Hard Rock Hotel Penang
18 June 2023
Hard Rock Hotel Penang continues to amplify its commitment towards the local community by organising Rock to Rock Run 2023, the most-anticipated race of the year for the 9th time on 18 June 2023.
This year, Hard Rock Hotel raised RM50,000 through Rock to Rock Run 2023 for Pertubuhan Kebajikan Tabung Makanan Mutiara (Mutiara Food Bank), a non-profit organisation established by the Penang State Government in 2017. The organisation tackles food waste and reduces hunger at the same time by collecting surplus food supplies and distributing them to the underprivileged. The donation in kind will aid in the provision of food supplies to 280 needy families.
The charity run successfully attracted a total of 2023 participants. Registration fees for both categories of Fun Run (3.8km) and Competitive Run (10.2km) were priced at RM99 nett. Registered runners who completed the race each received a limited edition Rock to Rock Run 2023 t-shirt, participation e-certificate, a finisher medal and entitlement to the lucky draw on the event day.
Rock to Rock Run is an iconic biannual charity run launched in 2010 with the simple goal of giving back to the community. Since then, the charity run has benefited numerous non-profit organisations including Rumah Seri Cahaya (2010 and 2015), Crystal Family Home and Association of Rehab of the Disabled (2011), Asia Community Service Stepping Stone Centre (2012), SJK (C) Permatang Tinggi (2013), SJK(C) Yok Eng (2014), Sekolah Kebangsaan Batu Feringghi (2017), and the Malaysia Civil Defence Department (2019) with the Ambulance for Life Project.
Rock to Rock Run 2023 kicked off at 6.00 am on 18 June 2023 with participants gathering for registration at the car park of Hard Rock Hotel Penang. Despite the pouring rain, the spirits of the runners were not dampened as they joined in the morning dance led by the Vibes Team from the hotel.
All categories were flagged off by The Right Honourable Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang, YB Soon Lip Chee, Penang State EXCO for Youth and Sports, Mr Michael Smeeton, General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Mr Tobias Lackermeier, Executive Assistant Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Penang.
In his speech before the flag-off, YAB Chow Kon Yeow praised the participants for their unwavering commitment towards making a positive impact on the Penang state.
“Events like this exemplify the spirit of unity and compassion that defines Penang. Rock to Rock Run embodies what it means to come together for a common cause, showing the world that Penang is a place where kindness and love thrive”, YAB Chow Kon Yeow said.
Mr Michael Smeeton, General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Penang also expressed his appreciation towards the generous support the event has received.
“Together, we celebrate the collective spirit and support that fuels Rock to Rock Run 2023. We stand united for a meaningful cause. Your presence and generous support inspire us to strive for even greater events and achievements in the future. You’re the true rock stars in this race.”
The day continued with a live band performance by the local band Superfrenz, a mock cheque presentation to Mutiara Food Bank, Awards Presentation and wrapping up successfully prizes included hotel stays, lifestyle items, electronics and more.
Rock to Rock Run 2023 is generously supported by the Penang State Government, Penang Sports Council, Penang Amateur Athletic Association, City Council of Penang Island, Malaysia Civil Defence Department, Howei (M) Sdn. Bhd., Spin Sportswear (Lee Sportswear International Sdn. Bhd.), Sanyu Sdn. Bhd., Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm, Pentech Solution Sdn. Bhd., Sharp Electronics Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Bold Excel Services Sdn. Bhd., FCS Computer System Sdn. Bhd., Technovation Consulting Sdn. Bhd., Spectrum Music Penang and Decathlon Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.