We had 156 races in Singapore in 2015, with at least 1 race occurring almost every week – that shows how running is a popular culture in Singapore. While some may say that the races in Singapore are growing saturated, it is still no doubt that the local running community is still growing and more people are joining these races. And whether people are joining races or returning to races, are dependent on how well a race is organised. These are the 3 biggest running event organisers in Singapore, do you know them?
Explomo
Mostly known for: Run For Hope
Explomo Consulting Pte Ltd offers a full range of sports events management and consultancy services. They conceptualize, plan and execute sports events across all levels with their strong industry knowledge and passion. These attributes tailored successes like MINDSET Challenge (Vertical Marathon), HomeTeamNS-New Balance REAL Run, tHe Spring Live Active Run in Sarawak, as well as the first ever Green Corridor Run back in 2013, which was Singapore’s first run along the preserved railway track. Their solutions are customized in accordance with customers’ business objectives, and delivered by a team of experienced event organisers, specialized in their own fields.
Infinitus
Mostly known for: Great Eastern Women’s Run
Infinitus is an event design house that specialises in challenging limits. They create events that help individuals push their own boundaries and discover a sense of infinity within themselves. Backed by theirr years of experience and technical expertise, Infinitus formulates large-scale activities that take participants on an exhilarating new journey everytime. Some events under their belt include the recent Illumi Run and the upcoming RUN 350.
Orange Room
Mostly known for: Tri-Factor Series
The Orange Room is a Singapore-Based events company set up in 2006 that was built upon the success of its sister company, The Swimming Room. The dynamic team comprises of energetic athletes & professionals that have combined expertise in the various event management sectors such as sports, Leisure, entertainment and media.
An acronym of their name also describes the services they offer:
O : Organized your scope and objectives
R : Realize the details and any potential impediment
A : Analyze the overall schedule, resources and scope
N : Negotiate for the absolute best cost for our clients
G : Galvanize the implementation plan with style timely
My valentine’s day morning is a run with fellow runners and making new friends. Singapore’s running community is nice, I think it is because Singapore is small, we always see many familiar faces at the running events and it is like every runner will know another runner somehow.
This was a running event organised by Gei Gei Running Club, and it is free. Running is free. You can run barefoot, and even naked but don’t say I never warn you that the police will catch you. ^^ It is a choice if you want to invest in a running gear. In life, everything is by choice. It is interesting when people say they have no choice, it is your choice to choose no choice as a choice, so no choice is your choice.
It was a 7.88km run for me starting from UOB plaza to Marina Barrage and then back. Respect the guy who cosplay himself as the Monkey King, wear so much for a run and can tahan the hotness. Just nice in evening I also went to watch the movie Monkey King, can say the cosplayer in the morning really got do homework, very good imitation of the Monkey King and super energetic.
I enjoyed myself as I got no expectation for this run because it is a fee-less run and I can just say that I’m grateful for the volunteers, photographers, organisers and the sponsors for the food and drinks. It take really a lot of effort.
It’s nice meeting runners all over Singapore. Can’t help but think that every runners have a reason to why they run. We run to lose weight, we run to keep fit, we run because of the endorphins, we run because we have time, we run because we want to run away from our problems, we run because we just simply love running.
It has been a week since we launched our new website. It comes with a modern and cleaner layout, more user-friendly tools and seamless browsing for our readers. We hope you like the new look as much as we do! Here are some features of the website which you may find useful:
We are adding the buzzing Indonesia, Japan and Hong Kong running scenes to your reach. Likewise, good news for all triathletes! Searching for Asia Pacific triathlon races has never been easier. We have listed 44 upcoming triathlon races in APAC, and there will be more to come.
Always wanted to join a running club but don’t know where to find a comprehensive list for all the running clubs in Singapore? Whether you are a Singaporean runner, or an expat who is looking for new running buddies, a running club is the perfect way to get those legs running! JustRunLah now has a detailed listing of all the 39 running clubs of Singapore. You may filter by location or type and explore your potentials.
A comprehensive listing of all the sports stores in Singapore. There are 157 of them to cater to your active needs and demands. You may filter through apparels, shoes, equipment and nutrition by the sports category and location to your preference.
A small tip for all our readers: Click on More on the toolbar above to gain full access to the functions of our website such as deals, training tips and race database! There is so much to offer on the new website – have fun exploring!
For the past two decades, HomeTeamNS REAL Run™ has been providing one of the best multi-terrain foot race experience for running enthusiasts all over the world. This year, the organising committee aims to enhance the experience with a new adrenaline-pumping Obstacle Challenge (Lifesavers Route), in addition to the multi-terrain run (Protectors Route).
5KM/10KM Multi-terrain Run (Protectors Route)
Since its humble beginnings, the multi-terrain 5km and 10km routes has been a must-join for runners in Singapore. Dubbed as the “Ultimate Running Experience”, REAL Run’s combination of Road, Trail and Sand will excite runners who are looking for an extra challenge through winding trails, slopes, asphalt and energy-sapping sand. As you run through the different terrains, you can also expect to enjoy the different sights of Sentosa Island.
If you love new challenges and love obstacle races, you must join this year’s REAL Run! Traditionally, regulars, NSFs and NSmen will have to complete obstacle courses as part of their training before they take on roles such as Police officers, Firefighters or even Paramedics in the Home Team. This year, REAL Run brings to you first-of-its-kind modified obstacle challenge that gives you a taste of the HomeTeamNS experience.
Run With The Best Of Home Team
On top of the obstacles, you will get to join the ranks with some of Home Team’s elite forces. Run with the very best of Home Team to challenge yourself and have a taste of the power and strength of the people who protect our country everyday!
Sign up here now for the ultimate running experience at HomeTeamNS REAL Run™!
A professional physiotherapist, Jenny Huang is a mother of 2, and also an avid ultramarathoner who is fairly well-known in the running community in Singapore. She was a “late bloomer” who’d only taken up running after her two children started schooling, she became the fastest woman in the 2013 Sundown Ultra Marathon, clocking an impressive 10:38 performance for her first 100km endurance race. Watch the above interview where Jenny shares with us her interpretation of Transcend Yourself and some running advice, as an ambassador leading up to The Performance Series.
Know more about her story here:
Something you may not know about me
I grew up fully Taiwanese, rooted in Taoyuan, Taiwan, spoke fluent Mandarin and Taiwanese until age 7. I went to preschool and kindergarten and got my hand swatted for missing marks on exams (I hated exams). I watched Xiao Fei Xia almost every night. I had my first boy crush on a cartoon character number 1. LOL. He still is cute.
My transcend story
After moving to Singapore 13 years ago, I added running to my daily routine once kids went to school; it brought about this new level of understanding in pushing the body, the mind, and the heart. I love being able to go beyond what is considered ‘normal’ and knowing that whatever is worth your time does not come easy. And above all else, I love running alone. Transcendence to me is self-reliance and self-discovery.
“It is easy in the world to live after the world’s opinion; it is easy in solitude to live after our own; but the great man is he who in the midst of the crowd keeps with perfect sweetness the independence of solitude.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
One friend with the greatest transcend in person through running.
Claire Lacour, who was a client and now a friend. She is a beautiful 27 year old who inspires me with her commitment and focus for any upcoming marathon. She has control over her body, her pains, and plans on training through sheer determination, wit, and patience. She is the warmth and happiness of sunshine mixed in with a bit of hurricane.
The Performance Series (TPS) – Singapore, is a series of five races that brings runners through unique iconic landscapes of Singapore. The venues have been chosen so to comprise of oasis/island, lake, heartland, reservoir and farm settings.
Through the series, individuals, families and communities will have an opportunity to advance, excel and experience the joy of living better through running. With this series we aim to create a national movement for running and healthy lifestyle. Will you be part of it?
TPS consists of 2.5km, 5km and 10km races, as well as a stairs race.
MacRitchie Reservoir is one of the top and most well-known running routes in Singapore, ran by many running enthusiasts, trail runners, and nature lovers. But as the Land Transport Authority of Singapore (LTA) plans to enhance the connectivity of the public transport system in Singapore, it seems inevitable for this precious natural habitat to be involved in the development works.
What is The Cross Island MRT Line (CRL)?
The Cross Island MRT Line (CRL) will be the eighth Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) line in Singapore. Spanning across Singapore, the CRL is approximately 50 km in length and is targeted to complete by around 2030. It is currently under planning and evaluation.
The line will begin from Changi, passing through Loyang, Pasir Ris, Hougang, Ang Mo Kio, Bukit Timah, Clementi, West Coast before terminating at Jurong Industrial Estate.
It will provide commuters with another alternative for East-West travel to the current East-West Line, bringing greater comfort and significantly shorter journey times. The eastern leg of the CRL will also include a segment that extends into the centre of Punggol. Residents in Punggol will be able to travel to Pasir Ris – a popular and much demanded travel route – in only 10-15 minutes, compared to a 40 minute bus journey today.
Construction through the MacRitchie Forest
Since LTA announced the plans for CRL in 2013, several nature groups have stepped up to express concern about the environmental impact of the line possibly being built through the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.
The reserve, which encompasses the MacRitchie, Upper and Lower Peirce and Upper Seletar reservoirs has about 400 species of trees, 200 species of birds, 400 species of insects and 150 species of mammals and amphibians, according to a 2014 report released by some of the nature groups.
Straw-headed Bulbul | Photo credits: Love Our Macritchie Forest
Nature Society (Singapore) council member Tony O’dempsey said: “We have a zero-impact policy as a starting point. The reason why we have this policy is that every time we do something in a nature reserve, you create an impact that is long-lasting.”
“We can’t always measure what those impacts are accurately, and we don’t like to take the risks. So every impact that occurs, no matter where in the nature reserve, different projects, different times, will accumulate.”
Alternative to Alignment of the MRT Line
Pending more baseline information on ground conditions near the reserve, LTA is open to both of two possible alignments for the part of the MRT line around the area of the reserve – one cutting straight through the reserve and the other skirting around it as recommended by nature groups.
The final alignment of the MRT line will be decided, taking into consideration the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), along with factors such as connectivity, travel time, cost and impact on home- or land-owners in the area.
Ex-Conservation Manager of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Joey Gan, “the impact of noise and smell on forest inhabitants can never be fully understood or quantified in an EIA. Even with mitigation measures in place, it is a nearly impossible task to enforce these measures on a daily basis. Furthermore, works are required to be done around the clock, and this only exacerbates the situation.
Impact on Wildlife
There is a high number of animal species near the alignment option that cuts beneath the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. Most animals will be able to move far away enough from the noise generated by drilling rigs and other machines, but concerns remain over some creatures such as the lesser mousedeer, slow loris, colugo and pangolin.
Lesser Mousedeer | Photo credits: Love Our Macritchie Forest
Critically endangered Pangolin | Photo credits: Straits Times
The mousedeer, slow loris and critically endangered Sunda pangolin have distinct home ranges, and movement away from the noise or human activities “may potentially bring such fauna into territorial conflict such as increased competition for food and shelter, particularly in a highly fragmented habitat”, stated the EIA (Phase One).
A Natural Heritage, A National Treasure
Photo credits: Singapore Slinging
The CRL will definitely enhance the connectivity of our local transport system. But is the improved accessibility within this island significant enough to compromise on the limited natural green space we have left? Macritchie is home to one of the largest patches of primary rainforest and lowland swamp forest. Environmentalists would agree it is best to keep a zero impact on the natural habitat, and allow the nature reserve to fulfill its purpose for the conservation of wildlife.
While the CRL will increase the accessibility and convenience of Singapore’s public transport system, the realisation of its plans should take into consideration the impacts on the natural landscape. What are your takes on this?
We had 156 races in Singapore in 2015, with at least 1 race occurring almost every week – that shows how running is a popular culture in Singapore. While some may say that the races in Singapore are growing saturated, it is still no doubt that the local running community is still growing and more people are joining these races. And whether people are joining races or returning to races, are dependent on how well a race is organised. These are the 3 biggest running event organisers in Singapore, do you know them?
Hivelocity
Mostly known for: Sundown Marathon
Hivelocity is run by a group of people who are passionate about inspiring athletic lifestyles and inspirational sporting experiences. From their years of experience organising sports events, they offer deep expertise in sports event planning, management and execution. They have a platform – 1XCESS – for online mass registration and payment, race timing and results hosting. On the other hand, they also have Black Dot, another subsidiary that takes care of event marketing and public relations, sponsorship management.
Pink Apple
Mostly known for: 2XU Compression Run
Pink Apple is passionate about bringing ideas together and conceptualizing them to outdo all expectations. They believe in amplifying the experience of the event to everyone else involved – be it as a partner or as a participant. Their experience in races varies among different concepts, including novelty races such as Hello Kitty Run, and the gruelling Asia’s largest trail running series The North Face 100.
MetaSport
Mostly known for: MetaSprints Series
MetaSport has its roots in triathlon, providing expert coaching to individuals and groups of all levels, from absolute beginners to high performance athletes competing at world championship events. It has since expanded to event management with the launch of the first Bintan Triathlon, which has since become one of Asia’s iconic triathlon events. In fact, MetaSport is now a leading sport management company in Asia with its head office in Singapore and operations in Singapore, Hong Kong and Indonesia.
Worthy of the claim Singapore’s top long distance runner, Soh Rui Yong had impressed us time and again with his accomplishments the past 2 years.
He has taken on the role as an ambassador for OSIM Sundown Marathon 2016, and is using this platform to inspire the local running community that running is limitless. JustRunLah! had the opportunity to sit down with Soh as he shared with us about running.
One problem you find in most runners?
One solution you suggest?
“Over-training. To address the issue, try to speak to a coach or advisor to get an input from an external party. Because as runners, it is in our nature to push past our boundaries. I always want to do more – if I ran 24K today, I want to run 26K the next week. If I ran a 160K this week, I want to run a 180K next week.”
“It is very easy for us to cross the red line between hard training and overtraining. And that’s why a coach is needed to push what you need to push and hold back what you need to hold back. As runners, we often go past that red line, and that’s what makes us marathoners. We do something the human body is not naturally inclined to do.”
Gosh how unprepared were we for a real messy and muddy trail run, but how much fun was it to get messy and muddy just like kids.
I’ve been wanting to explore the Green Corridor with my 7 years old girl for some time and Compressport’s trail run gave us the incentive by organising a 5km category. Perfect length for my girl with double the benefits. She got to experience the ruggedness of the Green Corridor whilst receiving a finisher medal to remember the event.
With a reasonable flag-off at 9.30am for us non-morning people, we huddled into the starting pen just in time to see the first 10km racers passing through their halfway mark.
Fourth runner crossing the halfway mark.
Taking off 5 minutes earlier than the scheduled time we shuffled our way through the starting line and merged with the 10km participants. It was a little tight on such a narrow route given the thousands of participants making it a little difficult to start running immediately.
Funneling our way through the Start line.
Just as we were able to get ourselves going, within a kilometer we passed beneath one of the overhead bridges to find ourselves stuck behind numerous runners just standing still, unsure of what was happening ahead. We didn’t account for the mini-pond that was as wide as the running path and possibly as long as 15m (I could be dreaming this but I don’t think so). Ah what to do? We wore old runners but we weren’t particularly prepared to get wet, muddy and squishy shoes so early in the race and the look of horror on Trinity’s face was the deciding factor to attempt to circle the pond on the minuscule amount of surface left to tread. Just like everyone else except for the 10km gung ho runners who’ve been dealing with this surface for 6km already and just no longer cared about how filthy they were going to get. They barreled their way through the pond splashing everyone in sight.
What’s the hold up?
Ah yep got it. A pond.
Skirting the pond with Trini.
I spent most of the race telling Trini it’s okay to get muddy, don’t worry about your runners getting dirty, enjoy the messiness of this race, have fun with this experience. Phew, on and on it went. John and I enjoyed it but we’re not convinced that Trini did the same. She did however, enjoy the Green Corridor and kept asking about the old railway bridge which unfortunately, I had to tell her it was in the opposite direction. Looks like we might have to go out another time before the Corridor closes mid-year so she can experience the railway bridge across Bukit Timah Road.
We spent pretty much the entire race dodging puddles, turned up mud piles or getting around runners who were trying to keep their runners as reasonably clean as possible (good luck to that).
Tackling the muddy route.
A much needed rest.
Respite from mud.
Trini found this race very tiring when compared to the road races she’s used to. So much weaving and dodging, trail route instead of road route and of course the distance was wearing on her legs and cardio fitness. However as we were nearing the end we took her by her hands and sprinted our way to the finish line.
Looking for green dry land.
Family click.
With all the dried up mud on our clothes, legs and feet we figured we’d be better off getting on a bus home instead of a taxi. We didn’t think any taxi driver would appreciate dry mud in his car. Along with fellow filthy racers we boarded Bus 10 and made our way home, looking forward to a long hot shower and scrubbing ourselves clean.
It was a fun event. I wouldn’t intentionally seek out muddy races but if the situation presents itself unbeknownst to me, I’m always happy to embrace the experience and just roll with the punches. Just like we did with this race.
Finisher medals make everything so much better.Historic Tanjong Pagar Railway Station.
Effectively, I have 25 days to get myself in shape and in condition for Powerman Malaysia 2016. The Powerman is an duathlon event consisting of a 10km run, 65km bike another 10km run for finishing off.
Termed Asia Duathlon Championships, it is a race for potential duathletes and triathletes in Singapore and Malaysia to gauge their fitness level.
Today, I am weighing at 81kg, I have untouched bike mileage and insufficient run mileage. Despite these, I am looking forward to the trip with a group of like-minded buddies and most importantly, a chance to challenge myself to get back to racing competitively.
As I embark on my pursuit of passion, I have realised these 3 things:
1. Change
My body has changed. My time to improve and duration of recovery are visibly longer than when I was in my twenties. As a competitive individual, this change is frustrating. But this has also made me appreciate the need to have consistency in my training so that I may maintain my desired level of fitness.
2. Balance
Family vs work vs self-interest
Twenties: Less responsibilities, more time, more training and racing commitment.
Thirties: More responsibilities, less time, less training and racing commitment.
As a father/entrepreneur/athlete, striking a balance is challenging when you have multiple commitments. The key is to find the momentum to get you going, and never lose that momentum.
3. Passion
If you drag yourself to complete a task, it is work. If you happily finish the task, it is passion. If you know what is your passion, never let that flame in you die out. Always pursue your passion and your life will be a fulfilling one.
At 35, change is inevitable. And as I pursuit my passion in competitive sports, embracing change is simply part of the process. Positive and negative consequences are a form of balance I constantly need to strive and be sensitive about.
“There is no greater thing you can do with your life and your work than follow your passions – in a way that serves the world and you.” – Richard Branson
This was the second race for the new year after last year’s 24 challenges. I just completed the NUS Bizad Charity Run the Saturday before and improved last year’s timing by just over 2 minutes (of course still at my old man’s pace). So this was the second race in the first month of the new year, promoted as a trail and heritage event. The trail would be closed later this year so this was the second last race (the last one being the Green Corridor Run in March). (A new underground waterpipe line to meet future water demands in the city will be constructed. About half of the 22 km pipeline from Murnane Service Reservoir will be laid underneath the lower half of the Rail Corridor. Construction work is expected to commence in first half of 2016 and complete by 2019.)
I collected the race entry pack on the first day at Funan DigitaLife Mall Atrium and the queue snaked out of the building. I had to wait for 1.5 hours but the collection itself was done within 5 minutes. The queue was probably due to the collection of additional items for those who had requested for it. Perhaps there should be a different queue to allow the majority to collect theirs more efficiently.
The queue …
The Race Entry Pack
I had done the Green Corridor Run last year so I thought I was prepared for running on crushed stones and maybe a bit of mud too, given the rainy interludes the past days before. However just 4 days before the race, I caught a bad bout of flu so I had sore throat, running nose, cough, body aches and fever. I prayed I would recover because this was only the second one in the year and didn’t want a DNS. On Sat night, I popped my Panadol and went to sleep. I woke up, no more aches, no fever, not perfect but recovered enough to run. I promised to listen to my body and just enjoy the run. I took the public transport to the starting point near Bukit Timah. The website did mention about possibility of some shuttle service being arranged but guessed the public transport was ‘convenient’ enough in the end though there was no further follow-up on that. And then I saw the queue again (to starting point, bag deposits and the toilets).
Getting to Start Point
From MRT to Bt Timah
Deposit Bags
I joined the bag deposits queue and skipped the camera taking and toilet queues. I was early (or so I thought), and went to join the group of folks at the starting point but was at the back. The guards were strict, no, no, there were too many people in the wave. I squeezed through. Then it was time to start. We moved but then was stopped. Turned out I was in the second wave. No matter, we waited for about 3 minutes and then we were off. But the crowd was picking their way gingerly through the muddy ground. So it was run, stop, run. Since I was still recovering, this suited me fine at the beginning.
Credit : David Tan (Me in Blue)
The hydration points were adequate, I came across two. Then around 6 km mark, we came to this big jam where a huge mass were just making their way ‘painfully’ across what looked to be a big big puddle. I couldn’t really see as I was far behind. But on the left was a drain, and some runners were astride the drain and made their way across, then some went up the hill and I guessed down the other side to skip the muddy ‘pond’ of water. After quite a few minutes and I seemed to be not making much headway behind the huge crowd, I decided to step right into the drain, and the water reached up the calves. Since my shoes were already wet, I then ran across the mud near the middle. I heard some squeals (of dread or encouragement ?). But I thought after that, a few folks followed too. Then adrenaline pumping, I picked up pace and ran across more mud, shoes squishing through. I did wear an old pair learning from the past experience with dirt trail.
Credit : David Tan (Big Puddle)
Credit : Running Shots
Reached the finishing point within my target time of 1.5 hour, gulped down two cups of Gatorade and collected the medal. And met a running enthusiast, friend from FB, and we took a wefie. After collecting the bag (and smartphone), I took a few more pictures of runners at the finishing point and thought I also saw Jenny Huang (ultramarathoner and super mum). Looked like big families of runners gathered happily at one venue on that Sunday morning.
Overall, enjoyed the run. A different trail run from last year when the terrain was dryer and where there were more stones and pebbles than mud and water. Took longer than my PB, but nonetheless enjoyable muddy trail run. Hope weather and body holds for next trail run. But before that, it would be the half marathon.
(Note : Most were my shots but the beautiful ones are from friends : Photo credits to Lim Boon Tiong, Running Shots, Mythos Photography, FB friends, friend of friends)
350 refers to the recommended parts per million of carbon in the atmosphere that scientists believe is de rigueur for the Earth’s sustainability as we know it. Today, this number is around 400ppm. We have hit a climate milestone, as this is the first time in 800,000 years that the level hit 400ppm.
In recent years, more focus has been placed on the pressing issue of climate change as the globe starts seeing its tangible effects. One run aims to take the awareness to another level by inspiring Singaporeans to take action now. NTUC Income RUN 350, organised by Young NTUC, encourages participants to Run For A Greener Future, and is introducing more green initiatives in 2016 to educate and harness the strength of the masses to do our part to combat climate change.
Here are 3 reasons to join NTUC Income RUN 350 2016:
1. Gather with Singapore’s active community for a joint effort for a greener future.
In the last century, Carbon Dioxide (CO2) levels have increased at an alarming rate from decade to decade,we need to reduce our emissions and take climate action before more damage is done to our planet. RUN 350 incorporates green practices in organising this run which includes encouraging runners to bring their own water bottle, going paperless by not printing confirmation slip, using recycled metals for its medals and waste recycling.
One key initiatives during the event is the Utility Challenge. To take part, registrants simply need to bring along a copy of their most recent utility bill when collecting their race pack. Those whose bill reflects usage that is under the national average for their household type will receive a cash voucher from NTUC FairPrice, limited to the first 1,000 participants.
2. New category – Fun On Wheels
This is an initiative to increase awareness that everyone can do their part to reduce carbon emissions and that includes taking environmentally friendly transport options. Participants of this category will cycle, in-line skate or kick-scoot through a 4km route, showcasing the ease and availability of environmentally friendly transport options. This can be a great way to educate young kids on environmentally friendly transport options and let them know how they are helping to make the environment a better place.
3. Do our little part for the home we live in
Even though we may not see the effects of climate change or environmental problems directly in an urban city, it does not mean that we can turn a blind eye to climate and environmental issues. We have seen how forest fires in neighbouring countries gave us haze the past few years, while Beijing had its air pollution problems throughout the year and Australia had its forest fires to worry about. Singapore may be a small country, and can affect limited change over what happens all over the world. But every little effort counts and we can all do our part to make earth a better place to live in for ourselves and our future generations.
Sign up here now to make a difference together with other runners at NTUC Income RUN 350 2016! Registration ends on 29 Feb 2016 – Limited slots available!
Gold Coast is one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations known for its sunshine, golden surf beaches, beautiful broadwater, popular restaurants and cafes, exciting theme parks and accommodation for all budgets. The Gold Coast Airport Marathon is Australia’s premier road race and was the first marathon in the country to hold an International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Road Race Gold Label. It is also Singaporeans’ favourite overseas marathon and here are some reasons why:
Run/Achieve your personal best at a scenic course
The marathon course runs next to the Gold Coast’s surf beaches and the Broadwater and has a reputation as one of the flattest and fastest courses in the world. The weather conditions in July on the Gold Coast are great for running. There is low humidity, little or no wind in the morning and mild temperatures. It is ideal for Singaporean runners who are striving for a personal best time.
Spectator support equals ‘Runspiration’
The Gold Coast Airport marathon is known for its large, enthusiastic crowd support. Their loud and inspiring cheers provide “Runspiration” to many runners. Be inspired and motivated throughout the race as the supporters cheer you on through to the finish line!
Experience Australian fun after the race
Enjoy the Gold Coast’s easy-living lifestyle with plenty of sun, surf and sand. For runners who love nature, the world heritage-listed rainforests are just a short drive away, and you can also get to cuddle a koala or hand-feed kangaroos. Gold Coast also boasts many other amenities and activities for tourists, ranging from great restaurants and cafes, entertainment hot spots, winery tours, whale watching excursions, broadwater cruises, health spas, world-famous golf courses and the latest in fashion for the shoppers.
Direct flights to Gold Coast
With direct flight from Singapore to Gold Coast, runners can get to run a world-class race with great weather and lovely scenery in just under 8 hours. This makes for an easy getaway especially for runners who are working or have a family. There are also travel packages available at affordable rates, which include:
Return airfare on Scoot
3/5 nights stay at the Grand Chancellor or similar
Race date: 1st May 2016 (Public Holiday) Borneo, Sabah, Malaysia Distances: Marathon, Half-marathon, 10 km
The Borneo International Marathon is a notable marathon on the South East Asian marathon calendar that attracts runners from far and wide. Undoubtedly, Borneo is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Malaysia and the race is held along the scenic coastal roads of Kota Kinabalu. In fact, the Borneo International Marathon is even dubbed “The Beautiful Run” among runners. Happening on a public holiday Labour Day, Borneo International Marathon is the race for Singaporeans looking for a unique sensation of marathon experience blended with awesome sightseeing and scenic exploration.
In the course of the marathon trip, you can set aside a special time and take a tour of some of the nature trails that Malaysia has to display. Your first stop can be Kudat, a tourist hot spot featuring stilted building and unique fishing boats. Seafood lovers are going to love Borneo for its cheap and good seafood. You may also revive your marathon adventure by hiking the rainforest trails in Sabah.
If you love nature and wild game, you can pass through Palau Tiga Park. The National Park buzzes with a variety of animals that you would not fail to love. Get a deeper insight of nature by taking a tour through the Poring Hot Springs.
Laguna Phuket Marathon
Race date: 5th June 2016 Phuket, Thailand Distances: Marathon, Half-marathon, 10.5 km, 5 km, 2 km Kids Run
Well organised, appropriately planned, and widely anticipated, thousands of people will be traversing Phuket in one of the most historical Marathons. You will get to tread through what is supposed to be one of the most glorious Asia’s cities. Meet with over 6,000 different people from more than 60 nationalities and share the glorious moment of traversing local villages, pineapple plantations, and rubber fields.
Besides the high-spirited flexing of muscles, this International marathon presents you with the opportunity of exploring the magnificent town of Phuket. Grab the opportunity to explore the glorious Phuket town boasting of architectural designs of Chinese Immigrants. In the land of smiles, you can further experience the Thai culture by enjoying what it is famous for – food, massage and its people’s hospitality.
Angkor Empire Full and Half Marathon
Race date: 7th August 2016 (Public Holiday) Angkor Wat, Cambodia Distances: Marathon, Half-marathon, 10 km, 3 km
Introduced in 2014, the Angkor Empire marathon is the first full marathon in Cambodia. The race is situated in Angkor Wat, which is a temple complex and the largest religious monument in the world. You will get to run through some breathtaking scenery including some of Cambodia’s ancient temples. The route is also known to be typically flat, and runners can expect to get their PBs at this race!
Siem Reap is a growing Cambodian city that is a popular tourist destination. Surrounding the city is a range of ancient temples, well preserved and beautiful to visit. In the city itself you will find a variety of restaurants, lively nightlife and plenty to see and do.
The most popular tourist attraction around Siem Reap is the Angkor Wat temple, a sight that you will see during your marathon run and definitely one that you consider taking more time to explore. Considered the 7th wonder of the world, the Angkor Wat temple is astonishingly well preserved. It is the largest religious monument in the world and when visiting, you cannot help but be awe-struck by its majesty.
The Compressport Rail Corridor run 2016 was our first ever trail running experience. We were so fortunate to have gotten 2 free race slots from our generous friends at Gatorade Singapore, who were the official hydration sponsor for the event. The race was held on the 31st January with 2 categories – 10km and 5km. Feeling adventurous and all eager to explore the new route, we chose to run the 10km category which stretched from Bukit Timah railway station to Tanjong Pagar railway station.
The flag off time for the 10km category was at 9am, the latest flag off timing for a 10 km morning race we ever went to. However, no complaints from us because this meant that we would be able to get more sleep and travel there via public transport instead of spending money on a cab 🙂 We took a 10 min bus ride at around 7.15am, alighting at King Albert Park station.
There were already many runners that had arrived before us, even though we had arrived more than an hour early! We deposited our bags at the trucks which would transport them to the end point at Tanjong Pagar. It was a smooth process for both baggage deposit and collection 🙂
Since it was about an hour before flag off, we joined many other runners in taking photos along the picturesque railway tracks on the suspended bridge which stretched about 50meters long:
Tracks along the bridge
Surprisingly for the big crowd that was expected, approximately 6000 runners for 10km, there were only 10 porta-potties available. Luckily we arrived early before the queues started to grow longer… and longer… and longer…
Finally it was time to flag off! We were in the 2nd wave although we went to wait at the starting pen at 8.30am (I guess there were even more kiasu people than us haha). But the intervals between each wave weren’t too long so it was alright. Just about 100m after flagging off, there was already a jam in front of us! We were wondering if there was a steep drop off ahead that was causing the jam, but as we approached it, we realised that it was a huge puddle of mud and everyone was going AROUND the puddle instead of through it, thus causing the jam.
But little did we know that this was the first of many mud puddles to come 😮
I honestly don’t recall it raining the day earlier..
In addition to the frequent puddles of mud every 50 meters or so, I found the run rather adventurous and interesting! Running on the soil and grass was actually much softer than running on the road, which is something we are both used to. Like most runners that day, we did not buy trail running shoes. As a result, careful footing was really important as some parts of the trail were really uneven with rocks. It was also really slippery running/walking over the sticky mud. Any mistake could easily lead to a sprained ankle or worse >< . Along the route, there were several underpasses we ran under. I remember one particular underpass which was really dark and we could hardly see anything in front of us. It was so scary because there were so many rocks on the ground and I didn’t want to trip over it.. You can’t be too careful right?
On the bright side, the weather that day was awesome! The trees and the low cloud cover that morning made the run really cooling even though it was rather late in the morning. Hydration points were nicely spaced along the route but we brought our own bottle so we didn’t have to stop to take a drink. I was so glad that I brought along my GU chews that I bought at the expo a week before because I was so hungry along the way 🙂
Happy running!
The 7km mark was the most memorable part of the race. As we approached it, we realised that there was a huge crowd in front of us. None of us knew what was going on up ahead that was causing this hold up, because we were unable to see anything from the back. There was about a hundred people packed under this bridge and it was slowly getting stuffy and humid.
Doesn’t this look like a scene from a zombie apocalypse?
After about 8 minutes of jostling and squeezing with many other sweaty bodies, we were almost reaching the front of the crowd. To our left, we actually saw people climbing up a slope? What was causing the jam turned out to be a massive grey puddle which was shin deep and very murky.
Some people decided not to go through the puddle so they took a detour up the hill while the rest of us decided to brave through the mud. It was taking so long because again people were walking at the edge of the puddle which was less deep than the middle. I wasn’t too afraid so decided to just step into it and thus my entire feet was submerged in the mud !! As a kid I used to love playing in mud and my sisters would say it was because my zodiac was a PIG. I guess I was in my true element then, so naturally I loved every moment of it haha. However, after passing through the “mud pond”, the icky feeling of murky water, mud and soil in our shoes was really unpleasant .. our main goal from then on was to quickly get to the finishing line and wash off!!
The end point was at the former Tanjong Pagar railway station. The last kilometre of the route was dry soil and grass which made running so much easier! We finished the race much longer than we would usually do. However, considering that we slowed down over every mud puddle we came across to avoid slipping and stopping at the massive jam during the run, I do suppose that it was still fairly decent.
After passing the finishing line we were greeted by volunteers who congratulated us with the medal and some nourishment- water, ice cold Gatorade and bananas! We are so grateful for the volunteers for selflessly spending their sunday helping out at the race. The event wouldn’t have been possible without them 🙂
Only after the race did I realise that my legs and shoes were so dirty from the mud 😮 Luckily there was an area with hoses where participants could clean up. But of course there was a really long queue for it because many others were muddy as well.
We decided to take some pictures on the tracks too! There were many other runners taking pictures there as well.
Overall, we thought that the race was an interesting first trail running experience. We realised that trail running was so much different from road running. In road running, we didn’t have to be so careful with stumbling over rocks or sliding over the mud for example (but of course having trail shoes would be better). Trail running heighten our senses and it forces us to pay more attention to our surroundings. It was definitely more tiring to run in the trails as compared to the road. We were glad to be given this opportunity to run along the green corridor before it will be closed for renovation some time during this year.
This definitely won’t be our last trail run! Looking forward to more trails in the future! ??
Read more about the race and other posts on our blog www.runyourpace.wordpress.com and follow us @runningmypace on instagram!
Running a marathon may seem like an incredible feat for some of us, but imagine if you have to run a marathon blind. Josh Crary is one guy that managed to accomplish this. He did not let his physical disability stop him from achieving his dreams, and even ran the Boston Marathon twice.
At age 14, Josh was diagnosed with the degenerative retinal condition known as choroideremia causing him to go permanently blind. Never allowing his condition to hold him back, Josh decided to run the 2012 Boston Marathon. Both of his parents passed within the 3 months after the race, inspiring him to run again in 2013 in honor of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, where his father was treated at. Josh hopes that by running he can connect with others in similar situations and inspire them to go after their dreams!
Watch as Josh shares his story:
In Singapore, there is Runninghour, an inclusive running club that promotes integration of people with special needs through running. You can find friends who are mildly intellectually challenged, physically challenged and visually challenged joining the club’s runs to keep fit. What’s more, last year they organised the first blind run, Runninghour2015 where all participants could experience running a race blind-folded.
