Kuantan folks flock there for recreation and exercise

Monday August 4, 2008

Story by SIMON KHOO

KUANTAN residents have a lot of choice when it comes to going for a jog or a stroll.

The Taman Gelora park, located in the affluent Jalan Teluk Sisek area, is a favourite place for those who want to exercise or relax.

On every afternoon except rainy days, the park is packed with people wanting a workout.

Elderly couples and pensioners have found that a leisurely walk in the park keeps their minds and bodies in shape.

Among the main attractions is a lotus pond with blossoming flowers.

It is a sight to behold as the public take walks along the jogging track around the pond.

Security is not a concern as the territorial army camp and Ikip College are located opposite the park.

Keen runners make use of a separate jogging track which offers a view of the sea.

Children are not left out as there is a big playground with a lot of facilities.

Alternatively, they can stroll on a wooden bridge which oversees a man-made lake.

They can even pester their parents to take them on a boat ride or enjoy a family picnic at rest huts or gazebo.

Food is not a problem as there are many eateries and hawker stalls offering dishes ranging from goreng pisang to fried rice and noodles.

Other facilities include a foot reflexology path, a hibiscus park and outdoor exercise equipment.

In the vicinity are futsal and football fields, tennis and volleyball courts, a bicycle track and an aerobic stage.

There are also camping sites for those who want to spend a night at the park.

Teruntum assemblyman Chang Hong Seong said he had highlighted the damaged facilities at the park during a local council meeting in May.

He said, as a result, the state approved an allocation of RM80,000 to replace the damaged items.

“I hope the public will cooperate by using the facilities with care once they are replaced.

“Let’s treat public amenities like our own to minimise replacement costs,” he said.