Sunday, May 16, 2010

Loss Of An Icon...

By Frank

The Malaysia ultra endurance sport scene lost an icon yesterday. Ngae Koh Hieng famous for his down to earth lifestyle, barefoot running, sarong, desert and ultra running, singing while racing and training, and also for his big smile on his face has passed away on 15 May 2010.

I was really tired yesterday as I did not sleep a wink as I am trying to simulate being awake in the wee hours for my Sundown Marathon 2010. As I was about to call it a day yesterday, I received a SMS at 9.30pm from Lawrence delivering me the sad news that Ngae has passed on. I was really shocked when I learnt about it and actually took me some time to accept the fact.

Ngae was had a tumour removed a year ago from his head. He recovered well from it and I remember the photo that Lynn took of him during last year's edition of New Balance 15KM Run (this year's edition actually happened earlier this morning). He was all in smiles. But then, I first learnt about his deteriorating condition during my trip to Langkawi Island back in February 2010 for the Ironman Langkawi 2010.

Though I only got to know Ngae for less than a year, I have read about his adventures since I first stared running 3 years ago. The time when I got to know him was during the preparation for Powerman 2009 where we trained together. We had our pre-race dinner and raced together too, but little did I know that, that was the first and last training and race that I did with him. I remember very well on his praises for my run and also on how he overtook me in cycling. And also the moment he got lost in Putrajaya during our Powerman 2009 simulation. Not to mention him promoting and passing around his traditional "Foo Chow" biscuits during our pre-race dinner at Lumut.

With Ngae (in shades) after our Powerman 2009 simulation at Putrajaya...

Ngae promoting "Foo Chow" biscuits...

I'm sure many will miss this great icon for he lived a life too short. Ngae if you are able to read this, we all miss you and wish you a good journey ahead. My condolences to his family and loved ones.

Rest In Peace, Ngae Koh Hieng (08 January 1954 - 15 May 2010)

1 comment:

dannie chOOng said...

our (Carrie & me) condolence to his family. we do not know him personally but did heard about him & saw him few times during races before. the one minutes silent for him during NB15 was really appropriate. thanks for putting this up & acknowledging this great man...