KUANTAN: Race organisers especially those hosting ultramarathons have been advised to inform the Pahang health authorities about their upcoming events.
Pahang Health director Datuk Dr Rusdi Abd Rahman said there have been cases where some race organisers had failed to inform the health department about their events.
"The race organisers can either inform the state or district health departments and provide us with an advance notice, which will allow the nearest clinic or hospital to prepare in case of an emergency. Organisers can inform us (the state health department) and we will inform the respective district.
"We might not be able to put an ambulance on standby (at an event venue) but when our services are required then we are aware of the situation on the ground and the required medical equipment.
"Race organisers must ensure their running trail is being consistently monitored throughout the event and a patrol watches over the slower racers.
''Participants must not be allowed to be on their own as it will pose a threat in case of any emergencies or health complications," he told reporters when met at Wisma Sri Pahang here today.
Meanwhile, Dr Rusdi said participants, especially those taking part in ultramarathon events, must know their body's condition before entering the race.
"Organisers will usually advise prospective participants on how to prepare for the race, ensure they are physically fit to run the length of the race and not to push themselves too much during the event. Sometimes runners feel unwell a day before the race but choose to continue with the race which exposes them to exhaustion.
"In some cases, participants lack proper rest and low stamina but 'overestimate' themselves. Participants must be able to decide for themselves if they are fit to take part in a race," he said.
On Aug 25, a male participant in a running event at Teluk Chempedak died at the Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital here due to heatstroke several hours after he was found unconscious by a passerby along the running trail.