It all started when several parents of special-needs children began signing their kids up for running events in Malaysia.
As these children – some autistic, others with physical disabilities – started gaining confidence and becoming more sociable thanks to outdoor activities, the parents decided it was time to group up.
Enter the Incredible Warrior – a team that is set to make its presence felt at the National Press Club Malaysia’s Jom Jalan with NPC 2025 on Nov 29 at Padang Merbok in Kuala Lumpur.
“The group was formed last year. We decided to form this group as we saw the benefits of taking our children to running events,” said Rezza Norlilyazreen, who organises the group.
“My seven-year-old child is autistic and I have personally seen the difference since we started participating in such events. My child can utter words and is more sociable, unlike before.”
Rezza said the group of 30 children is often accompanied by parents and guardians at weekend events. She added that the same will be seen at Padang Merbok on Nov 29, when many of them are set to participate in Jom Jalan with NPC 2025.
Organised by the National Press Club Malaysia, and supported and sanctioned by the Federal Territories Athletics Association (FTAA), Jom Jalan with NPC 2025 aims to promote walking among the public and unearth new racewalking talent.
The event is divided into two categories: a 10km competitive race walk with several subcategories, and a 5km fun walk. The 10km race walk includes Men’s Open, Women’s Open, and Boys’ and Girls’ (aged 13-17). The fun walk is open to all.
“I’m thankful to FTAA for informing us about this event. And we are truly happy to be part of it. Prior to taking part in such events, our children felt they were not wanted, and not treated fairly by the community. But ever since joining, they feel normal, accepted, and part of society.
“This means the world to us as parents. Thus, I am thankful for such events, including Jom Jalan with NPC 2025, and we will be there for the 5km fun walk,” she added.
Online registration is now open. To register, visit:
https://checkpointspot.asia/event/Jom-Jalan-with-NPC-2025
https://raceroster.com/events/2025/108273/jom-jalan-with-npc-2025
https://www.racexasia.com/event/jom-jalan-with-npc-2025-npcr25
