Langkawi Tanjung Rhu SwimFest 2016
The Langkawi Tanjung Rhu SwimFest is an open water swimming competition that was recently introduced to the sports arena on December 10, 2016. A debut program under the AkTION series, it is set to become an annual event to hopefully boost tourism to the many islands in Langkawi, specifically targeting sports enthusiasts from around the world.
Langkawi Tanjung Rhu SwimFest 2016
Available in three categories, this race is tailored to swimmers of every level: Two-kilometer for budding swimmers and four- and six-kilometer more specifically for athletes and long-distance swimming enthusiasts. Tanjung Rhu beach is the starting and finishing point of the race, while the preassigned routes will give participants the rare opportunity to experience swimming close to the international border to Malaysia-Thailand.
Thanks to the organizers of the event, I was given the opportunity to experience the first ever Tanjung Rhu Swimfest held in Langkawi last month. Swimming is an activity I enjoy, but it was never something that I have ever taken seriously in life. You can imagine what I've done on the final days leading up to the event - continuous practice and even a change of diet (well, not to swim better, but just so I would look good in my swimsuit =P).
What's in the bag: Each participant was given a swimming kit prior to race day
Event organizers E-Plus Global and Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) had the members of the media flown in on the evening before the event. After a scrumptious dinner and a short sleep, we were chauffeured to the Tanjung Rhu beach early in the morning where participants checked in and were briefed on the mechanics of the race. Shortly after, it was race time.
The start and finish point of the race
The entire course of the race was marked with buoys within every 100 meters to guide swimmers to the right direction. This was a feature I was immensely thankful for because each buoy could be held on to as and when the participants needed to rest. Aside from that, there were a total of four floating platforms which allowed swimmers to hop on for a rest and have a drink before they continued.
Although I had given my words to the organizers that I would participate, I knew for a fact that I was not able to finish the race. While I can easily manage a few unbroken laps in the pool, swimming in the open water (not to forget the merciless waves and jellyfishes) is something completely different. For the sake of experience, I got myself together and proceeded with the race anyway.
Not long into the race, I found myself swimming as hard as I could towards one of the buoy. Without hesitation, I held tightly onto it while questioning God why do swimfests exist. As I turned back to look at how far I've come from the starting point (trust me, it wasn't that far at all), I was delighted to see two other participants swimming towards the buoy I was clinging my entire body to (I wasn't planning to share). They both had an equally exhausted, confused and why-the-hell-did-I-sign-up-for-this look on their face, which we managed to laugh about for a few seconds.
A worried patrol came towards our bobbing heads and asked if we were doing alright. While both of them were determined to swim on, I was quick to surrender. I was finally pulled back to shore safely behind the patrol boat. Well, at least I've gotten a taste of the Tanjung Rhu SwimFest and I was happy I tried!
Other members of the media were still on the beach, and I gladly ran into their consoling arms. We then boarded a separate boat which brought us to the ocean as we watched the race from afar.
The island where 4km and 6km category participants had to circle as part of their route
A floating platform where swimmers can hop on for a rest
Vigilant watchmen on kayaks were sent out to keep an eye on the swimmers throughout the entire course of the race
More watchmen out on patrol
Participants reaching the finish line
National swimmer Kevin Yeap, the winner of the 6km category
National swimmers Kevin Yeap, Tern Jian Han and Vernon Lee dominated the 6km male category (well duh)
Highlight of the race: Malaysia para-athlete Mohd Sabki Bin Arifin was a 6km-category finisher
After the race, participants immersed themselves in the beauty of the picturesque ocean while strolling along the beach under the clear blue sky. A prize giving ceremony followed, while talented Thai performers wowed guests with songs and traditional dances.
The scenic view at Tanjung Rhu beach
Aktion's following programs include the Mt. Mat Chinchang SkyBridge Climb (February 18) and Tuba Trail Run (April 8). For more information on the Tanjung Rhu SwimFest or other events, click here.
Tanjung Rhu SwimFest 2016
Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
E-Plus Global | Langkawi Development Authority