KUALA LUMPUR – With four national records under her belt, former national athlete and ex-military officer Melinder Kaur is already looking for her next challenge.
Recently, she stamped her name twice in the Malaysia Book of Records, one for the longest non-stop run on a treadmill by a woman, and for the longest distance run on a treadmill in 24 hours by a woman.
Now, just weeks after her previous accomplishment, the 34-year-old mother of one is already on the hunt for her next record-setting attempt – rope climbing.
Speaking to The Vibes, she said getting the right parties to be onboard with her attempt has been challenging.
“It is hard to find a venue that will allow me to do this. Most of them are frightened when I mention my intentions.
“For this type of activity, it is usually between the Fire and Rescue Department and military who would have the equipment needed,” she said.
But she said that during her time in the military, she only ascended a 10m rope, and this time she wants to aim even higher.
“I am looking for a place where I can climb 20m or more. I don’t have all the details as I can only provide them if I find a venue that agrees to host my attempt.”
As there is currently no Malaysian record for rope climbing, Melinder said the Book of Records will provide her with a benchmark that she has to top.
Her goal is not for her own benefit, but she intends to channel her sponsorships to help the underprivileged, orphaned, and neglected children in our country.
“This struck a chord to lend a hand and woke a desire to attempt extraordinary records and raise funds for the underprivileged.
“My main reason is for a good purpose because I believe this is my unique way to give back and support a cause close to my heart.
“I will never give up in my pursuit to help children in need,” said the Penang-born athlete.
During her most recent national record-breaking attempt, Melinder ran on a treadmill non-stop for 25 hours, starting on July 2 at 10am, and ending at noon the following day.
During the time, she covered a distance of 123.85km within 24 hours at Arte by Thomas Chan Hotel in Mont Kiara.
Melinder said the training she went through during her time in the forces played a huge role in her going the extra mile.
“I went through nine months of training with the military, so I knew I could take on physical challenges as well as any mental challenges that come my way.
“But on that day, I suffered a lot. You don’t only need stamina to do something like this, but also fight the sleepiness that comes with it.
“At night, my friends that were by my side throughout my journey had to keep me awake. I almost fell off the treadmill a couple of times, but they kept me going,” said the former middle-distance national runner.
Although her record-breaking feat ended at 25 hours, Melinder believes she could have gone further.
“I had to stop because of the pain. At one point I even took off my shoes and ran barefoot on the treadmill,” she added.
The previous record for longest non-stop run on a treadmill was held by Ngeoh Chye Choo, who ran 115.29km in 24 hours.
Melinder also holds the national record for fastest woman to perform a 100m forward roll.
Her time was 52.40s, just 10 seconds shy of the world record.
“I will definitely go for the world record. I know I can do it,” she said.
She is also the current national record-holder for the 3000m steeplechase, which she has broken four times during her time in the national team and has held for 22 years with a time of 10:55.31s. – The Vibes, July 30, 2022
