2,000 runners join barefoot race in Padang Pariaman
Held at Pantai Katapiang, the event is billed as Sumatera's first barefoot run and aims to boost sport tourism.
About 2,000 participants from various regencies and cities across Indonesia joined the Barefoot Running Padang Pariaman at Pantai Katapiang, Batang Anai District, Padang Pariaman Regency, West Sumatra, on Saturday (1/8). The Padang Pariaman Regency government described it as the first barefoot running competition on Sumatera. Padang Pariaman Regent John Kenedy Azis said the event was designed not only as a sport, but also to promote coastal tourism and environmental conservation. Local authorities said the turnout also boosted hotels, restaurants, local transport and sales of MSME products. Padang Pariaman Head of the Youth and Sports Tourism Office Anton Wira Tanjung said the event, originally planned for a regional level, expanded after attracting participants from many areas, including overseas.