Kilian Jornet needs no introduction. His quest to set climbing records on the World’s most iconic mountains begun 6 years ago. He has already conquered Mount Blanc, Cervino, Denali, Kilimanjaro and Aconcagua. Naturally, Everest would be the next beast to tame. This is under his Summits of My Life project.
Kilian has successfully summit Everest via the North Face of the World’s Highest Mountain following the traditional route at midnight. May 21st 2017, Kilian made it. And as if once weren’t enough, on May 27th, he did it again – doing it without the assistance of Oxygen Supply. Kilian really is the world’s greatest Alpinist. He made the climb from Advanced Base camp up to the summit in 17 hours. He seems to be a freak of nature or just really talented and gifted.
To put things more into perspective, let’s compare his ascent to Adrian Ballinger. Adrian himself is a talented mountaineer. Adrian summited Everest without Oxygen as well on May 24th. This would be his 7th ascent. He left advanced Base Camp on May 24th and successfully summited Everest on May 27th. It took him 3 days what Kilian did in 17 hours. Be reminded that this is not because Adrian is a weak climber – he is an insanely strong climber, but it just shows how much stronger Kilian is.
We look forward to see how Kilian does in UTMB this year.
Transcend Yourself! This is the mantra for “The Performance Series” powered by Passion Card together with the many other sponsors and partners which amongst them, JustRunLah! This is the 1st series of race for “The Performance Series” held in Singapore on Sunday, 28 May 2017 at the Stadium Riverside Walk. There are 2 more upcoming races on 13 August and 5 November this year.
Transcend: To go beyond one’s own limits, Overcome or Triumph Over. Transcend Yourself, Transcend Myself indeed! This is the second time I am participating in “The Performance Series” and also my first time running in a 21km half marathon. And this is also the first time “The Performance Series” is organising a 21km half marathon. The previous races that took place last year were 10km, 5km and 2.5km respectively. Having participated at numerous runs, I was intrigued and excited when I discovered that “The Performance Series” announced that they are organising the half marathon and I therefore signed up for it without much hesitation. This is also an opportunity for me to challenge myself to go beyond my own limits, overcome and triumph over my fear and doubt that I am incompetent to complete the half marathon.
REPC
The Race Entry Pack Collection (REPC) was held over 2 days on 20 & 21 May at City Square Mall. I collected my race pack on the first day in the early afternoon and there was already an overwhelming crowd queuing for their race packs when I reached the venue. However the crowd was well controlled and I managed to collect my race packs within the next 30 minutes upon my arrival. Kudos to the secondary school student volunteers who were helping out at the REPC! You guys have done a great job.
Race Day
Or rather Judgment Day. Haha, kidding! I was all set and eager to run as I have been looking forward to this event for weeks. I arrived at the race village – Stadium Riverside Walk at 4.30am and already, there were many participants. I guessed they were just as excited as me too. I managed to “trough” my way to the 1st wave of the start pen and the emcee announced that there would be at least 3 waves for the 21km participants. Andy Tan the Managing Director of Just RunLah! flagged off the race at 5am sharp! And off we go for the 1st wave of runners!
The weather was cool and in the still of the morning at 5am, all you could hear was the sound of the runners’ footsteps. I would say that there were no major choked points or narrow paths during the entire run except for the cornering adjacent to the Singapore Indoor Stadium that leads to the Tanjung Rhu Bridge, which was a short narrow meandering curve. As it was still dark and the park was poorly lit, everyone slowed down their pace to avoid knocking into one another. The route was a joy to run, as it was mostly flat road except for 2 “minor” hurdles. But to the seasoned runners, these should not pose as any setback for them. One: The slope bridge leading up to the Marina Barrage Roof Garden and second: a slight “uphill” slope of the pedestrian bridge across Fort Road leading towards East Coast Park. Whilst running along East Coast Park, we could actually hear the sound of horns from the vessels anchored near ashore. I enjoyed the scenic route along East Coast Park and also the sea breezes that cooled the runners off their sweat. Thanks to the organizers of “The Performance Series” for the well thought-through route!
There were also distance markers at every 1km mark and unlike the contemporary distance markers, every one of them is different and unique. So if you do not have a running watch to tell the distance, you can actually look out for these distance markers and gauge the distance you are at during the run. What actually caught my attention are the distance markers at the 12Km and 14km mark. 12km = “No pain, No gain” and 14km mark: “Run your own race.” Indeed! IMHO…This is what “The Performance Series” is all about. #Transcend Yourself. It is not about a race with others or a race against the hours, minutes and seconds but your own race and a race challenging yourself to go beyond your own limits!
There were also sufficient marshallers along the running route to guide the runners and they too were encouraging to the runners and cheering them on. I was initially skeptical about the hydration points for the 21km running distance whether or not there will be sufficient hydration for the runners. My worry was unfounded as there was at least a hydration point at every 2km or 3km mark. We were served Lucozade Sport as well as pH balancer who sponsored the drinks for this event. The Lucozade Sport was chilled at most hydration points and it was refreshing and a thirst quencher for me. Lol!
The End In Mind
At the 17km mark, I was starting to feel exhausted, as I have to again cross the pedestrian bridge across Fort Road to get back to Tanjung Rhu and to the Finishing Point. Just as I was about to cross the bridge, I saw another distance marker that says: “You got yourself this far! Just keep running!” Haha…! These distance markers surely served yet another purpose, that is, motivation to us runners!
After running for another 4km…Finally! Yes finally! I successfully crossed the finishing line. I did it! You did it! We did it! There were further giveaways of chilled canned Lucozade Sport drinks and bottled pH balancer. After receiving the drinks, I proceeded further to the medal and finisher t-shirt collection point. The medal is a beauty that resulted in me exuding a wide smile, as it is after all my first 21km half marathon. Along with the medal is also the finisher t-shirt that I donned soon after and took a pose with them. As the world begins her daily affairs, my soring but happy feet are now resting on my couch and it’s my turn to say goodnight world and hello tomorrow for a better run next time!
The Performance Series is a series of running races throughout the year at different parts of Singapore and this is the first of the three races this year. Last year, in 2016, there is only the 5km and 10km category but this year there is the half marathon category ? I’m running the 10km category.
The objective of TPS is to promote healthy lifestyle consistently through the appreciation of running at the iconic landmarks in Singapore. The running routes is not always at the same place throughout the series spread over the year. That’s what I like of the idea, running at different place so I will not get bored of the usual routes ?
Thank you Justina for helping me to collect the racepack while I went to run SCKLM and thank you JustRunLah for the race slot ?
The race venue is at Stadium Riverside, and flag off for the 10km category is at 6.30am whereas the flag off time for the half marathon category is at 5am. I find that the flag off for 5km is too late as by 8am the Sun will be out to burn already. But maybe not all people is like me lah, sun out will melt ?
So the flag off for 10km is at 6.30am and I took a Grab down which is only $9 after promo code from Grab of a $5 off. Which is close to the price of shuttle bus. Ever since I started taking Grab, I didn’t purchase anymore shuttle bus ticket to race venue as I find Grab less of a hassle and fares is acceptable ?
Proceed to the start line and was flagged off on time. Before that we were seeing the top half marathon runners coming in. With the first men under 1hr15mins. That’s almost the time I need to take to run my 10km ? I was still sick from my cough and flu. It’s been one week of no running after SCKLM but still just slightly better only. It’s the season now where a lot of people fall sick.
Start point at Stadium Riverside Wall running towards the flower domes in gardens by Bay and that’s 5km when we make a u-turn back.
There’s quite a few water points along the way and I didn’t really take notice as the whole run I feel like I’m floating around, can’t really concentrate maybe because I’m still sick and a little giddy. I don’t think it’s advisable to people to run if they are sick, don’t say I teach u all to run when sick ok？ ? Just that I know myself well and what I can handle. If cannot make it then don’t force, so I walk quite a lot at the last few kilometres towards the finishing line. Stopped at the last hydration point and took the Lucozade, its so cold and nice and taste like Lemonade ?
Ending point and the collection point for the finisher entitlements are quite far apart luckily there is no queues. And collected my entitlements immediately ? I like the medal design and guess if I’m running race 2 and 3 I will be running 10km also the complete the same medals set.
Last year runners only have race tee but this year there is race singlet! I really love the race singlet and the finisher tee material! So different from the usual dri-fit material and it’s so soft and nice to wear! ? And it’s so efficient! Race results are available as the websites is updating it live which is really awesome!
Thank you Centerpiece Floral Design for the delightful bouquet!
Disclaimer: This is just an honest review of the run. If you feel uncomfortable reading at any point of time, you see the x on the top right corner, please click that. Thank you.
PCCW Charity Run is a run definitely worth joining. There are so many reason for you join this run! Thats the reason you are even here reading isnt it. To know if it is worth it! Before I go into detail, yes this is confirm worth your time.
As said on the title of the run, this is a charity run. It means the registration fee you paid for this run will also go to charity, and on top of that, it gives you an option to add in addition amount if you want to donate more for them. On top of doing good by donation, the amount you donated will be a deductible on your tax assessment! Simply speaking, lesser tax needed to pay! Good right! The registration fee for early bird is only S$30! Even if you missed the early bird, its only S$35! The more you pay the better isnt it! Anyway, the race itself is on a weekday morning, unlike the usual run which is on a weekend. So… if you have an office hour job like myself, you may need to apply leave, unless you want to reach your office all sweaty or if your workplace provides bathing facility! Anyway, the run starts at 7am and anyone could finish the run within an hour so i guess there is still plenty of time for you to wash up before work.
Anyway, I would like to talk about the race pack collection but unfortunately I missed both the collection days because I assume both days would be the two weekends but the collection day was on a Friday and Saturday. When I went there on Sunday then I realise the collection days are over. So I emailed the organiser (pinkapple) and they advise me to collect on the race day itself, which I think was okay. At least they still let me participate! The location of the race pack collection was at Velocity @ Novena Square, which is very convenient, right above Novena Mrt.
So I reach the race event at 6.45am and went to collect my race packs. The race pack consist of the runner singlet, a tower and a drawstring bag. I wasnt expecting alot of people and yup it wasnt as crowded as your usual run. I guess it was due to limited slots and the run is on a weekday. After the collection, I went straight into the starting point. As usual the MC is very energetic. And off with the run.
The race route is very simple and straight forward. Starting point at gardens by the bay (sliver leaf) just beside the flower dome, running towards marina barrage, cross the bridge to gardens by the bay east, a U turn and all the way back towards the starting point, pass it and towards MBS till the mid point fountain, and a u turn back to the starting point, which is also the ending point. Although the route is a two way route, everyone was suppose to keep right so that they will not block the path of those incoming runners but as usual people dont follow the rules anyway. But I am surprise by how the organiser had already anticipated this to happen. So they have a bike team to cycle in front of the first runner to clear the path for them because this is a competitive run for them. Simple things like this makes the whole event smooth.
After crossing the finish line, a queue welcomes us. Queuing to receive not one, but two packs of sports drink and our medal! The medal looks very nice. Blue with gold which is surprisingly a good combination. After the collection of the medal, another queue awaits us. For the finisher T! Yea this run has a finisher T although it is only 5km! Its black with a simple design at the front which I really love. At the race village, there is a insta print booth which allows you to instantly print your pictures, for free! And that’s that! I went back after that.
Conclusion for this race. I paid $30 (for donation and is able to reduce my tax), i get a singlet, tower, drawstring bag, medal and a finisher T shirt. You tell me why is it not worth it.
If you are a mother, or going to be one soon, and your favourite past time is undoubtedly sports, you may want to have a look at this article. It’s rather common nowadays to see videos and articles on exercises for pregnant women and while most of them are pretty mild in nature (aqua aerobics, pre-natal yoga, etc), some can be quite intense. I’m talking about workouts that are HIIT-in-nature intense by the way.
And while it is common for the elder folk to tell you not to engage in vigorous exercises when you are pregnant, running is a sport you can still do. Of course you shouldn’t be jumping across hurdles and pitting yourself on crazy uphill or rough terrain but a good run can do more good to your pregnant self than you would imagine. Here are some ways it can.
#1 It Lessens Back Pain
Image credit: Intheloop.com.sg
As your belly increases in size, most pregnant women will start getting back aches that can be really painful and uncomfortable. Running not only helps with keeping your posture right, it also helps you to alleviate the aches which will help so much in your daily go-abouts.
#2 It Prevents Weight Gain
Another significant issue faced by mothers-to-be. With another life growing inside you, it can be very easy to fall victim to the notion of having to “feed two people in one body”. But being overweight while you are pregnant can be highly detrimental to yours and your baby’s well-being. Whether it is a moderate run or a slow jog, keeping yourself moving while preggers can do you a whole lot of good to keep the weight off and feel good about yourself.
#3 Maintains Your Emotional And Mental Well-being
Which brings me to this point. Not only can running while you are pregnant keep you fit physically, it can also help to keep your mental and emotional health in check. Keeping those nasty pre-natal (and even post-natal), blues away can really bring a lot more joy to you and your family life. You will be able to not only have a healthy and smooth pregnancy, you will also be glowingly happy in the process.
#4 You Sleep Better
This happens across the board, whether you are pregnant or not. A good run always begets a good night’s sleep and this is so essential for those who are pregnant because sleeping can become pretty uncomfortable when you are carrying around that big belly. Having proper rest calms you and gives you the energy to get things done, it also will help very much when the time comes for your little one to be delivered.
If you are anything like me, your shoes will be the last thing you think of to clean or wash. While your work shoes may not smell bad enough to be cleaned often, your running or gym shoes will definitely need some refreshing after using them for a few of your workout sessions.
Here are some pretty easy ways to get rid of the smell from your shoes. Funky smelling shoes are not the way to go.
#1 Rubbing Alcohol
This method is easy as pie. All you need to do is spritz some rubbing alcohol mixed with water in and on your shoes and you are good to go! You can always soak your shoes in the solution if you think your shoes are extra smelly.
#2 Baking Soda
Photo Credits: David Wolfe
This handy powder can be used for getting rid of the stench in your shoes too! Mix up a concoction of baking soda, dish soap, hydrogen peroxide and together with some scrubbing, you should be able to easily remove the funk from your shoes.
#3 Toothpaste
Not only is it good for your pearly whites, it seems like toothpaste is also good for removing the stink from your smelly, smelly shoes. Use a toothbrush to get into the tiny crevices in your shoes but please use one that is old.
#4 Change Your Insoles
When your insoles are worn out, not only do they feel uncomfortable to walk around on, but they also start to stink your shoes and feet up. Make it a point to change your insoles out to maintain your shoes and also the health of your feet.
#5 Wear Socks
Photo Credits: Palssocks
Socks are the easiest and best way to ensure your feet aren’t soaking in sweat and rubbing against the insides of your shoes as you get through your day. However, even though you saved your shoes from getting smelly, you need to wash your socks because, well, that’s where all the stink has gotten into.
#6 Machine Wash
For the serious cases, you may want to do an extra step and throw your shoes into the washing machine to get them thoroughly cleaned and rid of smell. Just remember to throw in some clothing to lessen the impact of your shoes against the inside of your washing machine. Do make sure you dry your shoes off properly after that, otherwise you will have to live with another added scent of the musky type.
The debate is hot! The logic for: – I paid for my finisher tee, I paid for my medal – you are ripping me off by not giving me my finisher entitlements! I am entitled! It was not that I could not finish the marathon, your checkpoint cutoff times rendered me unable to complete the marathon. The 7 hour cut off time wasn’t up yet! You made me DNF! You stopped me from getting my hard-earned medal. Why are you making a local event one of international standard with these checkpoint cutoff times when our runners aren’t even of international standard. Organisers are demoralising runners with their CP cut-off times! Other organisers do not apply this cut-off times so strictly! How can an organiser profit from DNF-ers?
So here’s some news for people expecting finisher entitlements despite not finishing a race:-
You need to read the rules and regulations before registering for a race. You registering for a race is acknowledging the rules and regulations including the organiser’s cut-off times! You disputing them after the race just shows the kind of sportsmanship you embody!
Your registration fee is inclusive of finisher items on the condition you actually finish the race! You do not pay for a finisher tee! You pay for a race entry! To ask for finisher items despite not completing the race is a disgrace to yourself!
Newsflash: Finisher medals and Finisher Tees are called FINISHER items because it is that – you only get them if you finish! If the organiser were to hand out finisher items to anybody and everybody, the term finisher loses meaning!
Although local athletes may not be of international standard, it does not mean that events organised locally cannot meet an international standard! If you are ready to argue that, then be ready to come to a race that may be gravely over distance, or gravely short of refreshments, and gravely short of road closures! Do not argue for a lower standard! It shows the degree of backward thinking you have!
Just because other organisers are more lenient as to cut-off times, this does not mean every organiser should embody the same degree of empathy! Same goes, just because everyone robs the poor, does not make it right and okay. Just because everyone is doing one thing, does not make it the right thing! Deviating from the norm, does not necessary make it wrong! To think so shows the kind of thought process you possess!
If you have failed, train harder and come back stronger! Earn your finisher medal and finisher tee so you can wear them with pride. What pride is there in wearing a finisher tee you have not earned? To blame the organiser and not think of just training harder and coming back stronger shows the strength of your character – minimal!
Run organisers are out to make money – I mean surely yes. Did you think organisers organise run for the fun of it and for charity? But one thing you need to be clear about is that they do not profit on the undistributed finisher tees and medals. I mean – did you think they would be selling the undistributed items? If you think so, you are naive.
How PRIVILEGED do you have to be to think otherwise?
Sounds harsh, but true! Sports is supposed to shape strength of character and develop sportsmanship. So, respect the distance, respect all the other runners who truly deserve the finisher title, train hard and come back stronger! Good Luck – next time!
The IAAF World Championships 2017 is happening in London this year! 4th August is the big date! Here are 8 athletes to watch out for – they have been on a roll and we look forward to some outstanding performances and hopefully record-breaking timings from them.
#1 Almaz Ayana
Photo Credits: IAAF
Her stunning performance in the Rio Olympics 10,000m was one to remember! She broke away from the leading pack early on to run a impressive world record! She destroyed the world record by 14 seconds – a record that was always thought to be unbreakable. Last season, Ayana came close to breaking Tirunesh Dibaba’s 5000m record.
Perhaps Ayana will go for the double this year! And maybe the World Record?
#2 Mo Farah
Photo Credits: Athletics Weekly
Mo Farah has confirmed that his track career will end with London 2017! And so, we look forward to a great final curtain call. How fitting as well because he will be running in the stadium he first won his double double back in the London Olympics 2012. Watch his final performance before he moves up the distance – the marathon!
#3 Usain Bolt
Photo Credits: Business Insider
The fastest man on earth has many times envisioned his career ending in London! He will be racing – one last time and will only be doing the 100m event. The 200m event remains his favourite event and he does not want to risk being unbeatable at it. It’s the homestretch you’re not going to want to miss!
#4 Caster Semenya
Photo Credits: Yahoo Sports
Semenya has been untouchable at the 2 lap track event! Her speed has been extraordinary! Could she finally annihilate the 34 year old world record? She is an ace in the 800m distance, and really commanded total domination across this distance. Expect a stellar performance from this lady here!
#5 Genzebe Dibaba
Photo Credits: IAAF
Younger sister of the almighty Tirunesh Dibaba, world record holder of the 1500m distance, and heck of a great athlete! Genzebe has hinted stepping up the distance to give Ayana a run for her money! Genzebe runs powerfully across a great range of distances – from the 800m to the 5000m. It will be interesting to see whether she will decide to step up to the 10,000m distance and challenge Ayana!
So, here’s to a competitive World Championships! You’re going to be impressed.
Yes! I am back to Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon again this year. But this time running 42km, the full marathon category whereas last year I ran the 21km half marathon. Now I really look forward to running overseas for new routes and new experiences ?
Once registration opens for SCKLM, I registered immediately as a past participant though none of my friends seems keen to run SCKLM. Even if they are not keen to run, I can still register and travel to Kuala Lumpur by myself right? I’m like a “baby”, I have never travelled anywhere 100km or more away from home alone ? And thought ok, I can finally try travelling alone this time!
But who knows that a few months later, I get to know Willis and taadaa, I got a boyfriend! ? I didn’t tell him about me going to SCKLM as we were just together for like less than a week. But during a dinner with friends in that just few days into our new relationship, July brought it up about me going alone to SCKLM alone and Willis asked if he can come with me and of course I loved the idea that he could come with me! The next day he asked me which airline tickets I’ve bought and immediately bought air tickets to come with me and I thought wow, he’s really so sweet! ? I thought that registration for SCKLM had already closed but somehow, Willis still manage to register for a full marathon slot even at March this year under foreign participants though I thought registration was closed just merely days after registration opened. And so this is our first overseas trip together and I’m looking forward for more to come! ?
I guess after my SCHKM this February a few months back, I have no motivation to do SCKLM. I have also gotten sick just weeks before SCKLM and didn’t really train for it. And worst. Friday just few days before SCKLM I feel heatiness and thoat is pain. Or just simply I’m finding excuses, I was just busying dating my boyfriend so I didn’t really train for SCKLM ?
Worst thing happened. During work on Friday I started to feel sore throat and then start coughing on Saturday. Thought that I will just aim to complete this time round before the cut off time of 7 hours is good enough since we never train for it and I thought that doing a Marathon once in a life time is good enough as I striked off one item from my bucket list but I’ve actually been striking on it a few times already ? This is my 4th marathon. And every time, days before the a 42km I’m always cursing myself. Who am I kidding? 42km is crazy! I’m crazy! Then it’s ok, there’s many crazy people out there doing the 42km too! ?
Willis and I took a flight from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur and we head to collect our racepack at KLCC. It’s quite a misleading and a troublesome location as Hall 6 is outside the building of KLCC like a temporary set up. No matter what it is still out of the way to collect the racepack for us as there is no delivery of racepack overseas Racepack collection is fast and of course it’s a must to look for our names on the board of all full marathon runners!
When I wake up for the marathon, I thought hoseh liao! My throat is painful and burning. But still I wanted to run and Willis assures me that if I want to stop anytime we can just Did Not Finish or Did Not Show but I thought that I’m still alright. Flag off is at Dataran Merdeka on the dot after Malaysia’s National Anthem. I really like the pacers balloons as they are really huge and easy to spot for people who who wants to follow the pacers as the pacer’s balloons in Singapore are always small till can’t be seen.
This is seriously not a good run for me at all. It’s the toughest run I ever did because my body condition bad as I’m sick and I didn’t have a good sleep. It’s Hotel 1915, please don’t choose to stay there as it’s super noisy and I was literally up the whole night without sleep.
After about 15 or 16km into the run we start to walk thought we walked a lot after that, I think we were still quite fast as before 2hr 40mins we completed a half marathon distance already but I mentally can’t take it anymore. Willis is really dear, he takes care of me and I kept doing the mental calculation how many km more I must run in order to walk the rest of the distance between the cut off time. We run, walk, run, walk and whenever we are walking we are walking hand in hand which a few runners did commented: The most romantic couple in this run ?
For the first few hydration points, the water and Lucozade at the hydration points is not cold at all. I was wishing that we would pass by some shops that would sell iced cold water but it’s impossible as the most of time we were just running on the expressway and no shops in sight. However at some hydrations in the end I’m happy like a toad because of the cold water and Lucozade. There’s 2 shower points spraying water and there’s many hydration which provide wet sponge and I put them on my throat and back. It’s really shiok! My survival item is axe oil. Every few km I apply them on my next, under my nose and temple until almost the whole face already ? And I used up almost half the small bottle of axe oil which is really spicy but really it kept me awake and going.
The route is really sloppy with many upslopes but not to forget when there is upslopes there will be down. But only the downslopes is shiok ? As like more than 90% of the time we were running on the expressway, the lanes are huge like 4 or 5 lanes. Basically it’s nice to run at any country with huge land as running in Singapore if there’s more runners you are really squeezing, rubbing shoulders with other runners already. It’s nice to see many friends from Singapore and Malaysia along the way ?
As the sun rises, it’s actually not really hot but tolerable to run and walk in but the vehicles on the road is getting more and the air is getting really bad with all the exhaust fumes in the air. And it pours at the last few km. I thought hoseh liao, immune system will be weak after a 42km and since I’m already sick I am sure it will get worse ?
At the 30km mark, wristbands were given to the full marathon runners though I have no idea what is that for. Maybe it is to make sure that only runners who does not took short cuts and run the full distance will get the finisher items?
Thought it’s finally the last km or so I’m really mentally drained. I stopped a few times and sit down beside the road and I just don’t want to move anymore. I’ve let the 6.30 pacers passed us already and it’s going to be the 7 hours pacers soon. I was swearing and cursing in my heart that no more 42km for me. But who am I kidding? I was sick. Though not really sick enough to be bed ridden but I’m a crazy runner who will run if I can. Just a note to take care of the body before a run and not to get sick. As I’m typing, I’m already looking forward to my next overseas 42.195km ? But anymore SCKLM for me? Maybe not in the recent years ?
Finally it’s few hundred metres before the finishing line. There’s many people cheering for the runners. It’s just few hundred metres to the finishing line but I just can’t run. Though at the last few km Willis said that he wants to piggy back me to the finishing line but I decline as he’s also tired himself already though he assured that he is still very fine maybe if I lose some kgs it’s still ok ?
It’s the hardest medal earned and it’s the longest time ever I’ve spent in a single run/walk. And I seriously only took just one photo after the run which is not usual as I will usually take dozens of photos ? See my super shag face: in
It’s a day after the run. Legs is not chui but I tio flu and fever and cough worsened. Need to rest and recover soon as I’ve got The Performance Series coming already this weekend! ?
POSB is celebrating their 140th anniversary in a meaningful way. POSB is giving back to the community for the 9th year running with the POSB PAssion Run for Kids! Mark your calendars – 10th September 2017, 7am, at the Marina Promontory! Join POSB on their meaningful mission to make a difference. Come #RunForKids at the #POSBPAssionRun!
More than 36,000 running enthusiasts participated in this international race held in the iconic city of Kuala Lumpur. There were also close to 1,700 running tourists from 52 countries and 75 nationalities taking part making SCKLM a truly international event.
KUALA LUMPUR, 21 May 2017: Close to 36,000 runners converged on Dataran Merdeka to take part in the 9th edition of the Standard Chartered KL Marathon today. Cosmas Matolo Muteti,from Kenya won the Full Marathon Men’s Open category in a time of 2:18:43 to take home USD17,500 while the Full Marathon Women’s Open category was won by Elizabeth Chepkanan from Kenya in a time of 2:36:14 also earning USD17,500 in the process.
Five-time champion Kennedy Kiproo Lilan from Kenya came in second in the Full Marathon Men’s Open with a time of 2:19:35 while Tonui Kiprop from Kenya finished third in a time of 2:20:36 In the Full Marathon Women’s Open, Vikoti Chepkemoi from Kenya took second place in a time of 2:40:08 and Zeritu Begashaw Wakijira from Ethiopia had to settle for third place with a time of 2:42:56.
The Full Marathon Malaysian Men’s category saw a close battle between defending champion Muhaizar Mohamad and Leo Tan Huong Leong. These two vastly improved runners were neck to neck until close to the finish when Muhaizar eventually repeated his triumph in last year’s Standard Chartered KL Marathon with an improved time and personal best of 2:35:55. Leo narrowly finished second in a time of 2:38:06 and Ow Yong Jin Kuan came in third in 2:43:45. The Full Marathon Malaysian Women’s category was clinched by Yuan Yufang in a time of 3:23:00, while Loh Chooi Fern clocked 3:25:55 to come in second and Chua Khit Yeng got third place in a time of 3:33:46
FM Open winner Cosmas, was delighted that he not only won the title but recorded a personal best while fighting off multiple winner Kennedy. “I was running against strong opponents but I kept to my game plan and really enjoyed the run through some great scenery,” he said.
Muhaizar was also thrilled to have retained his title, especially after the tough competition with Leo. “It was a hard race but I’m very happy to have defended my title and even happier to record another personal best at the Standard Chartered KL Marathon,” he said.
Rainer Biemans, Project Director of SCKLM and Director of Dirigo Events, added “We are extremely pleased to have pulled off SCKLM 2017 without any major hiccups and we hope that all our runners had a memorable run and a great experience overall. It is gratifying to receive such support from the local and international running fraternity and we are committed to continually improve on all aspects of this event and look forward to welcoming all of you for our 10th anniversary in 2018.”
Mahendra Gursahani, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank said, “As title sponsor, we are delighted to be able to play a part in empowering people from all walks of life to make a difference through this amazing event. There are inspiring stories everywhere today and this is a testament to the power of the Marathon. Congratulations to all our winners and our sincere appreciation goes out to all participants for their tremendous support.”
This was exemplified by more than 30 visually impaired runners who took part in the 5km Fun Run, along with volunteer “running buddies” from Standard Chartered Bank. 20 autistic children from Permata Kurnia and over 100 underprivileged kids from Sivanandha Home and Care2run also participated in the race across various categories. Standard Chartered KL Marathon’s Run For A Reason charity initiative remains an integral part of the event, channelling funds raised to deserving charities that assist underprivileged communities and those in dire need. This year the participating beneficiaries were the Standard Chartered Foundation, National Cancer Society of Malaysia, Dignity for Children Foundation and Hospis Malaysia.
Efforts to make the Marathon more competitive, like having a seven-hour cut-off time and route checkpoints appear to be paying dividends as more than 8,000 runners signed up for the Full Marathon category this year. There were also close to 1700 running tourists from 52 countries and 75 nationalities taking part making SCKLM a truly international event. SCKLM was also the first stop in Englishman Andy Dukes’ epic marathon ride around the world on his BMW motorbike while running in six marathons in six continents.
SCKLM 2017 Race Day was preceded by the Race Entry Pack Collection from 18-20 May which was a bigger affair this year with the inclusion of the Prudential Healthy Life Expo, as well as the Friendship Run and Pasta breakfast on 20 May which saw Full Marathoners from Malaysia and around the world gather for a warm-up run and mingle in a more social setting.
The view this morning during the FM Flag-Off. // Photo credit: Standard Chartered KL Marathon Facebook
Apart from the Full and Half Marathons, the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2017 also featured a 10km distance and a 5km Fun Run for social runners, along with Kids’ Dash categories for children under 12 years of age. There were also several categories like the Corporate Challenge, Media Challenge, Universities Challenge and Ministries Challenge to either raise money for charity as well as provide friendly competition and bragging rights for the eventual winners.
The Standard Chartered KL Marathon has grown to become the premier running event in Malaysia, drawing thousands of local and international runners to the country whilst firmly establishing Malaysia in the global running calendar. The 2017 edition of the race once again saw Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia returning as title sponsor, along with a host of returning and new sponsors, including Honda, Seiko, Brooks, Lucozade and Pacific Regency. The event is owned and organised by Dirigo Events with co-organiser Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur.
Standard Chartered KL Marathon is sanctioned and supported by Malaysia Athletics Federation (MAF), Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur Athletic Federation (FTKLAA), International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and Association of International Marathons, Distance Races (AIMS).
Winners of the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2017
Took part in the 5k run, was down at Novena Square for the race pack collection, I was one of the first few and did not take long to get my race pack. Just a little odd the way they did the collection. Had to wait outside the building and then they let batches of people in at a time. The tote bag was very cute and it’s now the property of my daughter. Towel was great too, usually, anything besides a tee is great, don’t get many other stuff with race packs these days. I chose purple.
The event was held at Sentosa Palawan Green. With the 10k starting at 4.30pm and the 5k Fun Run at 4.40pm. I made my way down to Sentosa and was going to park at Vivocity before takign the train in. I figured that was probably the cheapest way to get there. Vivo was jam packed so in the end I ended up at Harbourfront. It was free to enter Sentosa via train as you just had to show your bib or wear the tee. The weather was not cooperative, it was one of the hottest days ever. I was dripping in sweat way before the run even begin. Lucky I remember to use some sun block and had my cap and shades with me.
4.30pm sharp the 10k was flag off in 2 waves. and the 5k runners were all set to go at 4.40pm. We were flagged off by the 2 mascots and I really pity the guys (or gals) playing the mascots, it must be like an oven in the suit.
It was a very narrow route and for the first 1km I think I was walking most of the time as there were just too many people aroud and some had strollers with them. It was a 5 k course and for the 10k runners they did 2 loops, which made things even worst as you had runners from 5 and 10 merging. The route looked like the number ‘8’ starting at the center and finishing there as well. There was some slopes but I felt they were ok. 2 waterpoints were at either end of the ‘8’. The surprise came after the third km, where suddenly the BEACH appear and you had to do a loop on sand !! … Yeah sand !! Just wondered what those with strollers were going to do here.
After the sand break, it was about 1.5k to the finish where we were given a plastice bag and made our way to what looked like a porduction line and the volunteers were there to give us our goodies which we could keep in the plastic bag … and it was a lot of goodies from biscuits, milk, yoghurt drinks, crackers, dips etc… Grabbed the so very cute medal and made my way to the Meiji Fair to check it out.
The Fair was open to the public and you could purchase discounted food items from there. Ice Cream seemed to be the best seller there. It was still really hot and I did not want to wait too long as I just wanted to get out of my very wet attire. So I skipped the movie screening and lucky draw and picked up what I needed, and made my way back to the car. I did enjoy the run, just that the weather was so very hot. The route was ok just too narrow and crowded and they should have a better water management at the start/finish. Could not find the water point until someone pointed me to the correct location hidden in a little corner. It sure did live up to its Most Delicious Race motto !
THE FIRST Siargao International Marathon will take place on July 23, 2017 at the bustling Municipality of Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte. The 42.195-kilometer footrace will be a fundraising activity for the benefit of the rehabilitation and preservation of the said municipality’s mangrove forests under the dynamic leadership of youthful Mayor Alfredo “JR” Matugas Coro II.
Thousands of runners from all over the globe will converge at the Numancia Elementary School grounds for the out and back cover traversing a good section of the Siargao Circumferential Road. The 5:00 AM gun start will allow all to get to experience the island’s breathtaking scenery that includes the coastline that has given Siargao fame as a haven for surfing and other water sports.
For those not ready for the full distance, participants may opt to join the 21-kilometer or five-kilometer side events. Entry fees are set at PHP 1,800.00 for 42 kilometers and PHP 1,400.00 for 21 kilometers while the five-kilometer race is free to Siargao residents but non-residents must pay PHP 600.00.
“We are limiting the race to only 1,000 runners to ensure a quality race,” said race director Coach Rio de la Cruz during the recent media launch. Joining him were Rep. Francisco Jose “Bingo” F. Matugas of the First District of Surigao del Norte, Erick Bartolome of Open Space Media and Runrio’s Andrew Neri.
Registration is now ongoing at www.runrio.com. Those without credit cards may pay via bank deposit or through registration centers to be set up in Siargao for local runners.
Run the rural roads of Siargao Island this July 23. Sign up now at www.runrio.com.
The race kit for the full and half-marathon includes a race singlet, race bib with timing chip plus a loot bag, medal and finisher shirt upon crossing the finish line. Five-kilometer runners will receive a bib only.
Making the race extra special is that each runner will have one mangrove seedling pledged in his or her name that will be part of a planting activity on July 25. Dr. Jurgenne Primavera, Chief Mangrove Scientific Adviser, will deliver a talk as part of the ceremonies.
Race kits may be claimed at the Sayak Airport from July 20 to 22. Several side activities are also set for participants including an island tour on July 20 and a carbo-loading party on July 21.
Travel and lodging accommodations may also be arranged through the Runrio website. Major sponsor Skyjet Airlines has allocated several flights that will be exclusive for race participants.
For sure, running on the island is a welcome change as it offers everyone a new route to conquer away from the usual urban marathons. Grab the chance now to be part of running history and sign up now as slots, flights and hotels are very limited.
Mok Ying Ren, Soh Hua Qun and Evan Chee are just some of the familiar names that you would hear in the local running scene! These are some of Singapore’s best athletes/ running elites and I had an amazing opportunity last weekend, 13 May 2017, to participate in the Singapore leg of the “Rising Together – Baton Run” with them and the RunONE Community!
RunONE
Now some of you may be wondering what is RunONE. RunONE aims to bring running to everyone. They are also the training partner for this year’s Straits Times Run. RunONE is co-founded by Dr Mok Ying Ren and Jed Senthil. You can find out more about them here.
Rising Together – Baton Run
The Rising Together Baton Run is a lead-up event to the 29th SEA Games and 9th ASEAN Para Games in Kuala Lumpur. This is the first time that such an event is organised by a hosting country in the history of SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games.
Singapore is the penultimate leg in the relay circuit, which has passed through the capital cities of nine other Southeast Asian countries since March. The baton relay will switch to a torch relay and continue through all the Malaysian states before concluding in Kuala Lumpur on 19 August for the SEA Games opening ceremony
[Dates of the Baton Run in the different cities – Photo courtesy of Kuala Lumpur 2017]
The Singapore leg of the “Rising Together – Baton Run” had Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu and Malaysian Minister of Youth and Sports Khairy Jamaluddin with other participants such as Team Singapore athletes, Singapore Sports School student-athletes and Team Nila volunteers join in the Baton relay. It will also feature various notable athletes and sports personalities including gymnast Lim Heem Wei, badminton player Ronald Susilo and swimmers Ang Peng Siong and Mark Chay. The Baton Run was scheduled to pass through several iconic Singapore landmarks such as the Youth Olympic Park, Marina Bay Sands, The Merlion and the Sir Stamford Raffles Statue.
Event Day Excitement
My friend, Cheng Yee and I arrived at SCAPE Youth Park bright and early to meet up with the rest of the group and the team from RunOne! It was nice to see everyone excited and ready up for the event! This being a national event, somehow felt like we were participating in a National Day Parade segment! The RunONE team introduced themselves and gave a short briefing on the event day line-up. Once the briefing was done, we went to change into “Rising Together” event tee! I really liked the design of the event tee though it was slightly too big for me. We took some group photos before hopping onto the shuttle bus which took us to our START point.
The total distance for the Singapore leg of the “Rising Together – Baton Run” leg covered 16.5 KM and there were nine checkpoints. We super excited to be on Mok Ying Ren’s Team which was the 2nd last checkpoint which will start from the Arts House and end at the Somerset Skate Park.
[Route Map for Singapore leg of the “Rising Together – Baton Run”]
Getting to know the Team
While waiting for the baton to arrive, we had the chance to interact with the team from RunOne. It was interesting hearing the athletes talk about managing their training while balancing work and life. It really takes lots of hard work and discipline to do what they do. I salute them for their commitment on going the distance. They also talked about their upcoming events and one of it was the Bangkok Midnight Marathon 2017 happening this weekend on 20 May. Evan Chee and Soh Hua Qun would be representing Singapore in the event.
Time to Run As One
As the time drew nearer to the arrival of the baton arriving, we had to get into formation. The group was led by none other than Dr Mok Ying Ren (double gold medalist in 2007 and 2013 Games), and then followed by the athletes managed by RunONE , Evan Chee and Soh Hua Qun. The rest of us formed up behind them. This is the formation that we had to keep while running to the next checkpoint.
Minister Grace Fu and her contingent soon arrived and the baton was passed to Dr Mok. Off we started out journey to the Somerset Skate Park. Truth be told, I was a tad nervous as I’m not a fast runner and I’m on the team which is led by some of Singapore best runners. I was worried that I could not keep up but that all that changed when we started running. During the run, all of us were chatting with each other and it was enjoyable to run because the group encouraged one another to keep going. My nerves just dissipated. The pace that we were running at was slightly faster than my normal but since it’s a short distance, I was still enjoying the whole experience.
We ran past places like Raffles City Shopping Center, Singapore Management University (SMU), Istana Park which you never would during a normal day/event. It was a surreal feeling to have the police mobile squad driving alongside the team and to have them stop traffic so that we can make our way to the Somerset Skate Park. It felt like we owned the road and you can run freely. It was a great feeling also to have people along the route cheering us on as we made our way to the other checkpoint. Talk about being the centre of attention!
We ran for about 2.5 KM before we reached the Somerset Skate Park. Dr Mok handed over the baton to Rio Paralympic Games triple gold medalist in swimming, Yip Pin Xiu, who then proceeded to complete the 16.5km run. It was an awesome feeling completing the short but fun run. All of us headed back to the SCAPE Youth Park for the closing of the event.
You can click here for the press release on the Singapore leg of the “Rising Together – Baton Run”.
What a Saturday! Big thanks to RunOne for the opportunity! This experience would definitely a highlight of 2017 for me and it would be engraved in my memory for a very long time. Not only did I get a once-in-a-lifetime experience running alongside a team of elite runners but at the same time Run together as One to represent and promote Singapore as part of the SEA Games. Till my next write-up! Let’s Run as One!
Credits : Tony Ton Ton Fun Shots / Digiplex Studios
This Race Review was written from the Race Directors’ perspective
The Race Directors are : Eugene, Tony, Steven, & Jason
The Mata Amazing Race Directors (L-R) : Jason, EuGene, Tony, & Steven (front) with Bee Choo, & Lily
The Mata Amazing Race is a FOC, no-frills, self supported (BYO hydration), integrity based, team event with a unique twist
The race has a 4-hour cutoff time with a typical distance of 12km
The race requires teams to identify their checkpoints, and then plan their own route
RACE DYNAMICS :
Teams are given 12 clues each
Each team is made up of 1 leader and 2 fellow members
Teams are allowed the use of smartphones (to Google), as well as taking any shortcut through buildings, and underpasses. That said, the use of any mode of transportation is strictly prohibited !
Each of the 12 clues has been deliberately cropped / zoomed in to minimize its location from being compromised by the surroundings
All 12 clues must be resolved as each is the location of the CP (checkpoint) of the race
Teams must make their way on foot to every one of these 12 locations before heading back to the Finish Line as a team
At every CP, teams must take a wefie with all 3 members in a single shot with the corresponding CP clearly visible in the background
a +1 hour Time Penalty (to be added to the finishing time) is awarded to teams who :
1) Get the CP wrong
2) Do not have all members of the team in the wefie
The maximum time penalty for any given CP is +1 hour regardless of whether the team fails one or both tasks at a particular CP
The Birth of The Mata Amazing Race :
RD Eugene first brought up his idea of a Mata Ultra Amazing Race during the trial run of my (Jason) Run-To-Eat event back in late November of last year.
The concept of Run-To-Eat is somewhat similar to this race except that it is not a team based run. The CPs are food centres, and runners are required to take selfies at these CPs. The idea of Run-To-Eat as a race has since been shelved, and is now more of a fun get-together run
Fundamentally, The Mata Amazing Race is a scaled-down version of Eugene’s Mata Ultra Amazing Race. The clues though are not as straightforward as his original concept. They have been tweaked to be more challenging for this Mata Amazing Race
For the first Mata Amazing Race, the CPs were based on sculptures and statues located in the CBD area (Participants are kept in the dark as to the theme of the race till after flagoff on race day)
An on-site recce was carried out about 3 months ago
Many details were ironed out, and meticulously scrutinized. The time penalty system only came about during this process.
The race was based on a 3-member team to promote team spirit, and camaraderie. A team is only as fast as it’s slowest runner !
We’ve also tweaked the clues to make it more challenging during this period, and increased the number of CPs from the intended 9 to the final 12
A ranking system was also formulated for teams that starts off with less than full strength, as well as teams that finishes with a man or two short
RD Jason laying out the clues for the teams … Photo Credits : Tan Kim Lai
GOALS AND TARGETS :
Our original target was to have 20-25 teams, given that none of us had previous experience as a Race Director.
Once we had attained the minimal target number, we decided to fund the inclusion of trophies for each member of the Top 5 winning teams, as well as providing 100Plus for finishers, and prizes for the Lucky Draw to be conducted at the end of the event
We would eventually have 35 teams when registrations was closed
trophies for Top 5 teams
Photo credits : Dave Poh
D-DAY :
The day started with a pre-race registration (attendance), a race briefing, group phototakings, before the race was finally flagged off at 7:37 am
Teams headed for their clues that had been laid out in alphabetical order on the floor
After a momentary lapse of shock and disbelief, teams made light work of their clues and slowly at first one, then a couple more .. streamed off from the staging area to execute their plan and their preferred routes
Most importantly, teams understood that this race was based very much more so on planning than just running fast
collage courtesy of Team Kim Jud Sun
briefing underway … Photo Credits : David Tan (Mythos Photography)
Moments before flagoff … Photo Credits : David Tan (Mythos Photography)
and, they’re off ! … Photo Credits : Tony
arranged in alphabetical order according to team names … Photo Credits : Dave Poh (Pictureart Gallery)
still haven’t found what i’m looking for .. Photo Credits : Dave Poh (Pictureart Gallery)
teams at work …
Photo Credits : Dave Poh (Pictureart Gallery)
Photo Credits : David Tan (Mythos Photography)
Photo Credits : David Tan (Mythos Photography)
Photo Credits : David Tan (Mythos Photography)
Photo Credits : Tony Goh (Digiplex Studios)
Photo Credits : Tony Goh (Digiplex Studios)
Photo Credits : Tony Goh (Digiplex Studios)
Photo Credits : Tan Kim Lai
moving out …. Photo Credits : Dave Poh (Pictureart Gallery)
Team Wefies at CPs :
Team FFCC
Team Bank Robber
team Running MahMahs with team B1 Runners
team YaoGui
team JEJ Mochi
team Running MahMahs, team Bank Robbers (background)
team Kim Jud Sun
team Random Heroes
team FFCC, in background … teams : Smurfs, and team Together We Run Further
PODIUM & RANKINGS :
Unbelievably, just when we were expecting teams to take at least 2 hours to complete … the first team returned after 1 Hr 31 Mins ! These included time spent on online search engines, as well as planning the route.
The Champions; team B1 Runners covered 14 km, had to backtrack once or twice between CPs, but otherwise nailed all the CPs without the dreaded time penalty !
They were possibly the team that covered the longest distance of the race.
3 more teams returned within 9 minutes after team B1 Runners, with the last podium slot all but wrapped up in 1 Hr 52 Mins since the race was flagged off
Incredibly, all 32 teams that towed the line at the start not only completed all the 12 CPs given, but amazingly not a single team had incurred any time penalty at all !
1st – B1 Runners
2nd – Random Heroes
3rd – YaoGui
4th – Pocanhontas
5th – Bank Robber
Champions : B1 Runners … one word best sum up this team, Elites ! … Photo Credit : David Tan (Mythos Photography)2nd : Random Heroes … 11th Hour inclusion ! losing out on first place by a mere 6 mins3rd : 要鬼 (Yào Guǐ) … the first team to register for this race. narrowly missing out on 2nd by less than 2 mins4th : Pocahontas … third team to register for the event, their secret weapon : teacher5th : Bank Robber … “misfits” ! Leader has never met his sidekicks, and one of them was robbed from RDs. he was supposed to help with logistics (no, he has no inside knowledge of the clues), had to stand-in for another robber who had cold feet 😛
6th – 11th placed teams
12th – 17th placed teams
18th – 22nd placed teams
23rd – 30th placed teams
RESULTS / E-CERTS :
Compilation of the teams in ranked order
E-Certificates, done up in under 3 days by RD EuGene
FEEDBACK FORMS :
The responses we received filled us with a sense of pride and joy.
We knew this event was going to be different, going to be fun, but at the same time felt it might be challenging to some teams, and for that we were a little apprehensive before the race was underway.
By the end of the event, we felt a sense of relief as every team got all 12 CPs correct !
We’ve had a few participants thanking us more than once for organizing this event.
The online survey reassured us of these positives, but most importantly, we needed to know if there was any area we needed looking into, needed working on.
Alas, the comments we received were simply awesome !
It made us rookie Race Directors feeling very humbled and satisfied.
A big Thank You to each and every participant !
WHY WE DO THIS RACE ?
We wanted to give something back to the running community; to bring friends together, to promote team work and camaraderie, and to provide the platform for strangers (runners) to become friends
THE FUTURE (EDITIONS) :
Buoyed by the feedback of the first edition, we (race directors) are certainly keen and looking forward to getting work on the next one started
We’ve been gathering ideas and hope to soon recce on site
As to when the race will be, we hope it’ll happen soon
Our goal remains the same. Keep it FOC, yet provide trophies for Top 5 teams … and hopefully Lucky Draw prizes, and drinks at the end of the event Our ultimate goal is to attract sponsors for each edition, naming the edition in their honour, and raising awareness and increasing the exposure of their products or services
We seek sponsors for the trophies, lucky draws, and drinks (not monetary benefits)
So please help spread the word. Thank you
We can be reached via our FB page (link below)
CREDITS AND THANKS :
We also like to thank our fellow RD Tony Goh of Digiplex Studios for the Printouts (clues sheet), the Mat designating the Finish (spot), and Photography
The photographers who have so generously volunteered and sacrificed their Sunday morning shooting, and thereafter the time to review, process, and upload their work.
We would like to thank the following people :
Photographers; David Tan (Mythos Photography), Dave Poh (Pictureart Gallery), Tan Kim Lai, Tony Goh (Tony Ton Ton Funshots / Digiplex Studios), Tay Guan Kiat, Wilson Ong, Shiok Runner (Running Shiok) [in no particular order]
Bee Choo for a mammoth effort in recording the finishing times of the teams, especially during the bunch up midway thru
Lily Bimmo for your help and company
and, Nel for co-sponsoring the lucky draw prizes
And last but not least, The Runners !
… for there cannot be a race, without the runners !
Photogs & RDs
L-R : David Tan (hidden), Jason, Tony, Guan Kiat, Steven
Photogs (L-R) : Tan Kim Lai 老大 , Dave Poh (Pictureart Gallery), David Tan (Mythos Photography)
L-R : 老大 Kim Lai, 小猫 Melvin, Dave Poh, Tay Guan Kiat
Elite runners slash trained professional runners tend to land on the front of their feet in contrast with recreational runners who have a greater tendency to land on their heels. Landing on your heels have been linked to a higher chance of injury due to the impact (however this still remains a debate). However, it is always tricky when it comes to changing your first natural instinct as to how you run. Changing your form would mean having to be conscious about going against what you are used to. Perhaps a jolt of electricity could do the trick?
“SWITCHING FROM LANDING HEEL-FIRST TO FOREFOOT-FIRST IS MORE EFFICIENT AND LESS PRONE TO INJURY,” SAYS FLORIAN DAIBER AT THE GERMAN RESEARCH CENTER FOR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN SAARBRÜCKEN.
The Footstriker
Behold the mighty Footstriker – a brand new device that uses electric stimulation to move the runner’s foot to the right angle right before it hits the ground. Early tests suggest that this has a great effect on altering a runner’s style.
How It Works?
The FootStriker uses a pressure sensor placed in a shoe’s insole to detect which part of the foot lands first. Whenever a bad step is recorded during a run, a pad on the back of the calf jumps into action. With this little burst of electricity, the muscles are stimulated and the position of the foot is corrected on the next landing.
The Test
In an early test, the device were tested on 6 runners. During the initial 1 kilometre run without the assistance of The Footstriker device, the percentage of heel strikes was over 95 per cent. After that, runners were instructed to run a further 3km with the device turned on. The percentage of a heel landing plummeted to 16 per cent – showing some promising results. For the final kilometre, the device was switched off and the percentage of heel landing further plummeted to a mere 8 per cent. This suggests that the foot has learnt the new technique. In the testing, the device was only worn on one foot, but improvement happened in both.
In contrast, a control group received coaching on landing on their forefoot. However, the improvement statistic was only a reduction in in 17 per cent from 97 per cent to 80 per cent.
The Solution?
It is difficult to break bad habits, so could the new Footstriker be the solution?We hope so.
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Photo Credits: David Wolfe
Photo Credits: Palssocks
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Photo Credits: Athletics Weekly
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Photo Credits: IAAF![My Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon 2017 [FM] (by Lingderella)](https://www.justrunlah.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/IMG_9694-768x634.jpg "My Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon 2017 [FM] (by Lingderella)")
