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L’Étape Johor Returns With A Bang To Desaru Coast

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L’Étape Johor Returns With A Bang To Desaru Coast
  • A massive 2-day festival atmosphere including lucky draw prizes, two concerts and a kid’s pushbike competition
  • 2012 Olympic Men’s Team Rowing Gold medalist Matthew Brittain crowned overall champion after dominating win

DESARU, 8 July – True to form, L’Étape Johor by Tour de France presented by Majestic Johor returned with a bang for a second consecutive year to provide a memorable experience for more than 3,600 participants who thronged the exquisite racecourse of Desaru Coast over the first July weekend.

Interest for L’Étape, dubbed “The World’s Greatest Amateur Cycling Event” was never in doubt, evident by the high participation from 47 countries who converged from all regions of the globe to Desaru Coast for the experience of competing like a Tour De France participant.

YB Tuan Mohd Hairi bin Mad Shah, Johor Chairman of Youth and Sports flagging off the riders of the 2023 L’Étape Johor by Tour de France presented by Majestic Johor From left: YB Tuan Raven Kumar Krishnasamy, Johor Chairman of Tourism, Culture & Heritage, (middle) YB Tuan Mohd Hairi bin Mad Shah, (right) Yang Berhormat Dato’ Lukman Abu Bakar, Chief Executive Officer of KPRJ

One of the main highlights of L’Étape Johor, however, was the plethora of festival activities that gave the participants an immense satisfaction of experiencing the event beyond the racecourse.

This included a memorabilia display by Tour de France, a French exhibition, pushbike competition, a public showcase, new product launches, prize presentation and lucrative lucky draw prizes among others.

Those activities only served as the tip of the iceberg, as three other big L’Étape events drew thousands on Friday and Saturday. The first one was the L’Étape Wav Jam, an electrifying yet interactive experience of 12 local indie talents who vowed with their various music genres and immersive vocal chords that delivered all the right feels.

That was not all, as official radio stations hotFM and buletinFM joined forces to stage a unique mini concert on Saturday that included Akademi Fantasia top performing artistes such as Marsha Milan, Amira Othman and Amir Masdi.

It promised everything that was expected – incredible performances, infectious beats and a party atmosphere that got the audience swaying to the music and grooving to the rhythm of the beat. Both events were free but provided priceless money can’t buy experience that helped to soothe the weary limbs of the participants. 

The festival atmosphere also reverberated to the kids, who had the time of their lives at the world’s first L’Étape branded Pushbike competition at the L’Étape Johor Festival Village. More than 200 kids aged two to eight years old participated, and laughter and amusement filled the air as they raced to the finish line.

2023 L’Etape Pushbike, the first L’Etape branded pushbike competition
2023 L’Etape Pushbike, the first L’Etape branded pushbike competition

The excitement post-race continued to build with the epic after-party organized by Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast as participants mingled with refreshing drinks, accompanied by pulsating beats from the DJ deck.

As for the event itself, it unfolded as a competition like no other, and for South Africa’s Matthew Brittain it was extra special after he claimed THE RACE – ELITE category overall male champion, crossing the finish line in 3:17:40 seconds over 140 kilometres.

Brittain is amazingly also a 2012 Olympic gold medalist when he captured first place in men’s team rowing. The 36-year-old said the mentality he instilled in training for rowing helped him greatly when he made the transition to cycling several years ago. “Winning at the Olympics was an amazing experience product of hard work. The mentality and intensity for rowing is the same as training for cycling, and I am happy to have brought that same qualities to this race,” said Brittain.

2023 L’Etape Johor by Tour de France presented by Majestic Johor Male 140km Elite winner Matthew Brittain celebrates his victory
2023 L’Etape Johor by Tour de France presented by Majestic Johor Male 140km Elite winner Matthew Brittain celebrates his victory

“My gameplan here was to attack the leading pack after 90 kilometres. When I saw the opportunity at an uphill, I launched the attack of my life. I just put my head down and saw the vision of the yellow jersey. I had an absolutely amazing race, the roads were beautiful and the entire vibe was fantastic,” Brittain stated.

Success clearly runs in the Brittain household as his wife Alicia won the female category with a time of 3:22:14 seconds.

Meanwhile, the presence of national athletes Anuar Manan,  Aiman Zarif and Nabil Sofian added to the competitiveness of the race, while former Minister of Science, Technology & Innovation Khairy Jamaluddin, radio announcer Fara Fauzana, comedian Johan Raja Lawak as well as AG from hotFM also participated in the 60km ride.

Organizers Muse Group Asia were over the moon with the overall atmosphere of the event. “We wanted to make this year’s event different from last year, which is why we worked hard to introduce these new festival events. We wanted to ensure that our participants’ experience did not just end after their race, but beyond that. To see everyone enjoying themselves not only gives us immense satisfaction, but also inspires us to continue creating cherished moments for our participants in the future,” said Muse Group Asia CEO Riduwan Matni.

The co-organiser, KPRJ Sports were honoured by the overwhelming support from the Malaysian cycling community. “We are proud to host this event for the second time in Johor. It has always been our commitment to grow the sporting community in Johor, and there’s no better way than to bring L’Étape Johor itself to the country to attract our community of cyclists,” said Yang Berhormat Dato’ Lukman Abu Bakar, Chief Executive Officer of KPRJ.

Johor Chairman of Youth and Sports Yang Berhormat Tuan Mohd Hairi Mad Shah, representing the Johor Chief Minister Yang Amat Berhormat Dato’ Onn Hafiz Ghazi, noted that L’Étape Johor has stamped its mark as a signature sporting event in the southern state.

“We have had close to 9,000 participants in the last two years, and it goes to show the huge appetite of cycling in our country. We hope to continue staging this event in Desaru and pledge our commitment to support this event in every way we can,” he said.

Attendees explore the activity-filled 2023 L’Etape Johor by Tour de France presented by Majestic Johor  Festival
Attendees explore the activity-filled 2023 L’Etape Johor by Tour de France presented by Majestic Johor  Festival

Johor Chairman of Tourism, Culture & Heritage Yang Berhormat Tuan Raven Kumar Krishnasamy was also there to witness this event.

Over the years, Desaru Coast has established itself as one of the most attractive sports tourism hub in the country, situated along a gorgeous coastline that overlooks a sparkling blue ocean and a pristine beach. Offering ample choices of accommodation, facilities, infrastructure and ease of access, Desaru Coast has the capacity and space for mega-size international outdoor sporting and lifestyle events.

This event is supported by Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) Malaysia.

30-Minute Beach Workout

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30-Minute Beach Workout

Beach workouts have many advantages, but the sand is where the real magic happens. The environment is unstable due to the changing grains, therefore, your nervous system activates additional muscles in your legs, ankles, hips, and core to keep you stable. Additionally, the soft landing surface that the sand offers help to prevent joint damage when engaging in higher-impact activities.

The 30-minute beach workout that is provided below uses no equipment and works every muscle in your body.

Begin with these warmup exercises to get your body ready to move and accustomed to the instability of the sand.

Instructions: Perform 30 seconds of each move, with a minimum of 30 seconds of rest between movements.

1) BEAR CRAWL

Move like a Navy Seal right off the bat with this core-engaging functional move.

The Move: Begin on your hands and knees. Elevate your knees about 2 inches off the sand. Move your right hand and left foot forward in a crawling motion, keeping your hips lower than your shoulders. Then, move your left hand and right foot forward, and repeat this sequence in a slow and controlled manner.

2) SINGLE-LEG HIP HINGE 

Feel your stabilizing muscles tensing up as you balance and move at the hips as you plant one foot in the sand.

The Move: Raise your left foot off the ground behind you while you stand on your right foot. As you tilt forward, maintaining your hips parallel to the ground, keep your spine neutral and bend your right leg just a little bit. When your left hand is as close to the ground as possible, turn the movement around and return to the beginning position. Change legs and repeat on the opposite side after 30 seconds.

3) HIGH-KNEE JOG

It’s time to feel how quickly the sand can elevate your heart rate!

The Move: While keeping your back straight, lift one leg toward your chest, then the other. The motion becomes more challenging the faster you switch legs. If moving quickly has an excessive impact if stability is an issue, slow down and switch to a high-knee march.

4) RUNNER’S STRETCH WITH ROTATION

This inclusive stretch works your core as well.

The Move: Step your right foot to the outside of your right hand while starting in a firm, high plank position. As you turn your upper body and shoulders to the right, raise your right arm straight up to the ceiling. Your spine should rotate in the same direction as your head and neck. Hold this position for a short while. Repetition on the other side after returning to the plank.

5) TOE WALKS

Use the sand for this workout to strengthen your calf muscles and stabilize your ankle joints.

The Move: Lift your heels off the ground while standing on your toes. Walk forward for 30 seconds with your legs straight.

6) BACKWARD HEEL WALKS

The anterior tibialis muscle can be strengthened by reversing direction while walking on your heels. Additionally, enhancing ankle stability also lessens the risk of developing shin splints.

The Move: For 30 seconds, elevate both of your front feet off the floor while maintaining an upright posture

HCSA Community Services’ inaugural ‘Everesting for Second Chances’ Fundraising Challenge Conquers New Heights For Ex-offenders to Rebuild Their Lives

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HCSA Community Services’ inaugural ‘Everesting for Second Chances’ Fundraising Challenge Conquers New Heights For Ex-offenders to Rebuild Their Lives

Singapore, 1 July 2023 – About 30 participants cycled in solidarity with ex-offenders at the flag off event of the inaugural ‘Everesting for Second Chances’ today. Organised by HCSA Community Services (HCSA), the charitable organisation aims to raise $250,000 to empower ex-offenders to rebuild their lives. All proceeds will go to the HCSA Highpoint Halfway House which focuses on supporting ex-offenders in their reintegration and achieve longer term desistance with its programmes and services. The campaign is supported by the Singapore Cycling Federation, National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre, and Yellow Ribbon Singapore.

Guest-of-Honour, Associate Professor Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development participated alongside ex-offenders and cyclists in the morning session of the 24-hour indoor cycle-thon. Everesting is a term that refers to the activity in which people scale and descend a hill until they accumulate 8,848 metres – the height of Mount Everest – in elevation gain.

“We are so heartened by the support and commitment of both individuals and teams who have participated in Everesting so far. We would like to continue rallying the public to help in ways they can – either by conquering the equivalent height of Mount Everest by pedalling or fostering support for our ex-offender friends by donating for this cause. Every little bit helps and goes a long way towards rebuilding their lives,” said Mrs Kim Lang Khalil, Chief Executive Officer, HCSA Community Services.

Photo Credit: HCSA Community Services. Associate Professor Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development, cycles alongside alumni of HCSA Highpoint Halfway House, Mr Mohammed Feroz Bin Haron and Mr Ram Weera Singam

“Yellow Ribbon Singapore is glad to support this initiative by HCSA Community Services. It provides a platform for the wider community to come together to help ex-offenders in their reintegration journey, through meaningful and creative ways.  It also symbolises the importance of ex-offenders taking ownership of their reintegration through their participation in ‘Everesting for Second Chances’,” shared Mr. Sunny Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Yellow Ribbon Singapore.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this meaningful event. It was a daunting task to complete the cycle but not impossible with the support of so many friends who were cheering for me. It showed me that with the right support, a second chance is possible and there’s light at the end of the tunnel,” said Vincent Tony, an ex-offender who resides at HCSA Highpoint and participated in the challenge.

Photo Credit: HCSA Community Services. Participants cycling 8,848 metres for the ‘Everesting for Second Chances’ Fundraising Challenge at HCSA Community Services

The ongoing challenge will end by 31 July 2023. To meet different fitness levels, participants have the option to either complete the full distance in a single ride, or in multiple rides. To get started, participants simply need to use the STRAVA app, a GPS-enabled physical exercise tracking application. For more information, please visit www.secondchances.sg

HCSA Community Services Conquers New Heights Community With The Launch Of ‘Everesting for Second Chances’ Fundraising Challenge

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HCSA Community Services Conquers New Heights Community With The Launch Of ‘Everesting for Second Chances’ Fundraising Challenge

Singapore, 9 June 2023 – Think you can climb Mount Everest? How about doing it on a bike? HCSA Community Services (HCSA), a charitable organisation that works to empower vulnerable groups – such as ex-offenders, abused teenage girls, and single parents – has launched its inaugural fundraising challenge called ‘Everesting for Second Chances’. Everesting is a term that refers to the activity in which people scale and descend a hill until they accumulate 8,848 metres – the height of Mount Everest – in elevation gain. Supported by the Singapore Cycling Federation, National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre and Yellow Ribbon Singapore, this first-of-its-kind cycling challenge hopes to rally the public to conquer the equivalent height of Mount Everest by pedalling, while fostering support for ex-offenders in their journey to rebuild their lives. Proceeds from the fundraising will go to HCSA Highpoint Halfway House (HCSA Highpoint), a programme under HCSA, to support ex-offenders in their reintegration.

One of HCSA’s wider goals is to help reduce the recidivism rate in Singapore. According to the Singapore Prison Service, the five-year recidivism rate in Singapore currently stands at around 40 per cent. To reduce this number, HCSA Highpoint focuses on supporting ex-offenders to achieve longer term desistance with its programme and services. Through ‘Everesting for Second Chances’, HCSA aims to garner more awareness on the reintegration of ex-offenders, and facilitate a stronger network of support for them.

“At HCSA Community Services, we believe that every individual, regardless of their past, deserves a second chance. Everesting reflects the arduous journey of reintegration by ex-offenders which includes pushing physical limits and having mental resilience. By participating, we stand in solidarity together with them. With community support, our ex-offender friends are empowered to rebuild their lives and become valued members of society,” said Mrs Kim Lang Khalil, CEO for HCSA Community Services.

The challenge aims to raise $250,000 and at least 500 sign-ups. All participants are given six weeks to accumulate 8,848 metres in elevation gain. They may choose to complete this challenge indoors or outdoors, or a combination of both. To meet different fitness levels, participants have the option to either complete the full distance in a single ride, or in multiple rides, across the six weeks. To get started, participants simply need to use the STRAVA app, a GPS-enabled physical exercise tracking application.

Registration is open from now till 31 July 2023. There will also be an indoor physical event with up to 30 participants, organised on 1 July 2023 with Guest-of-Honour Assoc Prof Dr Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development. More details will be shared at a later date. For more information, please visit www.secondchances.sg.

6 Things To Know Before Taking Melatonin To Help You Sleep

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6 Things To Know Before Taking Melatonin To Help You Sleep

Everybody wants to sleep more soundly. Although you are aware that you should turn off your technology an hour before bed and even stretch, there are occasions when you require a little extra support. Melatonin may be a decent alternative if you’re looking for an over-the-counter sleep aid. Here is what experts say you should know before giving it a try.

Melatonin is a natural hormone

A healthy lifestyle is extremely dependent on getting a good night’s sleep. You might be tempted to take melatonin for sleep if you have trouble getting enough sleep at night. But did you know that your body already contains melatonin? The body’s pineal gland produces melatonin naturally, according to the Sleep Health Foundation. The pineal gland, which is about the size of a rice grain and is situated above the centre of the brain, is small.

Because the pineal gland is inactive throughout the day, levels of the hormone are hardly detectable. The pineal gland, however, “turns on” and starts to create melatonin as the sun sets, usually about 9 p.m. The effect is a rapid increase in the hormone’s blood levels and an increase in sleepiness. Before the dawn of a new day, when they return to low daytime levels, those blood levels remain raised for around 12 hours during the course of the night.

It’s not a cure for insomnia

The supplement can be used to address sleep issues, but it won’t help you stay asleep; it can help you fall asleep, but it’s not a cure for insomnia. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), jet lag, and managing sleep patterns for shift workers are a few problems that melatonin can help with.

There’s no reason you can’t continue taking the supplement for a very long time if you react favorably to it, but relying on it excessively could have adverse effects. According to sleep expert Dr. Andrew Westwood, it “can de-sensitize your receptors so they are no longer responsive to lower doses of melatonin.” Then, if you stop taking the supplement, you can have trouble falling asleep and need more and more of it.

There is no one recognised dose

Australian doctors typically prescribe melatonin in doses ranging from 0.5 mg to 5 mg. The most widely used preparation in Australia, according to the Sleep Health Foundation, comprises 2mg. Like naturally occurring melatonin, it has a gradual release form that lasts all night.

Effects are still up for debate

There are no immediate adverse effects of melatonin, but some people have headaches, nightmares, or lingering sedation the next morning, claims Dr. Sanjeev Kothare, an expert in sleep disorders. Because most trials have been conducted for short periods, frequently less than six months, Dr. Rowley continues, it is unclear whether there are long-term negative effects.

It might be harmful during puberty

The hypothalamus and pituitary glands, which are important in pubertal development, are just two of the areas of the brain and body that melatonin affects. A pediatrician should be consulted by parents regarding their child’s sleep issue. According to endocrinologist Dr. Brunilda Nazario, “the hormone is naturally reduced during puberty and changing this pattern with an unregulated compound and without supervision can potentially result in harm.” In order to help someone with sleep problems, it’s crucial to try and identify the cause of their lack of sleep and remove any contributing variables.

It’s not the only solution

Be aware that there may be an alternative to taking supplements to help you sleep before you do. In addition to practising excellent sleep hygiene, there are many treatments to assist in restoring regular sleep patterns. Dr. Nazario advises avoiding late afternoon or evening naps, avoiding stimulants that generate blue light (turn off those screens and place them far from your bed), and going to bed at the same time every night. She advises, “You might want to start with other natural remedies, like chamomile and hops tea or valerian root.”

Great Eastern Women’s Run returns full-scale to promote female wellness

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Great Eastern Women’s Run returns full-scale to promote female wellness

The 17th edition of the Great Eastern Women’s Run (GEWR) returns to full swing and registrations were launched on 24 May 2023 at Raffles Place by Ms Low Yen Ling, Minister of State, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, and Mr Khor Hock Seng, Group Chief Executive Officer, Great Eastern.

The 2023 event – which will be held on Sunday, 29 October at the Singapore Sports Hub – returns for the first time to full, pre-pandemic scale and will feature six categories of race activities, up from the four last year. The two additional categories are the 21.1km half marathon, as well as the 100m Princess Dash for three- to six-year-olds. They supplement the four categories from last year: the by-invite-only 21.1km half marathon for local elite runners, as well as the categories for members of the public of 10km, 5km, and the 2km ‘Mummy and Me’ run for ladies with daughters aged five to 12. Find out more about the Race categories and fees below!

Categories & Fees

  • Great Eastern Policyholder exclusive rate: Redeem promo code on Great Eastern Rewards app by 2 Oct
  • Great Eastern Rewards app users with GREAT Dollars: Redeem promo code on Great Eastern Rewards app by 4 Sep
  • Great Eastern Women’s Run 2022 loyal runners: Use promo code sent via email by 2 Oct

100M Princess Dash / 5KM / 10KM / 21.1KM Individual Categories

2KM Mummy + Me Categories

Click here to find out more about race categories and fees.

Race Entitlements

Receive amazing race entitlements when you register for the Great Eastern Women’s Run, including an Under Armour race t-shirt (worth $49) and an exclusive GEWR tote bag. Participants of the 21.1km category will also receive a Finisher t-shirt upon completion of the half marathon. The little ones who participate in the Mummy + Me category or Princess Dash category will also receive a kid’s race t -shirt. Upon completion of the run on the event day, all participants will receive a GEWR finisher medal.

Click here to view the race entitlements.

This year also sees an increase in competitive categories with more prize money being set aside to nurture local sporting talent. In addition to the 21.1km elite by-invite-only category, cash prizes will also be awarded to the top three finishers of the 21.1km and 10km local closed categories, with more than $18,000 of prize money to be given out.

Women leaders who ran alongside Minister of State Low Yen Ling were (from left): (1) Jennifer Wong Pakshong, Group Company Secretary & General Counsel for Great Eastern, (2) Cheryl Chen, Fundraising and Events, Senior Manager, Daughters Of Tomorrow, (3) Low Yen Ling, Minister of State, (4) Dr Choo Su Pin, Council Member, Singapore Cancer Society, and (5) Vanessa Lee, Team Singapore SEA Games runner. They were flagged off by (from left): Khor Hock Seng, Group CEO, Great Eastern, and Colin Chan, Managing Director, Group Marketing, Great Eastern.

At the launch event, Minister of State Low Yen Ling ran alongside representatives from Great Eastern, Daughters Of Tomorrow, Singapore Cancer Society and Singapore elite runner and SEA Games participant Vanessa Lee on treadmills to mark the official opening of the race’s registration, as well as the start of the fundraising campaign by Great Eastern’s employees and financial representatives. The runners were flagged off by Mr Khor, Great Eastern Group CEO. This display of solidarity fully exemplifies this year’s race slogan of ‘Start Strong, Finish Great’. For each kilometre the fundraisers clock between 24 May and 30 September, Great Eastern will donate $1 to the beneficiary organisations Daughters Of Tomorrow and Singapore Cancer Society. All race registrations during the Launch Event on 24 May also attracted a $5 donation from Great Eastern.

From left: (1) Cheryl Chen, Fundraising and Events, Senior Manager, Daughters Of Tomorrow, (2) Vanessa Lee, Team Singapore SEA Games runner, (3) Low Yen Ling, Minister of State, (4) Dr Choo Su Pin, Council Member, Singapore Cancer Society and (5) Jennifer Wong Pakshong, Group Company Secretary & General Counsel, Great Eastern.

Registrations are now open! Click here to sign up!

Khor Hock Seng, Group Chief Executive Officer, Great Eastern, said: “Every woman deserves a great run in life. The Great Eastern Women’s Run has been the game-changing race for generations of women through championing female wellness and bonding while motivating women to unlock their own versions of greatness. The run has also become a tremendous force for uplifting communities in Singapore. Over the next five months, our Great Eastern employees and financial representatives will fundraise actively for beneficiary organisations Daughters Of Tomorrow and Singapore Cancer Society, with the support of Community Chest.”

The funds raised will go towards programmes supporting underprivileged women in their back-to-work journey and helping cancer survivors to integrate into everyday life and to regain a strong sense of community and identity.

Support a Meaningful Cause

Great is caring for our community! As part of our efforts to give back to our community, Great Eastern Women’s Run adopts two charity organisations – Daughters Of Tomorrow (DOT) and Singapore Cancer Society (SCS), supported by Community Chest. Every bit counts! You may pledge a small donation of S$5, S$10 or S$40 during registration (no tax deduction). If you would like to contribute more, head over to SimplyGiving https://www.simplygiving.com/event/gewr2023. Donations of S$50 and above made via SimplyGiving are eligible for tax deductions.

Click here to register for the Great Eastern Women’s Run today!

Close Racing, Family Fun And Runners From All Around The World Characterise The 2023 Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon

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Close Racing, Family Fun And Runners From All Around The World Characterise The 2023 Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon

PHUKET, Thailand – Friends and families came together in Phuket for the 17th edition of the Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon this weekend which saw competitive racing, personal bests and lots of smiles. From young to old, over 6,000 runners from more than 43 countries took part in a weekend of tropical fun.

The change to having morning starts on both days this year saw many opting to compete on both days and a festival-like atmosphere at the finish line with food stalls and entertainment enjoyed by participants and spectators alike.

Day 1 (Saturday 10th, June) hosted the 2km kids run, 5km and 10.5km. Almost 250 kids enjoyed the 2km kids run in the green surrounds of Laguna Phuket and the first to cross the line in the male division was Julian Kloihofer from Thailand. Kawinthip Wongthawat, also from Thailand, crossed first in the women’s division.

Just two seconds separated the top two men in the 5km with Seung Ho Park (KOR) taking the win ahead of Sergei Zyrianov (RUS) in second while in the Women’s division it was Hayley Newman (AUS) who secured the win by almost a minute over Siena Milgate (AUS) in second.

It was another Korean runner who took the win in the Male 10.5km. Youngho Kim carved out a lead and held it to cross the finish line in a time of 35:23, ahead of Thai rival Aekkalak Jhankaeo. Mei Yan Wong from Hong Kong dominated the Women’s 10.5km with a convincing win by more than two minutes over second place finisher Kanika Chuaypet from Thailand.

Day 2 (Sunday 11th June) saw thousands of runners new and old converge at the start line at Laguna Grove where friendships were made and renewed, and camaraderie was high. With runners from all over the world lining up together, it was a clear sign that Phuket is back and open for all!

Out with the lead pack, Artem Sekachev (RUS) pushed the marathon pace early to create some separation between the leaders and the chasers. He then continued to turn up the pressure and by the 30km mark had a three minute lead which he further extended over the remaining distance to finish in a time of 02:51:10, more than five minutes ahead of second place finisher Waiwit Thongtae from Thailand. In the Women’s division, the racing proved much closer and it became a podium battle amongst Thai and Aussie runners. With just two minutes separating the top three at the finish line, it was Nuntaporn Tengamnuay who claimed the crown in a time of 03:38:33 ahead of Wannarat Jittiwuttinon in second.

In the Marathon Relay it was the Thai team “Team Three men and a little lady” who were the clear winners in a time of 02:50:39.

Little separated the runners in the Male Half Marathon. Sergei Zyrianov from Russia got off to a fast start and led from early on and although more conservative at the start Sota Maehara (JPN) built up his pace and was closing fast towards the finish. Unfortunately for him, there wasn’t enough track and Sergei Zyrianov held on to take the win in a time of 01:17:25 and Sota Maehara had to settle for second. In the Women’s division, Australia’s Hayley Newman out ran a tough field to finish with a winning margin of four minutes over second place finisher from USA, Lindsay Nickel.

Organised by GAA Events and internationally-certified measured run course by World Athletics (WA), the Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon is one of Southeast Asia’s favourite destination marathons and a qualifying event for the Boston Marathon. The dates have been set for 2014: The 18th Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon will take place on 8-9 June 2024.

Full results of the 2023 Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon are available at www.sportstats.asia.

Mass Participation Functional Fitness Event Hyrox Makes Debut In Singapore

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Mass Participation Functional Fitness Event Hyrox Makes Debut In Singapore

SINGAPORE, 13 June 2023 – After making a name for itself in Europe, North America and Australia, popular fitness racing world series HYROX lands in South-east Asia for the first time, making its debut on 7 October with a mass-participation indoor race at the Singapore National Stadium. Over 70 per cent of slots have been snapped up since registration opened just two weeks ago, guaranteeing an electrifying festival-like atmosphere, with over 4,000 participants and 2,000 spectators expected.

HYROX combines both running & functional workout stations, where participants run 1km and do 1 functional workout station. This is then repeated eight times. The eight stations are the SkiErg, Sled Push, Sled Pull, Burpee Broad Jumps, Rowing, Farmers Carry, Sandbag Lunges and Wall Balls.

The stations require functional movements frequently used in everyday life, ensuring that HYROX remains an appealing and easily accessible activity for people of all fitness levels, helping them complete daily activities more easily while feeling stronger. With the low barrier to entry, HYROX encourages everyone to get moving using the basic movements we use frequently in our daily lives.

HYROX is also the first and only mass-participation indoor fitness event that uses the exact same race format that is used all over the world.

The race format is as follows:

1.1KM Run9.1KM Run
2.1,000m SkiErg10.1,000 Rowing
3.1KM Run11.1KM Run
4.50m Sled Push12.200m Farmers Carry
5.1KM Run13.1KM Run
6.50m Sled Push14.100m Sandbag Lunges
7.1KM Run15.1KM Run
8.80m Burpee Broad Jumps16.75 or 100 Wall Balls

HYROX has 4 different categories for competitors to choose from. Whether participants are looking to take on HYROX by themselves in the Open or Pro category, share their experience with a teammate in the Doubles Categories, or split HYROX four ways in the Team Relay category, HYROX has a race for everyone.

The race categories are as follows:

  1. Singles Open – men’s, women
  2. Single Pro – men’s, women
  3. Doubles – men’s, women’s, mixed
  4. Relay – men’s, women’s, mixed

The different weights for each station in the respective categories can be found below:

The National Stadium has long been an iconic venue that has hosted multiple professional and community sports events, allowing different groups of people united by their love for sport to come together. With the fitness extravaganza taking place there, participants can gather with like-minded individuals while experiencing the thrill of competing in the iconic venue while being spurred on by family and friends in the 55,000-seater arena.

Hosted in the largest venue HYROX has ever been in, HYROX Singapore will become an iconic event in HYROX history. Gary Wan, HYROX APAC Managing Director, said: “We are excited to bring HYROX to Singapore this October and are looking forward to hosting HYROX at the Singapore National Stadium. This is something that will change the HYROX game entirely. We welcome everybody and every body to join us and come check us out that weekend.”

Yazed Osman, Singapore Sports Hub Group Head, Events and Placemaking, said: “We are pleased to host the first-ever HYROX event in Singapore, reinforcing our position as a global hub for sports, lifestyle and entertainment. Singapore Sports Hub remains committed to delivering new and exciting experiences for everyone, and we can’t wait to welcome all HYROX participants and supporters to the National Stadium this October.”

HYROX was launched in Germany, with 650 participants attending the inaugural event in 2017. It has since expanded into 17 countries with over 120,000 participants per year.

To help participants in Singapore prepare for the race, popular fitness franchise Body Fit Training (BFT) has also come on board as the official HYROX training centre. In addition to their existing progressive, science-based training programs, BFT will be adding HYROX-specific training programmes to their weekly programming at all open studios. HYROX athletes can become members of their local BFT and get best preparation available for the best possible preparation for their HYROX event.

Cameron Falloon, the founder of BFT, said: “BFT are very excited to announce this innovative partnership and feel that the BFT training system is uniquely positioned to be the perfect Official Training Partner
for HYROX and the many people that attend their events globally. We can’t wait to see the positive growth from this partnership for both brands, with HYROX participants training in BFT studios around the world, and our BFT communities participating in HYROX events.”

Registration is open at https://hyroxsingapore.com/event/hyroxsingapore. Participants have to be at least 16 years old to register. For more information, visit https://hyroxsingapore.com.

Young Athletes Shine at the Cold Storage and Giant Kids Run 2023, Inspiring a Healthy and Active Lifestyle

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Young Athletes Shine at the Cold Storage and Giant Kids Run 2023, Inspiring a Healthy and Active Lifestyle

[SINGAPORE, June 6, 2023] – The highly anticipated Cold Storage and Giant Kids Run 2023 took place on Sunday, June 4, at the picturesque Palawan Green in Sentosa. The event proved to be a resounding success, with thousands of young athletes showcasing their talents and embracing the joys of an active lifestyle.

Singapore’s premier kids-focused running event, organized by DFI Retail Group, provided a platform for children of all ages and abilities to discover the joy of running and embracing of a healthy and active lifestyle. It not only allowed seasoned child runners to compete and challenge themselves but also served as an introduction to the world of healthy and active living for first-time runners.

The atmosphere at Palawan Green was electric as thousands of attendees gathered to participate in the races and enjoy the exciting fringe activities. From the moment the starting gun fired, young runners displayed remarkable determination, speed, and endurance as they sprinted towards the finish line.

Runners warming up before their run
PHOTO CREDITS: DFI Retail Group

The event featured three race categories, each tailored to different age groups.

The Apple Girls and Pineapple Boys category, a thrilling 2km race for children aged 10-12 years old, witnessed fierce competition and impressive displays of athleticism. Koduru Usage Koduru Kalyani Charlotte emerged victorious with a stellar time of 8 minutes and 14 seconds for the girls’ race, while Ayden Tan claimed the top spot for the boys’ race in an impressive time of 7 minutes and 56 seconds.

The Strawberry Girls and Blueberry Boys category, a dynamic 1.6km race for children aged 7-9 years old, were won by Chlovette Yaw (7 minutes and 40 seconds) and Ren Takishima (6 minutes and 27 seconds) respectively.

There was also the yuu-Zu Family Run, an inclusive category open to all participants that saw families bonding and creating cherished memories through the joy of running together.

The winners from each category received hampers generously stocked with premium treats from Cold Storage and Giant, with a combined value of up to $400. These prizes served as tokens of recognition for the young athletes’ dedication and outstanding performances.

Event participants were treated to a slew of activities at the event held at Palawan Green Sentosa that included interactive activities and games
PHOTO CREDITS: DFI Retail Group

In addition to the exhilarating races, attendees were treated to a range of engaging fringe activities. Human claw machines provided interactive fun, while ZooMoov Animal Rides and balloon sculpting captivated the young ones, creating an unforgettable experience for families.

“We had loads of fun at the event! We participated in the yuu-Zuu Family Fun race, and the atmosphere was really chill – we half-strolled and half-jogged through the race. Both my kids enjoyed it very much, as well as the post-run activities and freebie snacks which Cold Storage, Giant, and their partners were giving out,” shared cybersecurity professional Sophie Leow, 30, who attended the event with her husband and two kids, Ethan (5) and Elina (2).

Haslam Preeston (DFI Director, Human Resources (Southeast Asia)), Michelle Vanstaden (DFI Group Store Change and Singapore Food Operations Director), Lee Yik Hun (DFI Marketing Director for Food and Own Brand, Southeast Asia) and Yoep Man (DFI Managing Director, Food) flagging off the first wave of runners at the Cold Storage and Giant Kids Run
PHOTO CREDITS: DFI Retail Group

Lee Yik Hun, DFI Marketing Director for Food and Own Brand, Southeast Asia, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, saying, “We are thrilled to have brought back the Cold Storage and Giant Kids Run for another successful year. This event not only celebrates active living but also inspires young children to lead healthy lifestyles. We are proud to be part of an event that encourages the next generation to discover the joy of running and embrace values such as perseverance, discipline, and determination.”

Giant and Cold Storage would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to all the sponsors, partners, and volunteers who contributed to the success of the Cold Storage and Giant Kids Run 2023. Their unwavering support and commitment helped create a remarkable event that promoted physical fitness, family bonding, and the pursuit of personal excellence. For more information about the Cold Storage and Giant Kids Run 2023, please visit the official event website at https://csgtkidsrun.com.sg/

Coway Run 2023 Welcomes Runners into the ‘Coway World’

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Coway Run 2023 Welcomes Runners into the ‘Coway World’

Since 2017, Coway Run has been a yearly run event suitable for families as well as competitive runners. To celebrate the 17th anniversary of Coway Malaysia, the company invites participants to enter its world. Giving participants the opportunity to view the world through Coway’s eyes.

Keeping in line with the company’s mission, “Change Your Life”, Coway aims to make participants’ lives better through its products and services, as well as its Coway Run.

Coway Run World has fun and interactive activities lined up for participants and their families. Over the past seven years, the Coway Run has continuously changed lives. Run Far, Help Wide is an initiative that donates RM10 from each ticket sold to the Coway Happy Water Project, an organization that helps communities in need access clean drinking water.

Event Information

Date: 10 September 2023
Venue: Dataran Merdeka
Categories: 5KM / 10KM / 21KM

Run Category

Coway Run breaks its own record and pushes boundaries this year after challenging a hybrid run (virtual and physical) in 2022.

There are three options for participants to choose from: a 5KM fun run, a 10KM competitive run, and an ALL-NEW 21KM half marathon. The 21KM half marathon will allow Coway Run to attract competitive runners as well as those who wish to challenge themselves.

To register and find out more, click here!

Run Kit

Coway Run 2023 welcomes you to a new world with a Coway Run Kit which includes a microfiber dry fit t-shirt, finisher t-shirt (only for 21km participant), official medal and tote bag.

Tickets Prices

Register within 96 hours and be one of the LUCKY 10 WINNERS to take home an exclusive Brooks voucher worth RM400!

Run Far, Help Wide

RM10 from every ticket sold will be contributed to Coway Happy Water Project, an aid to provide clean drinking water to communities in need.

Webpage: https://wejust.run/cowayrun2023
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialcowaymalaysia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CowayMalaysia
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CowayMalaysiaOfficial/videos
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialcowaymalaysia

To register and find out more, click here!

OCEANMAN Is Back In Malaysia After A 4-Year Hiatus

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OCEANMAN Is Back In Malaysia After A 4-Year Hiatus
  • This open-water swimming event gives Pulau Redang the recognition to host an international event for the first time
  • Organizers have promised a safe and secure race, including accident insurance, hydration and feeding points

KUALA LUMPUR, 1 JUNE – OCEANMAN has returned to Malaysian shores after a four-year hiatus, and it will be held in Pulau Redang – hailed as one of the most beautiful islands in the country from August 26-27, 2023.

OCEANMAN Redang 2023 also marks the first time an international event takes at this tropical island, known for its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, marine sanctuary park and a must-do for snorkelers and divers.

The picturesque island will be an ideal competitive backdrop for open-water swimmers as they enjoy the warm, clear waters and diverse marine life while journeying throughout the island to undertake their respective missions.

Asia-America OCEANMAN Manager Jose Luis Larrossa believes this event will mark the start of a successful chapter in Malaysia.

“OCEANMAN Redang opens a new door for open water swimmers in Malaysia. Since the end of 2018 OCEANMAN has been absent in Malaysia, and with this season’s event in the paradisiac island of Redang, we have very high expectations for this iconic open water swim event.”

“This opportunity will help worldwide swimmers to discover not only the wonderful clear waters of Malaysian East Coast but also their interesting culture, traditions, and amazing food. The aim is to turn OCEANMAN Redang into one of the top OCEANMAN destinations in the World,” he said.

OCEANMAN Redang 2023 will be divided into five race categories. They comprise of the Oceanteams (3x500m), Oceankids (500m), Sprint (2km), Half OCEANMAN (5km) and the marquee OCEANMAN (10km) race.

The categories are catered to all walks of life from beginners to seasoned competitors, which would make for a great spectacle with friends and families also joining in to make this a memorable weekend.

One of the reasons Pulau Redang was chosen as the venue is due to its reputation as one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in Malaysia. OCEANMAN Redang is now set to give the island a massive tourism boost by hosting the event there.

The island, which is situated on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, doesn’t just cater to ocean lovers but rather has a unique charm and tranquillity for anyone to relax and recharge from the demands of city life.

Apart from snorkelling and scuba diving, holiday goers can also immerse themselves in other activities such as jungle trekking, turtle watching, sunset watching, stargazing, batik crafting and even revel in the nightlife scene.

Pulau Redang is also a unique island where every resort offers full boarding, which includes transportation from the jetty and back.

OCEANMAN Redang comes as a tremendous opportunity for open-water swimming to grow in the country.

The sport is slowly gaining traction among Malaysians, with swimming open specialist Swimon playing their part by hosting monthly clinics and training.

By signing up for OCEANMAN Redang, participants will be able to forge new friendships with a wider network of open water swimmers while also benefiting from the sport’s health benefits, such as improved immune system, blood circulation and boosting brain power.

OCEANMAN Redang is aiming to draw as many participants as possible for this returning event.

Organiser of OCEANMAN Redang, Sundeep Kumar, said, “We know the interest of open water swimming is growing in Malaysia based on past experiences, and we were keen to bring this event back after a four-year hiatus. We couldn’t have selected a better venue than Pulau Redang, and we’re sure this island alone will be a massive attraction for the participants.”

“Our target is to get more entries than ever before. We currently have 350 entries from 30 different countries and are looking to break that record with more than 600 participants this time around. We hope this event will put Malaysia on the map as a premium location for hosting future OCEANMAN events in Asia and eventually on the global stage,” he also said.

“When it comes to open water swimming, the participants’ safety is our utmost priority, and we have taken every step to ensure that. This includes accident insurance for all swimmers, medical assistance, ambulance and first aid,” states Sundeep.

Tourism Terengganu expects OCEANMAN Malaysia’s presence in the state to not only boost the state’s tourism but also create awareness on open water swimming.

“OCEANMAN could not have selected a more suitable venue for this event. Pulau Redang is known as one of the most beautiful islands in Malaysia, and it will be an amazing experience for only not the swimmers but also their family and friends who are coming to support.

“Through this event, we are confident more Malaysians will be interested to take up open water swimming due to its various health benefits and opportunities to meet new people, we believe that this event will completely boost and expose Redang Island in Terengganu ad the best destination to explore, and we always welcome all to experience the beauty of Terengganu, it’s culture, places and people” Said The Honourable, Ariffin Deraman, as Terengganu State Tourism, Culture, and Information Digital Committee Chairman.

Can sleep deprivation lead to weight gain?

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Can sleep deprivation lead to weight gain?

Lack of sleep frequently encourages munching on calorie- and fat-rich junk food. The LIFE Centre at Singapore General Hospital (SGH) explains the connection between (lack of) sleep and weight.

Studies have revealed a clear connection between your body weight and how much sleep you get.

For an adult who should typically sleep 7-8 hours per night, studies have shown that sleeping less than six hours per day can result in bodily changes that encourage weight gain.

These changes are related to:

1) The hormones ghrelin and leptin, which control appetite​

Ghrelin and leptin are two hormones that control appetite. Leptin signals when you are full whereas ghrelin encourages hunger. Lack of sleep makes you feel more hungry and lowers leptin levels, which makes it harder for you to know when you’ve had enough to eat. A growing waistline is the outcome of the combined effects.

Lack of sleep has been shown to impact the body’s reaction to insulin, which can lead to a drop in leptin levels and further dull your internal satiety signals.

2) Modified brain activity linked to higher odds of making unhealthy food choices

Studies have revealed that lack of sleep can alter brain function, which can encourage consuming on high-calorie and high-fat foods. Foods high in fats and carbohydrates have been demonstrated to have a stronger effect on an exhausted brain. Eating junk food simply makes you feel more “shiok” when you’re sleepy.

A person who gets less sleep also has more time to eat and choose bad foods. In fact, research have shown that sleep-deprived individuals who are exposed to mouthwatering foods have a tendency to consume more of them than rested individuals, particularly at night.

When we are exhausted, our brain just consumes more calories than we actually require, and our capacity to control our impulses may also be compromised.

3) Plain fatigue, which reduces the willingness to engage in physical activity

Reduced physical activity has also been linked to long-term sleep deprivation. This is due to the fact that getting less sleep than the recommended 7-8 hours would probably make you feel exhausted and less motivated to exercise. You burn less calories due to this decrease in physical activity, which over time may result in weight gain.

According to studies, persons who are sleep-deprived spend less time playing sports and being physically active and more time engaging in sedentary activities like watching TV.

5 suggestions for promoting restful sleep to keep a healthy weight

  1. Every day, go to bed and wake up at the same hour.
  2. Keep moving and exercise regularly.
  3. Avoid taking naps during the day.
  4. Avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol before going to bed.
  5. Have a bedtime routine that aids in your relaxation.

35-Year-Old Yeo Boon Kiak Took The Crown in A 1-2 Finish At The 49km Elite TriFactor Bike Event 2023

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35-Year-Old Yeo Boon Kiak Took The Crown in A 1-2 Finish At The 49km Elite TriFactor Bike Event 2023

[28 May 2023] TriFactor Bike CycleRun returns to Singapore with an exciting new format and categories along Nicoll Highway, offering participants a thrilling experience on 7km of bike route and 5km of run route at the backdrop of Singapore city skyline.

35 Year Old Singaporean Yeo Boon Kiak took the elite 49km championship with a neck-to-neck finish time of 1 hour 12 minutes and 3 seconds, milliseconds ahead of GARETH CHUI and FRANCOIS BALLAND, who finished second and third, respectively. The Elite Wave category kicks off the event at 4am, featuring a criterium-styled 49km race that showcases high-speed cycling.

“We are thrilled to bring back TriFactor Bike CycleRun after a four-year hiatus,” said Joseph Tan, General Manager and Race Director of TriFactor. “This event showcases our commitment to promoting accessible and inclusive good health through sports. It offers a platform for athletes and fitness enthusiasts to challenge themselves, experience the thrill of racing, and build a strong sense of community.”

TriFactor Bike CycleRun introduces new categories such as the Bike-only race with individual and team options, including the first-ever TriFactor Bike Team 56km Relay. Ending with the new inclusion of the Foldies 21Km fun ride celebrates the versatility of foldable bikes.

Another exciting addition is the first-ever TriFactor Bike Team 56km Relay, aimed at promoting inclusivity and fostering team spirit. Cyclists have the opportunity to form teams and work together to conquer the challenging 56km course, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and friendly competition.

The event also welcomes the Foldie 21Km fun ride category, designed specifically for foldable bike enthusiasts, celebrating their passion for unique and compact cycling options. The Foldie 21Km fun ride promises a fun-filled experience while highlighting the versatility and accessibility of foldable bikes.

Elvin Ting, CoFounder of Orange Room. “This event showcases our commitment to promoting accessibility and inclusive good health through sports. TriFactor Bike CycleRun offers a platform for athletes and fitness enthusiasts to challenge themselves, experience the thrill of racing, and build a strong sense of community.”

TriFactor empowers individuals to reach their fullest potential by overcoming limitations. The event is organized by Orange Room in partnership with TriFactor, leveraging advancements in sports science and technology to promote self-actualization and positive impacts on all areas of life.

The Driving Force Behind Garmin Forerunner’s 20 Years of Innovation

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The Driving Force Behind Garmin Forerunner’s 20 Years of Innovation

Following the announcement of the newest Forerunner 965 / 265 recently, JustRunLah! had the opportunity to interview Mr Scoppen Lin, Assistant Regional Manager of Garmin Asia.

Runners in the community may be keen to learn more about the innovation that goes behind their smartwatches.

Mr Scoppen Lin is the Assistant Regional Manager of Garmin Asia. He took charge of the India and South-East Asia market from 2019 and subsequently, the entire Asia region for Sales and Marketing from 2022.

Under his leadership, Garmin Asia has successfully achieved an impressive 27% growth in revenue by Q3 of 2022. Mr Lin’s remarkable career journey, rising from an engineer to Assistant Regional General Manager, is an inspiring story of hard work, dedication, and success.

In recent years, Garmin has shown impressive growth in the industry, through their expanded product portfolio and constant innovation to cater Garmin products to a wider range of lifestyle users. Garmin has never failed to continuously innovate and bring solution-driven products into the market, specifically catered to its users. 

For instance, Garmin launched their newest and strongest Forerunner yet in April 2022. The newest Forerunner 965 is designed to help advanced runners, marathon and triathlon enthusiasts achieve their personal bests; with unique features such as proposing the ideal suggested training plan catered to the user – the plan proposed is based on the user’s past training, current fitness level and even an analysis of the user’s current health level. These unique features would effectively support a runner or triathlete’s training journey. 

1) What do you think separates Garmin from its competitors in the industry?

  • In terms of product hardware – manufacturing, quality and features

In terms of product hardware, we set ourselves apart through our commitment to manufacturing high-quality devices. We have a strong reputation for producing durable and reliable products that can withstand the demands of active lifestyles. Our devices often feature rugged designs, built-in GPS capabilities, and long battery life, which are particularly appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and athletes.

  • In terms of product software – development, quality and features

When it comes to product software, we invest in the development of advanced features and functionality. Our smartwatches and fitness trackers offer a wide range of tracking options for different sports and activities, including running, cycling, swimming, and more. We are known for our accuracy and reliability,
providing users with detailed and insightful data on performance and progress. Overall, Garmin’s commitment to quality hardware as well as advanced software features helps differentiate the brand from its competitors in the industry.

2) How does Garmin keep up with new developments and advancements in the ever-changing smartwatch industry?

Garmin stays at the forefront of the smartwatch industry by actively keeping up with new developments and advancements while investing in research and development to stay ahead of the curve and anticipate emerging trends. We closely monitor the evolving needs and preferences of our target audience, engaging with customers through surveys, focus groups, and social media interactions to gather valuable feedback.

3) What are some of the challenges faced by Garmin with the increasing competition from other Sports/Fitness/Lifestyle wearable brands? How does Garmin ensure that it continues to have a competitive advantage?

Garmin faces several challenges with increasing competition from other fitness wearable brands. First off, the market for fitness wearables is highly competitive, with numerous brands offering similar products. We need to differentiate ourselves from competitors and continually innovate to stay ahead. Also, as technology rapidly advances, we must keep up with new developments and incorporate them into our products. This requires significant investment in research and development to ensure the devices remain technologically advanced. Last but not least, consumer preferences and trends can change quickly. We need to closely monitor customer needs and preferences to ensure the products align with market demands.

In order to maintain a competitive advantage, Garmin employs several strategies. Product differentiation is one of our key strategies: we focus on creating specialised devices for people with active lifestyles, emphasising accuracy, durability, and reliability. By offering unique features tailored to specific sports or activities, we set ourselves apart from more generalised wearable brands. Aside from the active folks, there are multiple smartwatch ranges to cater to different lifestyles too. If the user is looking for a smartwatch with a feminine aesthetic , the Lily would be a great accessory to outfits; if combining function and fashion is preferred, we also have the Venu range where users can access a plethora of health data via the sleek design.

We also invest in research and development to constantly innovate and introduce new technologies and features in the products. This includes advanced sensors, improved tracking capabilities, and personalised training plans to meet the evolving needs of athletes. We also devote efforts heavily onto technology advancements. For instance, Garmin had utilised Firstbeat Analytics for more than a decade before acquiring the industry-leading physiological analytics companies in the world for our running and cycling
science.

Lastly, Garmin has built a strong and unwavering reputation for producing high-quality devices that deliver accurate data and withstand rigorous outdoor use. By staying true to our brand promise, Garmin maintains customer loyalty and trust.

4) What makes the Forerunner watch so popular amongst runners and triathletes from all over the world?

The Forerunner watch is popular amongst runners and triathletes worldwide for several reasons, one of which is attributed to the multitude of advanced tracking features found in the Forerunner units. Forerunner watches are equipped with advanced GPS and tracking capabilities, providing accurate data on distance, speed, pace, and route. This information is crucial for runners and triathletes to track their progress and improve performance.

Forerunner watches also allow users to customise their watch faces and data widgets according to their preferences. Additionally, they can connect their watches to smartphones and fitness apps for seamless data synchronisation and analysis. Beyond that, users are able to also enjoy a full suite of running specific products including heart rate monitors, Running Dynamics Pod and smart scale to understand their body better so that they are able to improve on their training.

The Forerunner is also able to offer advanced training metrics (personalised training plans, interval training, and recovery advisors, enabling athletes to optimise training and achieve goals) without sacrificing battery life; Forerunner 265 gets up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, while Forerunner 965 offers up to 23 days.

These smartwatches are known for their durability and water resistance, making them suitable for endurance activities. To ensure that our products can keep up with users’ vigorous training regimens, the products are put through diverse extreme tests to simulate real-life usage scenarios, including but not limited to low and high temperature tests, 10-bar stress tests, acceleration detection tests, altimeter tests, repeated drop tests, watch band wear cycle tests. The variety of tests would ensure that customers would experience superior product quality and build.

Lastly, the Forerunner range offers multisport functionality, allowing athletes to track various activities such as running, cycling, swimming, and more. This versatility appeals to individuals engaged in multiple sports or training disciplines.

5) How have Forerunner watches evolved in the last 20 years and how do you foresee that they will continue to be one of the most popular sports smartwatches going forward?

The Forerunner watches have evolved significantly over the past 20 years and will likely continue to be popular sports smartwatches going forward. We have made some key advancements in their design, tracking and performance metrics, integration with smart features, training and coaching capabilities, product ecosystem, and connectivity.

Firstly, we have focused on enhancing the design of the Forerunner watches. They have become sleeker, lighter, and more comfortable to wear, ensuring that users can wear them for extended periods without experiencing any discomfort.

Secondly, we have made significant improvements in the tracking and performance metrics of the Forerunner watches. We now provide detailed data on various metrics such as heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), VO2 max, cadence, stride length, training load, and more. These advancements empower athletes to gain deeper insights into their performance and make informed decisions about their training and progress.

Additionally, we have integrated smart features into the Forerunner watches. Users can now enjoy functionalities like smartphone notifications, music control, contactless payments, and app connectivity, providing them with a more comprehensive and convenient experience in their daily lives.

Moreover, the Forerunner watches now offer advanced training and coaching features. Users can access personalised training plans, receive real-time coaching guidance, and gain performance insights based on their individual goals and fitness levels. This helps athletes to train more effectively and optimise their performance in a tailored manner.

Furthermore, the Forerunner watches are part of a complete product ecosystem. Users can seamlessly utilise other Garmin products, especially when exploring other sports such as cycling. They can effortlessly sync their Forerunner watches with our Edge bike computers, creating a unified experience across their activities.

Lastly, we have expanded the connectivity options for Forerunner watches. They now have increased compatibility with other devices and platforms, allowing athletes to seamlessly sync their data with various apps, fitness communities, and online platforms. This comprehensive analysis and sharing capability enhance their overall training experience and engagement with the larger fitness community.

Exploring The Artistic Expression of Sports

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Exploring The Artistic Expression of Sports

At first glance, sports and arts may not have much in common. But look just a bit deeper, beyond the entertainment value of sports and the thrill of victory, and you’ll see there is an inherent artistry in sports that often goes unnoticed.

For one, sports and arts are the world’s universal languages. Both allow us to express ourselves in more ways than one (physically, emotionally, and often even intellectually and spiritually), and both enable us to communicate with each other regardless of our geography, language, and culture.

And then there’s the human body. A source of enduring fascination to artists across time and space, and an instrument to be used for movement, play, or fight in sports, the body is at the centre of both art and sports. After all, it is through the body-mind connection that we create and consume art and play and experience sports.

But the connection between sports and arts goes much deeper than this. And in this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the artistic expression found within the world of sports.

The Art of Sport

It is in human nature to try to push boundaries and test one’s limits. We do this in various ways, but no one embodies this effort, this motto of “faster, higher, stronger” more than athletes. Athletes explore and push the limits of human potential through sport, helping us reach new heights and gain new understandings of human physicality and psychology. And in many ways, art does the same.

Like athletes, artists explore and often push the limits of human potential or what it means to be human. Have you ever listened to a piece of music or a song that has made you cry? Seen a painting that has made you feel awe, a sense of sublime? That’s what good art does to our brains – it makes us transcend our understanding of the world and see and feel more of it.

Sports are no different. Watching the graceful movements of a figure skater, the way they use their seemingly superhuman fluidity and poise to convey a story or emotion can leave one stunned and in awe.

But it’s not just individual athletes who demonstrate how artistic sports can be. Team sports, like basketball, baseball, or football, can often show the beauty of collaboration and synchronization. The coordinated movements come together to create something akin to a choreographed dance.

Sport as an Inspiration

Sports have inspired countless works of art in various mediums. From paintings capturing iconic moments to films that delve into the human stories behind the athletes, artists have always found inspiration in the world of sports.

The sheer number of paintings, sculptures, and photographs depicting sports and athletes shows how many artists have found inspiration in sports throughout history.

To the ancient Greeks, the perfect body was an athletic body. This is why we have so many ancient sculptures depicting athletes and lean, muscular male figures. One of the earliest and most famous sculptures of this kind is Discobolus, attributed to the Greek sculptor Myron (480–440 BC). Then there are the numerous Greek vases depicting games, competitions, and all kinds of physical endeavours.

In more recent history, artists have painted football players (Henri Rousseau’s The Football Players from 1908), horse races (Edouard Manet’s The Races at Longchamps from 1876), cyclists (Umberto Boccioni’s Dynamism of a Cyclist from 1913), and more. Even modern online art galleries, such as Singulart, have sports collections showcasing a diverse range of sport-inspired artworks.

In the end, both sports and arts are about the expression of humanity. So next time you watch a game or attend a sporting event, take a moment to appreciate the artistic elements at play. The players’ movements and strategic play, the ebb and flow of a game, the tension and jubilation experienced by both players and fans – these are all artistic expressions of sports.

Bintan Triathlon Festival 2023

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Bintan Triathlon Festival 2023

A new destination event is added to the TriFactor’s Destination Tri Series, as it joins forces with BINTAN RESORTS and becomes the BINTAN TRIATHLON BY TRIFACTOR.

The Bintan Triathlon is set to be rebranded as Bintan Triathlon By TriFactor, thanks to a new partnership between organizers Bintan Resorts and TriFactor tri experts Orange Room.

And it’s not only the name that’s changing, with the partners announcing that new triathlon categories will be added to the lineup, along with a century ride the very next day for cycling enthusiasts.

The news, announced on the 23 May 2023 , will see the new event as an inclusive festival open to all triathlon enthusiasts, no matter their level of experience.

Trifactor, the foremost triathlon and endurance sports brand in Singapore, in collaboration with Bintan Resorts, is delighted to announce their partnership in revitalizing the Bintan Triathlon Festival. This exciting event guarantees a weekend filled with races and festivities suitable for the entire family. The triathlon will be held on the 21st of October 2023 and will feature various competitions, including the Sprint, Olympic, and Enduro distance triathlons.

Additionally, on Sunday, the 22nd of October, cycling enthusiasts can participate in the Century Ride, covering a scenic 100km route without encountering a single traffic light.

Signing of contract between Mr Abdul Wahab, Group Manager, PT Bintan Resort Cakrawala and Mr Elvin Ting Founder of Orange Room

Mr Abdul Wahab, Group Manager, PT Bintan Resort Cakrawala, shared his hope that mass participation sporting events such as the Bintan Triathlon can spark a revival in tourism.

“We want people to enjoy both tourism and do their sport at the same time. Bintan has always been the ideal spot for sports tourism, having been gazetted by the Indonesian government for the past decade to do so. We have always been known for sports tourism…. We want mass participants to come here and enjoy their sports with their families and their communities. Secondly, we want to cater to a wider demographic of people – not just to elite athletes but even the young and old who are entry level to enjoy sport and an active lifestyle.

The team here has worked hard over the past 20 years to put Bintan on the world map as a sports tourism destination, and it is our hope that as part of this revival effort, we can put it back where it belongs for the next 20 years.” 

In addition to the stellar lineup of events, Trifactor is proud to announce the signing of four ambassadors to represent the brand at the Bintan Triathlon Festival. These four ambassadors are Choo Ling Er, Arthur Tong, Elaine Young and Andy Wibowo. All four ambassadors bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Festival, having participated in and won numerous triathlon and endurance sports events.

Bintan Triathlon By TriFactor ambassadors: Elaine Young, Arthur Tong and Choo Ling Er
Bintan Triathlon By TriFactor ambassadors: Elaine Young, Arthur Tong and Choo Ling Er

Elvin Ting, Managing Director and Founder of Orange Room adds,

“At Trifactor, we believe that the power of sport can be used to bring people together and create lasting memories. We are excited to work with Bintan Resorts to bring this sporting festival to life and to continue our mission of inspiring athletes to push their limits. We welcome our new ambassadors and look forward to seeing them in action at the Bintan Triathlon Festival”

The Bintan Triathlon Festival is set to be the highlight of the Destination Tri series in 2023. With a lineup of world class athletes, an incredible course and a schedule of exciting events for the whole family, the Festival is sure to be an unforgettable experience for all who participate.  We look forward to seeing you there! 

The Festival will feature the following categories:

  • Sprint Distance Triathlon (750m Swim, 20km Bike and 5km Run), 
  • Olympic Distance Triathlon (1500 Swim, 40km Bike and 10km Run) 
  • Enduro Distance Triathlon (1500 Swim, 80km Bike and 20km Run).

Stay tuned for more information, at the TriFactor official website, www.trifactor.asia

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