In a heartening display of inclusivity and empowerment, New Balance Malaysia recently made waves by backing three outstanding Malaysian female runners to participate in the esteemed Nagoya Women’s Marathon 2024. Held on 10th March 2024, a date coinciding with International Women’s Day, this event marked a pivotal moment not just for these athletes but for the broader running community as well.
Esther Joy Chen, Ann Pow, and Nur Fitri Najwa, affectionately known as Kak Fit, proudly represented New Balance Malaysia, embodying the essence of the brand’s ‘RUN YOUR WAY’ campaign. This campaign resonates deeply with runners worldwide, promoting the idea that regardless of pace, distance, or motivation, every runner is a valued member of the community.
The Nagoya Women’s Marathon, a prestigious event with World Athletics Platinum road race status, provided the perfect platform for these remarkable women to showcase their talent and dedication. Esther Joy Chen, a former SEA Games athlete, demonstrated her prowess by securing 8th place and completing her debut half marathon in under 1:25 hours. Her achievement solidifies her position as a force to be reckoned with in the running world.
Ann Pow, another SEA Games alumna, surpassed expectations by finishing the full marathon in under 3:20 hours, surpassing her personal best and leaving an indelible mark on her running journey. Kak Fit, a renowned running influencer, braved the cold weather to finish the half marathon in under 2 hours, inspiring her followers and fellow runners with her resilience and passion.
Beyond their individual accomplishments, the journey to the Nagoya Women’s Marathon was filled with enriching experiences. The trio had the privilege of meeting New Balance Athletes and Olympians, Camille French and Nozomi Tanaka, for an inspirational sharing session. They also connected with fellow runners from around the globe, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.
One memorable highlight of the trip was the communal shakeout run on the eve of the race. This gathering not only served as a physical warm-up but also provided an opportunity to forge meaningful connections with like-minded individuals, further enhancing the sense of anticipation for the upcoming challenge.
New Balance Malaysia’s participation in the Nagoya Women’s Marathon underscores its unwavering commitment to championing local talent on the global stage. By embracing the ethos of ‘RUN YOUR WAY,’ the brand not only celebrates the diverse motivations behind running but also shapes its future endeavours in product development, brand experience, and community engagement.
As a beacon of support and encouragement for the running community, New Balance Malaysia reminds us that every runner’s journey is worthy of celebration, irrespective of pace or distance. The achievements of Esther Joy Chen, Ann Pow, and Kak Fit in Nagoya serve as a powerful testament to the limitless possibilities that unfold when one runs their own path.
In essence, New Balance Malaysia‘s inspiring journey at the Nagoya Women’s Marathon 2024 exemplifies the transformative power of running, uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds under a shared passion and vision. As we continue to lace up our shoes and hit the pavement, let us draw inspiration from these remarkable women and remember that in the world of running, the only limits are the ones we set for ourselves.
