Record-Breaking Mount Kinabalu Climbathon Celebrates Athletic Excellence and Natural Beauty

Ghiano Gianluca

19 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The highly anticipated 32nd Kinabalu Climbathon took place today, drawing hundreds of runners and adventure enthusiasts from across Malaysia and around the world. The annual event, renowned for its challenging course and stunning scenery, continues to be a highlight in the world of mountain running.

A year after introducing a new, more demanding course, the 32nd Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon delivered a record-breaking performance. Ghiano Gianluca from Italy claimed victory in the Men’s Elite category with a time of 03:05.41, whilst Anastasiia Rubstova Yurievna from Russia emerged as the Women’s Elite champion, finishing in 03:46.13. In the Men’s Veteran category, Daved Simpat from Sabah, dominated the field, completing the race in 03:50.50.

“It was an incredible race, and the weather was fantastic,” said Ghiano Gianluca, Men’s Elite champion. “The most challenging part was the final few kilometres on the road, I had to push myself hard. I thought about all my idols who have raced here, such as Kilian and Bruno Brunod, so I’m very happy and proud to win on the same course. This is my first time here, and this victory is very special to me.”

Anastasia Rubstova Yurievna

“I’m very pleased with today’s race. When I reached the summit, the rocks and the scenery were breathtaking and truly incredible,” said Anastasia Rubstova Yurievna, the Women’s Elite champion. “It’s my first time racing in Sabah, and the experience was amazing. The course was tough but manageable because I studied the GPS track and knew what to expect. I really enjoyed it. I love high altitudes and the challenge of climbing uphill.”

Daved Simpat

“I’m genuinely delighted with this victory. I drew on my experience from previous years; this year was more challenging with many strong international runners. I learnt a great deal from observing how they manage their stamina and pacing. At 43, my message to other runners is never to give up, even when the competition is fierce. Keep working hard, stay confident, and maintain your passion for the sport,” said Daved Simpat, Men’s Veteran champion.

Recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark, the race featured a 24.5 km course, including a 12.25 km ascent to Mount Kinabalu’s summit at 4,095.2 metres, followed by a 12.25 km technical descent. Participants faced steep inclines, rugged terrain, and demanding conditions, making the event a true test of endurance and resilience.

This year’s edition welcomed competitors from 27 countries, including Malaysia, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, Italy, Russia, the United States, and many more. The international field included Skyrunner® World Series contenders, adding a competitive edge to the elite categories.

The race was flagged off at 6:30 a.m. by Hisham Ujang, Chief Senior Assistant Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Environment. The event showcased the stunning beauty of Kinabalu Park whilst celebrating athletic excellence and sportsmanship.

The event featured three categories: Men’s Elite, Women’s Elite, and Men’s Veteran. Top performers received cash prizes and other awards recognising their achievements.

This year’s race forms part of the Skyrunning World Series circuit, with the final round scheduled to take place in Spain on 8 November. It is also recognised by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA), enabling runners to earn official points for completing the course.

Julinus Jeffrey Jimit, CEO of Sabah Tourism Board, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are delighted to see the new course introduced last year challenging athletes in new ways. Their record-breaking performances highlight the world-class potential of Mount Kinabalu as a global sporting destination.”

He added, “Looking ahead, we are pleased to announce that the next edition of the Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon will be held on 18 October 2026, in conjunction with the ‘Explore Sabah’ and ‘Visit Malaysia 2026’ campaigns organised by the Sabah Tourism Board and Tourism Malaysia, respectively.”