Kuala lumpur: KL Wellness City (KLWC) has confirmed its participation in the Tourism Pahang King of the Mountain (KOM) Genting Highlands 2026, fresh from the team's successful outing at the HYROX Chengdu Championship in China.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the high-altitude cycling endurance event, scheduled for Oct 26, will see participants tackle a grueling 55-kilometre route from Bentong to the apex of Genting Highlands, with a total elevation gain of over 1,800 metres, making it the highest amateur cycling climb in Southeast Asia.
KL Wellness City executive director Datuk Seri Dr Vincent Tiew, who is one of the five riders representing the team, noted that the second edition would be more challenging as the cut-off time has been reduced to four and a half hours, compared with five hours last season. He highlighted that last year, the event drew over 200 riders, with nearly 40 per cent being foreigners. The number of categories has been increased to 11, which allows for more age groups and ensures fair competition for older riders.
The launch was officiated by Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Mordi Bimol, alongside MUSE Group Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Riduwan Matni and Vincent, who will lead the KLWC athlete team. The KLWC team, which includes Lee See Yeng, Ivoyne Ong, Chua Siong Tat, and Shahariz Aziz, is aiming for a podium finish in the elite wave category.
As the strategic partner for the event, KLWC noted that over 160 riders have already signed up since registration opened last June. Public registration will close on Oct 11, and organisers are targeting a total of 400 riders for the 2026 event. Mordi highlighted the event's inclusivity, which aligns with the national trend towards a healthier lifestyle.
Earlier, the ceremony also celebrated the team's recent success at the HYROX Chengdu Championship held on Aug 1 and 2, where they secured two championship titles and one second-place podium finish. The HYROX winners from KL Wellness City included Tan Ay Bing and Vincent, who took first place in the men's doubles professional category, and Ay Bing, who also secured a first place finish in the mixed doubles with Yeap Jing Nee. Additionally, Jing Ching and Vincent finished as runners-up in the mixed doubles category for the age group between 55 to 59.
In recognition of their international achievements, the podium winners were presented with appreciation gifts valued at more than RM30,000.