International standard marathon that offers unique Balinese cultural experience and scenic route.

Local residents watched and presented performances during the entirety of the recent BII-Maybank Bali Marathon (BMBM) 2015 with excitement as participants passed through the marathon course in Gianyar, Bali from start to finish.

Taking first place this year was Mbogo Elijah Mwaniki from Kenya, who managed to reach the finish line in two hours, 17 minutes and 16 seconds. In all, he traversed the Full Marathon (FM) of 42.195 kilometers. In doing so, Mbogo ended the three-year domination of long-reigning FM BMBM champion Kennedy Kiproo Lilan, who took second place this year.

More than 5,000 contestants from 37 countries participated in BMBM 2015’s three racing categories: the full 42 kilometers, 21 kilometers, 10 kilometers and the Children’s Spirit category.

A total of 1,214 participants entered the Full Marathon. The 21-kilometer Half Marathon was the most popular race this year, with 2,051 runners. A total of 1,757 runners took part in the 10-kilometer category. BMBM 2015 also notably had 40 disabled contestants in wheelchairs who wanted to get a feel of the unique atmosphere at this international running event.

The location of BMBM 2015 in the Gianyar regency which offers Balinese cultural performances and scenic route made for a perfect place to conduct this prestigious gathering of runners.

The start and finish line took place at the Bali Safari Marine Park, which is one of the area’s most renowned family tourist destinations. Many Gianyar locals participated in BMBM 2015 and got the chance to enjoy the event’s festivities, all while giving their support and cheering for the runners.

All-out-efforts: Forty wheelchair athletes participate in the international running event, BMBM 2015.(BII)

Healthier lifestyle

The event, which began early in the morning at 5 a.m., was a source of inspiration for participants. One of them said that it has inspired them to pursue a healthier lifestyle. “I had to watch my diet until the day of the race, so that my body stayed fit,” said Khadad Yudha Prawira, who took part in the Full Marathon.

Khadad’s sentiment was exactly what the organizers of BMBM 2015 wanted to inspire in the general population. It was held precisely as a way to promote healthy living.

In a press conference held a day before the races, BII president director Taswin Zakaria described BMBM as one of Indonesia’s most unique marathon icons.

“BMBM is a pioneer when it comes to internationally certified international marathons in Indonesia. The public constantly keeps popularizing marathon activities such as this. We are very proud to become part of a community that promotes healthy living. Aside from that we also get the chance to support development in Gianyar,” Taswin said.

In addition to being an international-class running event, BMBM 2015 was also designed to introduce Indonesia’s unique local cultures to the rest of the world.

The occasion was also used to humanize financial services, through BMBM 2015’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) program of supporting the improvement of education systems for the people of Gianyar, as well as through BII’s empowerment of disabled community members.

Welcoming dance: Runners experience the Balinese culture while passing through the villages.(BII)

Winning women: Receiving awards for winning the top three places in the Full Marathon in the BII-Maybank Bali Marathon (BMBM) 2015 in the women’s category are (from left to right) Elizabeth Jeruiyot Kiproo Lilan, Elizabeth Chepkanan Rumokol and Viola Jepchirchir Kimeli, who are all from Kenya.(JP/ Anggara Mahendra)

BMBM FM Winners: Mbogo Elijah Mwaniki (full marathon - male-open - second from right), Elizabeth Chepkanan Rumokol (full marathon - female-open - third from right), Hamdan Safril Sayuti (full marathon - male - national - third from left) and Oliva Sadi (full marathon - female - national - second from left).(BII)

Strong Woman: Actress Melanie Putria runs BMBM for the first time and remains strong when reaching the finish line.(BII)

Crossing the temple: Runners enjoy the view of an iconic Balinese temple.(BII)

BII care: BII supports economic empowerment for people with disabilities in Gianyar, one day before BMBM 2015.(BII)

Extra energy: Villagers enthusiastically cheer the runners, giving them extra energy to finish the race.(BII)

The champion: Mbogo Elijah Mwaniki (Kenya) wins the first full marathon open category.(BII)

Brotherhood: The first and second FM Male National winners, Hamdan Safril Sayuti hugs Asmara Mara Bara.(BII)

The race begins: <)