Among the issues raised repeatedly in the past Borneo International Marathons (BIM) was the accuracy in the course distances; particularly the full marathon course.

Nowadays, it is quite common that many marathoners run with gadgets meant to measure the distances of their workouts, e.g. footpods (attached to the shoes) and GPS-equipped sport watches. It is therefore not surprising that many of them would run with these gadgets during an actual race. It is noted, however, that in most cases, even gadgets of the same model worn by different runners would eventually record different readings for the same course. In fact, it is quite possible that the same gadget would record different readings for the same course on separate occasions; thus indicating possible margins of error for the instrument.

It was unclear why some marathoners were convinced that the full marathon course in the BIM was longer than what it was supposed to be, i.e. 42.195km. Perhaps it was a question of calibration or faulty measuring devices, but it was almost impossible for the organiser to check every single device.

The BIM course has been substantially the same from the first time the event was organised in October 2008. The then organiser, Championship Sports Events Sdn Bhd, sought the expertise of officials from the Malaysian Amateur Athletics Union (MAAU), who came to Kota Kinabalu to measure the course personally. However, because of runners's suspicion that the course was longer than supposed to be, the course was again officially measured a second time in 2010. The distance was found to be correct.

We shall spare the readers from the technicality in the method of measurement and instruments used, but it is hoped that this would put to rest any doubts the marathoner might have as far as the course distance is concerned.

We look forward to see you on 6th May 2012!

Written By,

Cornelius Koh