthusiasts plenty of time to prepare for this iconic race. You can read about my experience running the marathon in 2023. 

For more details, visit the official website. 

Experience the Perfect Blend of Speed and Comfort with the ASICS NOVABLAST™ 5 in Malaysia

For Malaysian runners seeking a shoe that combines performance and comfort, ASICS has unveiled the NOVABLAST™ 5—a revolutionary addition to its running footwear lineup. Packed with advanced features, this new release is designed to provide unparalleled speed and bounce, making it the ideal choice for athletes and casual runners alike.

KLSCM 2024: Epic Battle for Full Marathon: Malaysian Category Heats Up

The 16th edition of the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) 2024 is set to be a thrilling spectacle, with elite athletes vying for the prestigious Full Marathon Malaysian Men’s title. Two-time champion Poo Vasanthan faces stiff competition from five-time KLSCM winner Muhaizar Mohamad and last year’s runner-up Nik Fakaruddin, along with rising stars Muhamad Haziq, Vimal Govendarajoo, and Jacob Wong Yize. 

KLSCM 2024: The Best Excuse for a Runcation

I am no stranger to the concept of a runcation. Heck, it's easier telling people you are flying off to Japan yet again for a marathon than it is telling them you are simply just flying off to Japan for the umpteen time for fun. 

For many foreigners outside of Malaysia, the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) is exactly just that runcation for them. 

KLSCM has firmly established itself as the premier distance running event in Malaysia, attracting thousands of runners from all corners of the globe. As we approach the 2024 edition, taking place on the 5th and 6th of October, this celebrated race promises to be bigger and better than ever. With a record-breaking 42,000 participants expected, including local and international athletes, this marathon has become a much-anticipated annual highlight.

Introducing the ASICS GEL-KAYANO™ 31: Experience Stability and Advanced Comfort in Every Step

Are you a runner looking for a shoe that provides stability and comfort throughout your entire run? Then look no further than the ASICS GEL-KAYANO™ 31! This latest iteration of the popular running shoe series is designed to offer an exceptional running experience for runners of all abilities.

Refreshed Upper for Enhanced Comfort and Breathability

Trail Titans Kiara Hill 2024 - 16km course record smashed by Min Xiang Lee

Road running is a challenge of its own but trail running is a different ball game entirely in the cardio game. To be able to smash a 16km course record on trail is an incredible feat and something that Min Xiang Lee achieved at the second Trail Titans Kiara Hill recently.

Xiang Lee finished in 2:07:20, shaving an incredible 10 minutes off the record once held by Ben Hails whose time was 2:17:58 at the inaugural Trail Titans Kiara Hill last year. 32-year-old Xiang Lee, while being an experienced road racer, is relatively new to trail running and made his competitive debut in this event. 

Garmin Forerunner 165 Series Lands In Malaysia; Starts From RM1,290

The Garmin Forerunner 165 and Forerunner 165 Music that were initially launched globally last month have finally arrived in Malaysia. As previously reported, the duo is the Forerunner series’ most affordable fitness smartwatches to date line-up to date, with prices starting from RM1,290.

Available in two models, Forerunner 165 and Forerunner 165 Music, the latest additions to Garmin’s pace-setting lineup of running smartwatches boast easy-to-read full-color displays, responsive touchscreens and a traditional 5-button design. With fast and easy access to everyday health features, advanced training metrics, recovery insights, smart notifications and more, runners can track their progress without sacrificing battery life; both models get up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 19 hours in GPS mode.

Running Fujisan Marathon 2023: Mount Fuji in Autumn

The Fujisan Marathon has always been on my running bucket-list for its amazing views of Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji. As a bonus, it also takes place at the peak of autumn and this means even more amazing views of the autumn leaves, a chillier weather and ample training time throughout the year. 

Also it has one of the coolest medals, second only to my Nagoya's Women Marathon medal, when stacked together makes up Mount Fuji. 

Getting injured and Covid before my Marathon in Japan

Imagine you spent a whole year planning towards a massive race only to be hit by not one but two strings of bad luck - a knee injury followed by Covid all within the two months window of the marathon. 

And every runner knows those are the important parts of the training programme. 

Running 10km at KLSCM 2023 as Pikachu

Each time I ran a race in Japan and was amused by the runners dressed up as a cuddly mascot and such, I used to wonder....what is it like? Well, at the most recent Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon - Boost Juice 10KM, I found out while dressed as Pikachu. 

Right up until 15 minutes before flag off at 615am on 30 Sept 2023, I was still on the fence about wearing it for a whole 10km. But then the girl math kicked in - since I had already bought it for RM120 in Japan, went through the hassle of bringing it home, used it as my charity hook and now, brought it to the race site, why not?

KLSCM 2023 42km and 21km Highlights

The 15th edition of the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) 2023 unfolded with a cascade of records being shattered and unforgettable moments etched into the annals of distance running. Over 40,000 runners flocked to the historic Dataran Merdeka, transforming the weekend into a colossal celebration of running prowess and community spirit.

KLSCM 2023 Kicked off with a Record Breaker

I ran 10km at Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) in a Pikachu onesie but this one guy ran it with a DJ booth. Like what?? As if running 10km itself wasn't hard enough already.

KLSCM 2023: An Epic Showdown for Malaysia's Top Marathon Runners

The Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) 2023 is gearing up to be a thrilling spectacle as Malaysia's elite distance runners prepare to battle for supremacy in the Full Marathon Malaysian category. With over 40,000 participants set to converge on Dataran Merdeka over the weekend of September 30th and October 1st, this iconic event has gained recognition as the only race in Malaysia sanctioned by World Athletics with a coveted Road Race Label. As KLSCM celebrates its 15th edition, the Men's Full Marathon Malaysian category promises a heated competition featuring top-notch athletes.

Unleash Your Inner Trail Titan

Calling all running enthusiasts! If you're seeking a fresh challenge beyond the ordinary, look no further than the Trail Titans event, hosted by Dirigo Events – the brilliant minds behind the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon. The inaugural event kicked off with a bang at Kiara Hills, attracting over 450 spirited trail runners ready to conquer either the 16km or 10km categories. 

Asics New Concept Store Now Open In IOI City Mall Putrajaya

ASICS celebrates the opening of its all-new concept store outlet in IOI City Mall Putrajaya designed to promote a “Sound Mind, Sound Body”. Located on the lower ground floor at the West Court, ASICS IOI City Mall Putrajaya opened its doors recently to welcome the public to check out the new and improved in-store experience. ASICS IOI City Mall Putrajaya is the first ASICS Store in Malaysia to implement this design concept.

15 years of Running with KLSCM 2023

When it comes to running events in Malaysia, the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) is the premier race to look out for. This 2023 heralds the 15th edition of the event when Minister of Youth and Sports, Yang Berhormat Hannah Yeoh officially launched the opening of registrations to the public on 28 April 2023. 

Malaysia’s premier distance running event, which will take place in Dataran Merdeka on 30 September and 1 October, has been awarded the prestigious Road Race Label by governing body World Athletics, making it the first running event in Malaysia and only the fifth in South East Asia to receive this recognition.

KLSCM 2022: Half marathon PB or Instagrammable Photos?

After my sneak peek of the new KLSCM route, I posed a question to my followers - should I gun for a PB or take my time and take photos of the KL scenery. TL:DR - I opted for the latter and achieve the former. 

After an exciting flag off from Dataran Merdeka, I took to the streets of Kuala Lumpur at an unhurried pace to enjoy the ambience of the return of KL's most prestigious running event. Backstreet Boys was playing in my Sudio E2 earbuds and I almost wanted to burst into song, Nine Nine style. Then the first glimpse of KL Tower came into view in Kampung Baru. 

Calling Runners for the Asics World EKIDEN 2022!

ASICS is today inviting teams of up to six runners to sign up to compete in the ASICS World Ekiden 2022, as the race returns for its third successive year.

Taking its inspiration from Japanese running culture, the ASICS World Ekiden challenges teams to complete a marathon distance over the course of six legs of varying distances from 5 - 10km. Teams must pass their digital tasuki - the narrow band of fabric used traditionally in Ekidens - from one leg to the next, working together in the true spirit of Ekiden for the team to succeed.