Weekend Pacers Bringing Brunei Runners Together Every Weekend

Weekend Pacers formed in Bandar Seri Begawan in July 2023, when a small group of friends turned their casual weekend jogs into a growing running community. The group's name, Weekend Pacers, was created by co-founder Haziq, reflecting their original routine of weekend runs balanced with other weekly commitments like work, gym, and football. From these modest beginnings, the group steadily expanded, evolving their gatherings beyond Sunday jogs to include night runs, track workouts, and hill sprints, turning a simple idea into a lively local running culture.

Weekend Pacers see running as a way to connect people and make the sport accessible and fun for all skill levels. Their philosophy focuses on inclusivity, growth, and the idea that the endurance and resilience built through running enhance other parts of life. They aim to create an environment where discipline and camaraderie develop together. Their motto reflects this mindset, supporting runners from their first steps to personal bests without pressure, while helping each other along the shared journey.

A Growing Crew United By Shared Strides

Starting with just four friends, Weekend Pacers quickly expanded to include family, friends, and coworkers. Today, they are a small yet lively community of runners who gather every weekend. The group's social environment is friendly and supportive, built on mutual respect and a love for running. Their weekly highlight is the WP Sunday Social, a structured group run divided into three or four pace groups, each led by an experienced pacer. This arrangement ensures everyone feels comfortable and motivated, fostering friendships that go beyond just running together.

Weekend Pacers hold their signature runs on Sundays, taking advantage of Bandar Seri Begawan’s weekend road closures to explore the city’s landmarks. Their routes usually pass by the architectural marvels of Masjid SOAS and the RIPAS bridge, offering a scenic backdrop that enhances the experience. These runs are not just workouts but community events where runners of different abilities come together to share the rhythm of the city streets. Over time, their schedule has expanded to include track sessions and hill sprints, broadening training opportunities for members.

Membership in Weekend Pacers is open to everyone interested in running, with no fees or barriers to entry. Their welcoming approach means newcomers can join at any time, regardless of experience. Information about meet-up times and locations is shared through local channels and social media. The crew encourages a supportive atmosphere where runners can grow at their own pace, making Weekend Pacers a community that values connection as much as kilometers.

Brunei’s Urban Running Community Blossoms

Within Bandar Seri Begawan, Weekend Pacers contribute to a growing interest in urban running. Their presence helps activate public spaces and encourages residents to adopt a healthy, active lifestyle. By organizing regular events and participating in local initiatives, the crew strengthens ties within the city’s diverse running scene, creating pathways for more people to engage with the sport and with each other.

Bandar Seri Begawan’s Calm Yet Vibrant Energy

The capital of Brunei offers a peaceful atmosphere that blends modern city life with cultural heritage. Its quiet streets and green areas create an inviting environment for runners. Bandar Seri Begawan’s mix of tradition and progress provides Weekend Pacers with unique routes and a friendly setting that accommodates both casual joggers and dedicated athletes.

Typical runs from Weekend Pacers pass by notable landmarks like the ornate Masjid SOAS, one of the city’s most striking mosques, and the elegant RIPAS bridge. These routes highlight the city’s architectural beauty while offering diverse terrain for runners. The weekend road closures provide a rare chance to run without interruptions through the city center, transforming the streets into a community running track that members look forward to every week.

In September 2024, Weekend Pacers participated in their first international marathon in Sydney. This experience introduced them to the global running community and renewed their sense of purpose. By taking part in events outside of Brunei, the team aims to expand its reach and bring fresh energy back to their local races. Supporting both local and international races remains part of their ongoing mission to promote growth and celebrate the universal joy of running.