BUTM Attracts 1,300 Runners

23 February 2025

KIULU: One thousand three hundred runners tested their stamina during the Borneo Ultra Trail Marathon (BUTM), held from 22 to 23 February.

The BUTM is an annual extreme trail marathon that takes runners through the jungles and landscapes of Kiulu Valley, approximately 45km from Kota Kinabalu.

Participants navigate dirt tracks, backroads, and steep trails, enjoying breathtaking views of ridges, valleys, and the majestic Mount Kinabalu.

Supported by the Sabah Tourism Board, the event features four race categories: 106km, 55km, 32km, and 9km, each designed to challenge runners' endurance and resilience.

One of the participants, British actor and filmmaker Emrhys Cooper, pushed his limits on the rugged trails, describing it as “one of the best ultra marathons” he has ever taken part in.

“The run was challenging but rewarding. I slipped countless times because the trail was wet, but it was great fun,” said Cooper, who is part of the UK-based Maverick Racers.

Best known for his role as a cult leader in the British television programme Coronation Street, Cooper was joined by seven other members of his group in the race.

Despite the tough conditions, he is eager to return.

“I hope to come back again next year with more runners from the UK,” said Cooper, who participated in the 50km category.

This year’s BUTM attracted 1,300 participants, including approximately 300 international runners.

Among them was Norway’s Veslemoy Ronnevik, who won the women’s 50km category.

“The surface was slippery due to the rain, but I really enjoyed the run,” she said.

“It was quite a challenge because of the humidity. It was -10°C in Norway when I left for Sabah to join the run, but the beautiful scenery along the way made it worth it.

“I would rank BUTM among the best, and I’m keeping my options open for next year,” added Ronnevik.

On Saturday, Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment and Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai flagged off the first run of the event.

He welcomed the growing number of international participants, stating that it enhances Sabah’s reputation as a premier adventure tourism destination.

“Cooper’s participation, along with other international runners, will help raise the profile of the annual BUTM, which is already gaining popularity.

“The increasing interest in BUTM and similar events in Kiulu supports our ongoing efforts to promote the district as an adventure tourism hotspot,” said Joniston.

With more international athletes joining each year, BUTM is set to attract even greater global attention, further establishing Sabah as a must-visit destination for endurance runners and adventure seekers.