RRI.CO.ID, Mataram - Mount Rinjani in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), is set to welcome thousands of runners from around the world as the annual Rinjani 100 trail race returns on May 1–3, 2026.

This year’s edition has drawn a record 2,275 participants from 38 countries, underscoring the event’s growing reputation as one of Indonesia’s premier trail running competitions. Event founder Hendra Wijaya of FoneSport confirmed preparations are in their final stages.

“Coordination with local administrations, security forces, volunteers, and supporting partners continues to ensure the race runs smoothly, safely, and successfully,” he said after meeting NTB Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal in Mataram on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Of the total participants, 1,375 are Indonesian runners, while 900 hail from overseas, reflecting the race’s expanding global appeal. “This shows how Rinjani 100 has evolved into a flagship trail running event that is increasingly recognized internationally,” Hendra noted.

Beyond the race itself, discussions with the governor also touched on the broader potential of the Sembalun area as a hub for sports, culture, tourism, and creative economy events.

“Rinjani is not only ideal for trail running but also has the capacity to host diverse national and international events. Managed collectively, it could become a magnet for Indonesian sports tourism,” Hendra added, while inviting the governor to attend the opening ceremony.

Governor Iqbal welcomed the initiative, highlighting its positive impact on regional promotion and local economic growth.

“We fully support Rinjani 100. We hope it continues to grow into a high-quality annual agenda that attracts tourists and benefits communities,” he said, stressing the importance of developing Sembalun as a leading sport tourism destination.

Echoing the sentiment, Head of the Provincial Tourism and Creative Economy Agency, Ahmad Nur Aulia, described Rinjani 100 as a model of collaboration between government and private organizers.

“It is more than a race, it is a platform to showcase NTB’s tourism to the world. The economic impact is significant, especially for homestays, transport, culinary businesses, and creative industries,” he concluded. ***