KOTA KINABALU: A hit-and-run incident during the Borneo International Marathon early Sunday has reignited concerns over road safety management at major sporting events, after two people were injured and another participant later died following the race.
Organisers confirmed that a 40-year-old marathon runner and a Rela member were struck during the event, which drew more than 10,000 participants from around the world to Kota Kinabalu.
The injured runner, who was competing in the full 42km category, reportedly suffered a neck fracture in the pre-dawn incident. The 37-year-old Rela personnel also sustained injuries.
In a statement, organiser Kinabalu Running Club said both victims received immediate medical assistance from the marathon’s emergency team before being transported to hospital for further treatment and observation.
The club added that it had reached out to the families of those affected and was continuing to monitor their condition while cooperating with authorities investigating the case.
Police reports have been lodged and investigations into the hit-and-run are ongoing.
The organisers stressed that participant safety remained a top priority and urged motorists to comply with road closures and traffic control measures implemented during large-scale public events.
“We urge all road users to respect marathon safety measures and the presence of runners, volunteers and event personnel,” the statement said.
The organisers also noted that traffic management for the event had been handled by consultant company Danasafe.
Meanwhile, it was also reported that a half-marathon participant who collapsed after completing the race.
Muhd Irfan Tarmizi Muhlis @ Ramli, a lifeguard attached to the Tawau Sports Complex, reportedly experienced breathing difficulties after finishing the 21km category. He was later pronounced dead at hospital.
Now in its 16th edition, the Borneo International Marathon is among Sabah’s largest annual sporting events, attracting runners from more than 50 countries.
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