KUALA LUMPUR: Former national athlete Melinder Kaur is feeling confident ahead of her bid to set a new world record for the "fastest mile (1.6km) wearing handcuffs" at the KL Sports Arena in Setapak on June 8.
The 36-year-old aims to beat the current Guinness World Record of six minutes and 37 seconds, held by Ireland's Sandra Hickson since May 18, 2018.
The attempt is set to be Melinder's most ambitious yet, following her achievements of three records in the Malaysia Book of Records over the past two years.
In July 2022, she garnered attention for accomplishing two records simultaneously.
She became the first Malaysian woman to run non-stop on a treadmill for 25 hours.
During the same attempt, she recorded the longest distance covered on a treadmill within 24 hours, at 123.85 km.
In January 2023, Melinder became the first Malaysian woman to run non-stop backwards on a treadmill for 12 hours, covering a total distance of 46.814 km.
So, what motivates Melinder to take on this challenge this time, and why choose to run with handcuffs?
"It's unique," said Melinder, who holds the 3,000m steeplechase national record set in 2010.
"Running with restraints can make one feel frustrated, confined, and limited, which can be really tough mentally.
"The act of running with handcuffs symbolises the constraints, obstacles, and limitations we may encounter in life and the courage and resilience required to overcome them.
"I believe that by striving to achieve a feat that few have attempted, let alone accomplished, I can inspire others to believe in their own potential for greatness and pursue their dreams fearlessly."
To gear up for the big day, Melinder explained that she had to work hard to improve her upper body strength with the help of her coach, Sarjan Shaharudin Hashim.
"I am focusing on specific areas to train and strengthen, such as enhancing my upper body strength and improving core stability for better balance," said Melinder.
"Coach Din has been instrumental in my training, providing personalised plans and feedback that have significantly improved my technique, form, and endurance."
Melinder believes she is on track to achieve her goal based on the outcomes of recent time trials. She completed her fourth on Tuesday.
"I am feeling increasingly confident and well-prepared for the world record attempt," said Melinder.
"Each trial has provided valuable insights and opportunities for improvement. With my training, support system, and personal capabilities, I am ready to give my best performance on the day of the record attempt. I have done four time trials, all of which went well."
Melinder hopes her world record attempt will help raise funds for underprivileged children, a cause she has championed in all her previous endeavours.
This time, she has partnered with the Gurpuri Foundation for the initiative.
"As an athlete, my ultimate goal is not fame but effectiveness," said Melinder.
"I strive to make a meaningful impact through my dedication, hard work, and passion for my sport.
"It is my mission to excel, to inspire, and to achieve greatness, not for the spotlight, but for the fulfillment of my goals and the betterment of myself and those around me."
Melinder's attempt receives support from Sun & Sand Sports, BiiB, and Bainsphysio.
