KUALA LUMPUR: Distance is merely a number for three remarkable para-athletes who pushed their wheelchairs through a gruelling 100km ultra-marathon - a feat that puts everyday challenges into perspective.
In an inspiring display of the human spirit at last weekend's Sekinchan Ultra, Luke Chua, Razali Cantik and Wan Effendi Sodikin not only took on the daunting distance but conquered it with determination.
Luke, 41, emerged as the standout performer, completing the course in 10:10:11s.
Razali and Effendi crossed the finish line in 13:01:40 and 16:19:28, respectively, within the 18-hour cutoff time.
The achievement holds special significance for Luke, who only transitioned to marathon last year.
A decorated former national para basketball player, he hung up his jersey after the Asean Para Games in Cambodia, concluding an illustrious career that began in 2005 and yielded five silver medals and one bronze for Malaysia.
"Marathon represents my second chapter," said Luke, who balances his athletic pursuits with his role as a private school staff.
"After years of team sports, I yearned for a personal challenge. The competitive fire still burns bright, and this new journey gives purpose to my training while keeping me in peak condition."
His ambitious post-retirement plan includes a 10-race challenge spanning various distances - from half marathons (21km) to full marathons (42km) and now, ultra-marathons.
Since launching this initiative at the Penang Bridge International Marathon late last year, Luke has already completed seven races, with the Sekinchan Ultra marking his first venture into ultra-distance territory.
"Getting a four-hour personal best in full marathons gave me the confidence to attempt 100km.
"The intensive training culminated in hitting my target of around 10 hours, finishing in 10:10:11, which was immensely satisfying."
Beyond personal achievements, Luke sees marathons as a powerful outlet for life's everyday challenges.
"My advice for those facing daily difficulties is not to hide these burdens. Participating in marathons can be an escape and a path to better mental well-being.
"What makes these events special is how strangers cheer for each other, bringing everyone together regardless of their standing in society," he added.