My name is Ni Jia Yeow, though most people know me as Ninja. I’m an Application Data Support Engineer II at Guidewire in Kuala Lumpur. Outside of work, I’m a competitive marathon runner. I started running seriously after graduating from university in July 2022, and within a short time, I was competing at a level I hadn’t imagined when I first started.
The Breakthrough Moment
Last October marked a major turning point in my running journey. I won the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon, one of the most prestigious races in the country. For me, that win was a moment of relief and validation. The long hours of training, the early mornings, the setbacks, all of it came together in that race.
That performance opened the next door. Based on my results in the second half of 2025, especially at KLSCM, I was selected to represent Malaysia at the SEA Games. Standing on the international stage and carrying my country’s flag was something I had always dreamed about. It was an honor to represent Malaysia and compete alongside other top athletes in the region.
The Work Behind the Results
Training at this level requires consistency and discipline. Most weeks, I train almost every day. After work, I head out for evening runs, and on weekends, I’m up early for longer sessions. A typical week includes two hard sessions and one long run, with the rest focused on easier runs to support recovery.
Recovery is just as important as the training itself. I make sure to get enough rest and sleep so my body can handle the workload. Nutrition also plays a big role. I focus on getting enough protein and vitamins to support recovery and stay healthy. I also include sports massages to help prevent injuries and speed up recovery.
Without proper recovery, it’s difficult to improve. Training breaks the body down, and recovery is what allows it to come back stronger. That balance is key to staying consistent and avoiding setbacks.
Finding Balance Between Work and Running
Balancing marathon training with a full-time role at Guidewire takes planning, but it’s something I’ve been able to manage well. The work culture here makes a big difference. It allows me to stay focused during working hours and dedicate time to training after work.
I plan my schedule carefully so that both areas get the attention they need. At work, I prioritize my responsibilities and stay aligned with my team. Outside of work, I stay committed to my training routine.
Running has also shaped how I approach my work. Competing at a high level takes consistency, resilience, and adapting over time. The same applies in a professional setting. Challenges come up, and being able to adjust and stay focused helps me deliver my best.
What’s Next
Next, I’ll be racing in the London Marathon on April 26, 2026. My goal is to set a new personal best. I’m currently aiming to break the 2 hour 25 minute mark, improving on my previous best of 2:27:42 from July 2025.
What keeps me going is the desire to keep improving. I’m always looking to push my limits and see how far I can go. Each race is a chance to get closer to the next level and test what I’m capable of.
Running has taught me that progress comes from steady effort over time. That mindset carries into everything I do, both on and off the course.