It’s definitely a proud day for Malaysians!
Malaysian athlete, Soh Wai Ching, created a new world record in the Guinness World Records with a distance of 1.295km for the ‘Greatest Vertical Height Stair Climbing in One Hour’ yesterday (18 November) at Four Seasons Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.
Wai Ching who’s the No.1 Tower Runner athlete in Asia and the No.2 athlete in the world broke the previous world record held by Spanis athlete, David Robles at 1.277km!
Speaking to Bernama, Wai Ching said his challenge is also an effort to raise funds for the Malaysian Tower-running Association for which he’s the president as well.
“There are numerous reasons behind this including promoting Malaysia to the world, promoting the sports itself…to get more people to take up the sport as well as to raise funds for our association’s activities for 2021.”
The 26-year-old climbed 66 floors at least four times in an hour! Facebook page Team Malaysia shared Wai Ching’s experience during the La Verticale de la tour Eiffel 2018 at France which is considered one of the most prestigious races in Towerrunning as athletes will have a chance to run in the iconic Eiffel Tower.
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Only 129 contestants were selected with Wai Ching being the first Asian representative. The race was definitely challenging as athletes have to endure the cold weather and climb 1,665 flights of stairs to the top. Despite this, Wai Ching persevered and managed to make it to the Top Ten!
“Although this sport is not popular, I choose to be active because it is very high intensity & challenging. I know with Towerrunning I can achieve success & make Malaysia famous in the world.”
Wai Ching started his career in 2012 when he was 18 years old and completed his degree in Sports Science Major in Exercise from University Malaya.
Congratulations to Wai Ching for this feat and here’s wishing he reaches greater heights (literally)!
Also read: 5 Inspiring Former Malaysian Athletes We Should All Be Talking About
