Runners from 40 Nations Set Pace at RedRun 2025 in Bali

TheIndonesia.co - Bali’s tropical charm and vibrant culture will take center stage as over 5,000 runners from 40 countries gather on Sunday, May 18th, 2025, for the AirAsia RedRun. The event will take place in the beautiful coastal enclave of Nusa Dua, offering 21K, 10K, and 5K categories that allow participants to experience Bali’s landscape in motion.

According to Antara News Agency, Indonesia AirAsia CEO Veranita Yosephine, the race has attracted runners from all 33 Indonesian provinces and international cities including Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Bangkok, and Sydney.

“I’ve received messages from groups flying in together just to run and explore Bali,” she said.

One such runner is Malaysian actress Bella Dowanna, taking on her first-ever half marathon. “I just arrived this morning. I’ve done a 14K in Sydney, but this is my longest yet,” she said. “I trained in Kuala Lumpur, and now I’m here to run—and relax.”

The RedRun is part of a broader push to boost international tourism to Indonesia through sport tourism, a growing global trend. With foreign visitors spending an average of USD 1,400 per visit, events like this generate a significant impact on local businesses, hotels, and cultural attractions across Bali.

Veranita hinted at future editions being hosted in Lombok, Labuan Bajo, and Lake Toba, further blending Indonesia’s natural wonders with active travel experiences.

Why Bali is Perfect for Running Events

Bali is more than a scenic backdrop—it’s an ideal location for international running events. The island offers a mix of flat coastal stretches, gentle hills, and winding roads through rice fields and forests, making it suitable for both novice and seasoned runners. The mild early mornings, combined with ocean breezes, create race conditions that are both comfortable and invigorating.

Bali also has the infrastructure and hospitality needed to host global events, including quality accommodations, health services, and international-standard logistics. What truly sets it apart is the cultural experience—runners may find themselves cheered on by locals in traditional dress or accompanied by gamelan music near temples and shrines.

And after crossing the finish line? There’s no better place to recover. With yoga retreats, world-class cuisine, serene beaches, and spa treatments at your fingertips, Bali turns race weekend into a full-body, full-soul escape.

Easy Access: Bali from Malaysia & Singapore

Bali is one of Southeast Asia’s most accessible and well-loved destinations, especially for travelers from Malaysia and Singapore. Daily direct flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, just 25–30 minutes by car from Nusa Dua, the RedRun venue.

Flight time is typically 2.5 to 3 hours, with multiple airlines—including AirAsia, Scoot, Batik Air, and Singapore Airlines—offering convenient and affordable options. From the moment you land, Bali embraces you with tropical warmth, intricate temples, and a coastline that blends surfing excitement with laid-back luxury.

For travelers from elsewhere in the region, Bali is the ideal spot for a weekend getaway, wellness escape, or active holiday. Whether you’re running, relaxing, or a little of both, the island’s mix of culture, comfort, and natural beauty guarantees a memorable stay—far beyond race day.