SHAH ALAM – The local running scene reached a new level of intensity last weekend as ASICS Malaysia hosted the inaugural ASICS MAGIC SPEED™ Relay at the Aylezo Speedway Glenmarie. The event, which combined a fast-paced night race with the official unveiling of the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 racing shoe, drew over 250 runners and representatives from 42 of Malaysia’s most prominent running clubs.
The event served as a high-visibility launchpad for ASICS’ latest innovation in the performance category. By choosing a speedway as the venue and a relay as the format, the brand emphasized the “Ekiden” spirit—a traditional Japanese long-distance relay that prioritizes teamwork, unity, and a shared pursuit of speed.
The Launch of MAGIC SPEED™ 5
The centerpiece of the evening was the introduction of the MAGIC SPEED™ 5, a shoe engineered specifically for runners seeking a lightweight, high-response racing experience. Building on the success of its predecessors, the new model features FF LEAP™ midsole foam—a proprietary cushioning technology designed to provide a more energetic toe-off.
A core component of the shoe’s technical architecture is the integrated carbon plate, which works in tandem with the midsole to provide stability and forward propulsion. This combination is intended to help runners “activate their next gear,” making it a competitive option for those looking to shave seconds off their personal bests in distances ranging from 5km to full marathons.
Bringing the Ekiden Tradition to Malaysia
The relay format was a deliberate nod to the Japanese running culture that defines the ASICS brand. Unlike traditional individual races, the ASICS MAGIC SPEED™ Relay required intense coordination and collective effort. Participating clubs included the ASICS Running Club Malaysia (ARC), Boom Sports Club, GODSPEED, Kelana Jaya Running Club (KJRC), and Rise and Shine Crew, among others.
To enhance the competitive atmosphere, the track featured a 100-meter “highlight lane” illuminated by synchronized LED strip lighting. This visually striking addition not only provided better visibility for the athletes during the night race but also served as a focal point for media and spectators. Furthermore, the audience was equipped with LED pulse wristbands, creating a sea of light that reacted to the rhythm of the race, effectively turning a technical sports event into an immersive community spectacle.
Competitive Results and Podium Finishers
The competition was structured into two qualifying heats, with 21 teams battling in each round. From there, the top 10 teams advanced to a high-stakes final to compete for the podium and a share of the cash prizes.
In a display of strategic pacing and raw speed, RC Coaching emerged as the inaugural champions, securing the first-place trophy and a cash prize of RM3,000. They were closely followed by the Muhaizar Mohamad Running Club, led by the veteran Malaysian marathoner, who took second place and RM2,000. Social Athletics rounded out the podium in third place, earning RM1,000.
Boon Tib Soom Nik, Country Manager of ASICS Malaysia, highlighted the significance of the gathering during the prize-giving ceremony. “Tonight marks more than just a race—it marks a moment of unity, energy and progress for Malaysia’s running community. By bringing an Ekiden-inspired concept to Shah Alam and launching the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 here, we’re celebrating teamwork in its purest form.”
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The launch reinforces ASICS’ strategy of blending technical innovation with community-centric events. By engaging over 40 running clubs in a single night, the brand has solidified its presence within the core of the local running ecosystem. The inclusive nature of the relay also allowed for spectators and beginners to experience the high-performance side of the sport in an accessible environment.
The MAGIC SPEED™ 5 is positioned as a premium racing option and will officially hit Malaysian retail shelves on January 22, 2026. Retailing at RM829.00, the shoe will be available at all physical ASICS stores across the country and via the official online portal at ASICS.COM.
