MANGUPURA, balitourismnow.com – That morning, Kuta Beach was bright and sunny. People from various professions came, but what was clear was that they loved running and cared about others. Yes, they ran not only for physical health but also for spiritual well-being.
That was Mamaka Fun Run Vol. II, which took place in the Kuta Beach area, specifically in front of Mamaka Bali, on Sunday, October 26, 2025. That morning, the golden streets of Kuta were bustling again as the event began. More than 700 runners raced for distance, smiles, and positive energy for a truly meaningful cause.
Since the first day, 100% of all Mamaka Fun Run registration fees have been donated directly to the Bali Children Foundation (BCF), transforming every step, sweat, and stride into real change for the children of Bali.
This year, runners saw that impact come to life through Giri, a Balinese-born success story who embodies the purpose behind every kilometer.
Sponsored by BCF and coached by Mamaka, Giri studied at the Elizabeth International School of Hospitality and proudly graduated from college the day before the Fun Run. Now, he is part of the Mamaka family, working as a day laborer and living independently.
“I am so grateful to BCF and Mamaka; they gave me the opportunity to learn, grow, and now stand on my own two feet,” Giri said proudly after the run.
With a sure step, Giri said, “I just graduated yesterday, and today I get to celebrate with everyone here. It feels amazing.”
Giri didn’t run alone; six of his fellow BCF students are now training at Mamaka, following in his footsteps, proving that this partnership isn’t just about giving back, but about moving forward together.
“Seeing Giri here with his hat, his smile, and his story—that’s the real finish line,” said Joel Bartlett, Area General Manager, Mamaka Southeast Asia.
Joel Bartlett emphasized that every kilometer runners run makes a difference. “This is the essence of ‘Miles for Smiles,'” said Margaret Barry, Founder of the Bali Children Foundation.
She believes this mission is more than just books and classrooms. “We help children grow academically, emotionally, and mentally. And thanks to Mamaka’s support, children in Bali can now dream bigger and reach higher,” she said happily.
The youngest winner of the day? Six-year-old Kay, who broke the record for her first 5K run in 35 minutes with her parents, proving that kindness, energy, and good spirits know no age limit.
The running atmosphere became even more intimate as Fitness Plus Indonesia fired up the crowd with a pre-race warm-up. The warm-up was thrilling and then challenged runners to planks and push-ups, with prizes for the toughest participants.
Meanwhile, Pocari Sweat kept everyone hydrated and happy throughout the morning.
The scenic 5K and 10K routes along the Kuta coastline weren’t just about the views; they were also about rediscovering the soul of Bali’s most iconic beach. “Kuta is everyone’s first love,” Bartlett said.
Bartlett said this run aims to rekindle that spirit, showing the world that Kuta is still alive, still shining, and still has stories worth fighting for.
With over 25,000 children supported by BCF across Indonesia and many in Bali directly empowered through the Mamaka Fun Run, the movement continues to grow rapidly each year. And with a target of 1,000+ runners next year, the spirit is burning even brighter.
A Mile for a Smile. A Passion for Kindness. That’s the Mamaka Way.
Love and gratitude to everyone who made this year’s run possible, including our sponsors: Adidas Indonesia, Kanmo, Rip Curl, Rip Curl School of Surf, Waterbom, Fitness Plus, Amazfit, Happy Time, Bali Sport Timing, Pocari Sweat, Fotoyu, and LPM Kuta Beach.
“And to our incredible running community: Indorunners Bali, CCRC, HOTR, Hore, Kantorun, Gianyar Runners, Shuffle & Strides, SRB, Lalalele, and PTB, your energy, passion, and drive make every mile count,” Bartlett concluded. [oko/buda]