BETONG: Some 165 cyclists from eight countries tested their physical and mental endurance in a 122-kilometre road race on the final day of the 8th Layar Cycling Carnival 2026, here on Sunday.

The race was officially flagged off by Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development and Layar Assemblyman Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu who advised participants to prioritise safety, maintain their competitive spirit and enjoy the racing experience.

The race began at RTC Layar before taking cyclists along the Pan Borneo Highway from the main Betong junction to the P-turn at Debak, followed by Jalan Ulu Paku and Jalan Ulu Layar, with hilly and challenging stretches along the route, before returning to the finish line at RTC Layar.

Zulfamie Aiman of TSG Cycling Academy emerged champion in the Men Open category (19 to 29 years), while Laurel Lauridsen Adrian of Ghost Speed Racing Team claimed both the Master A (30 to 39 years) and Sarawak Closed (16 years and above) titles.

Mohd Nor Umardi of Tugau Vaie won the Master B category (40 to 49 years), while his teammate Nurfara Ain Nabiela topped the Women Open category (16 years and above).

Muhammad Danish Iman of TSG Cycling Academy emerged champion in the Junior category (16 to 18 years), while Dr Norhasmat Abdul Aziz of Xeno Racing Team won the Super Master category (50 years and above).

The Betong Closed category (16 years and above) was won by Mohd Arif Raarfiif of Solidarity Cycling Club, while Giant Racing Team was crowned Best Team.

Overall, the race offered a total cash prize pool of RM41,350 to the winners.

The prize presentation ceremony was officiated by Datuk Gerald alongside Betong Member of Parliament Dato Dr Richard Rapu. -UKASnews