For the first-time ever, Bliss-Out 2015 will draw Yogis and music lovers all over Singapore and beyond for a spectacular yoga and concert night-out on 12 December 2015, at The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay from 5pm till late.
All JRL readers get to enjoy an exclusive 10% off registration fees by using this code: BLISSOUT10OFFJRL upon checkout!
Brand ambassador at Compressport Singapore, Shariff is first mobility impaired marathoner in Asia. born with a single leg before having it amputated further up to his thigh. Shariff began his journey as a runner after a failed suicide attempt; in this interview we speak with Shariff about his passion for running.
JustRunLah!: How would you introduce yourself to Singapore running community?
Shariff: Md Shariff Abdullah Peters, also known as Singapore Blade Runner.
JRL: When did you first pick up running (what age) and what inspired you to do so?
Shariff: At the age of 40 years old, my stump was amputated due to skin infection; after 3 months of recovery, I was inspired by South African Paralympian Oscar Pistorius and started running to inspire everyone.
JRL: Would you say that one needs to have a certain mindset to take up running as a sport/exercise activity?
Shariff: Running is one of the healthy sports to stay healthy, fit and strong. You need to have courage to start, strength to endure, resolution to finish and never give up.
JRL: What would you consider to be your biggest running achievement so far?
Shariff: My biggest achievement is to be qualified and having participated in the prestigious Boston Marathon for 4 years since 2012.
JRL: How has Compressport products assisted in your training and achievements?
Shariff: Compressport products really help me on my performance and recovery. Ever since I started to wear the compression, I have no muscle cramps on the calves and tights. During the run, I had no pain, cramping and tightness in my calves which I almost always have. My legs still feels fresh at the end of runs and I continue to wear them for a few hours afterwards. On the following day, my legs still felt good, as if I had not ran the day before. The calf sleeves certainly did make a difference for me! It does not only help me with races but also with recovery!
JRL: What are your future goals?
Shariff: My goals are to run the Tenzing-Hillary Everest Marathon in May 2016 and also taking up courses to become a coach for para-athletes.
JRL: One reason why runners should join Compressports Rail Corridor Run 2016?
Shariff: Get the experience running on the trails and lookout for the beauty of rail corridor and historical places.
JRL: What advice would you give to all participants at Compressport Rail Corridor Run 2016?
Shariff: Join me, the Singapore Blade Runner, in running through the rail corridor on a trail instead of concrete pavements! Escaping into the woods or meadows gives you an experience of nature that road runs cannot provide. Also, the running surface of trails are softer, which gives your body a break too. The benefits of trail running span across the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual areas of your life.
JRL: What is your mantra for when the going gets tough in a race?
Shariff: Nothing is impossible when you believe.
JRL: Finish this sentence: Running is…
Shariff: … my passion – Born to Run, Live to Inspire
Once touted as Singapore’s brightest spark for running events in her secondary school years, Yvonne Lin has continued to run competitively and clinching titles in races. Flight Centre Active Travel had the opportunity to chat with her about her races this year and on how she juggles her training, work and lifestyle.
FC Active Travel: Hi Yvonne, thanks for taking the time to chat with us at Flight Centre Active Travel. How has things been for you lately?
Yvonne Lin: Things are good. I’ve started racing more this half of the year. Work has been well too.
So far in this half of the year, I’ve participated in races of various distances (5km, 10km and 21km). The races are Sundown half marathon, Mizuno Ekiden, Pocari Sweat Run and Asics City Relay. Among these four races, I enjoyed the Pocari Sweat Run the most as it was not oversubscribed. The route was simple and straightforward which I believe made it enjoyable for both competitive and leisure runners.
FC Active Travel: Some awesome races there. How have the results been?
Yvonne Lin: The following are my race results: – Sundown 21km Women Open: 8th – Pocari Sweat 5km Women Open: 1st – Mizuno Ekiden: Team 4th – Asics City Relay Running Club Category: Team 1st
I will be participating in a few other races in the coming months, namely the Orange Ribbon Run, Newton Challenge, Great Eastern Women’s Run and CSC Run by the Bay.
FC Active Travel: Plenty of racing! Great to hear. Tell us a bit more about the Pocari 5km. How did the race go more specifically?
Yvonne Lin: The race route was friendly. Although there were overlaps between both the 5km and 10km race route, I didn’t experience any jam as the route was clear. I could focus on competing as I didn’t have to weave through a crowd. The path was also wide for groups of runners to run through.
FC Active Travel: That sounds ideal. How has training been lately? What does a normal training week look like for you?
Yvonne Lin: Training has been only about 3 to 4 times a week ever since I started work. There will be a day dedicated for intervals, another for strength training and other one or two for long/easy runs. I’m planning to work on increasing my mileage.
FC Active Travel: What are your favorite interval workouts? And how far are your long runs and at what speed?
Yvonne Lin: I enjoy doing 500m and 1km intervals. long runs are between 10km to 15km between 5:15 to 5:30 per km.
FC Active Travel: Good stuff. So on a more personal level, what do you feel are some of the key factors in your success as a runner? Do you have any training rituals or diet secrets that you could share with people aspiring to be at your level?
Yvonne Lin: I believe that managing expectations and adjusting running goals from time to time would be some of the key factors in my success as a runner. They help to reduce the psychological stress experienced during competitions and enable me to enjoy running. Also, having a dedicated training team and coach motivates me to stay on track.
Eating frequent but light meals on training days works well for me – For example, Yoghurt/milk with granola, sandwiches and sushi In preparation for races, I increase my carbohydrate intake, with pasta as my preferred choice. As for training rituals, other than doing a short light jog, I perform a set of dynamic exercises as warm-up.
FC Active Travel: Thanks very much for the insight into your training and lifestyle! Who coaches you? And what do you think creates that dedicated team environment?
Yvonne Lin: You’re most welcome! My coach’s name is Elangovan S/O Ganesan. I believe to build a dedicated team environment requires a strong group of committed seniors/runners to lead the juniors in familiarising with the team routines and dynamics. They set the expectations and examples right for the young ones such that some would be inspired to take on the seniors’ role in the near future. I would say, building friendships and our accountability for one another anchor our commitment to the team and the sport.
FC Active Travel: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us Yvonne!
Yvonne Lin: Thanks for having me!
The BMW Berlin Marathon is a major running event held every September in the German capital. The 43rd BMW Berlin Marathon will be held on 25 September, 2016. Ranked as one of the top five World Marathon Majors alongside New York, Boston, Chicago and London, Berlin rates high on the bucket list of most running fanatics.
The marathon was first run in 1974 with a somewhat smaller field of only 280. Since the city was divided in two, the event was limited to West Berlin. Sixteen years later on September 30, 1990, the Berlin Wall had come down and athletes were able to run through the Brandenburg Gates and explore the unified city taking in east and west. Berlin has become a hub for marathoners thanks to its reputation as a fast course. Elite athletes looking to break the world record flock here year on year to take advantage of the flat landscape. There are simply no hills, which makes it ideal for record fast times and a perfect introduction to marathon running for newcomers.
The Berlin International Triathlon.
Berlin’s best running route is in the Tiergarten. Berlin’s second largest park, it is an extensive, sights-filled public park where runners can enjoy over 22km of paved and packed gravel paths. It is so clean and litter-free that it seems as if someone vacuums the place every night. Forget mileage, instead, run for time and romp off on any path or toward any monument that looks interesting.
Another favourite running route in Berlin is the Volkspark Friedrichshain. At 150 years old, Volkspark Friedrichshain is Berlin’s oldest park and a must-go for Berlin runners. The fountain of fairytales “Märchenbrunnen” at the entrance adds to the park’s magical appeal. It offers the perfect playground for runners — you can go for miles without running the same trail twice and you are never far away from Mitte and its post run recovery options. This is also a good place for runners who like to include hills in their run for additional challenge.
The 120th Boston Marathon will held on 18 April 2016, and has been the world’s oldest annual marathon since its inception in 1897 by the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.). The Boston Marathon continues to rank as one of the world’s most prestigious road racing events and is one of the six World Marathon Majors. Registration for this premium road race is now open for runners who meet the qualifying criteria.
The Boston Marathon has been known for its longevity, traditions and method of gaining entry into the race. Not everyone can qualify and not all qualifiers get to race due to the capacity limit of the marathon, therefore making it a valuable opportunity and privilege to run this race. Registration is done on a rolling admissions basis beginning with the fastest qualifiers according to the qualifying standards, with the race capacity set at 30,000 entrants.
Registration schedule are as follows:
Marathoners around the world gather in Boston annually to be part of the legendary race and top qualifying marathons used by participants include: Berlin Marathon, New York Marathon, Chicago Marathon, New York Marathon, Ottawa Marathon, Grandma’s Marathon, Philadelphia Marathon and California International Marathon.
The legendary Boston Marathon course follows a point-to-point route from Hopkinton to Boston, and is certified per the guidelines set forth by the IAAF and USA Track and Field. (Source: Boston Marathon)
Participants can expect on-course hydration and nutrition stations, digital clocks positioned at every mile and 5K mark, as well as sweep buses and first aid centers for runners who wish to drop out or experience difficulty in completing the race. The B.A.A. will also provide participants with a Heatsheet® Warmth Retention Cape for warmth after the race.
The City of Boston is the capital and largest city of Commonwealth of Massachusetts in the United States and offers an array of exciting performing arts, site-seeing tours, athletic events, and shopping areas.
Racing in the Boston Marathon is a dream for many runners around the world because of the prestige, honour and achievement. Make this your running goal to work towards and be part of the marathon history!
The annual Ubin WayFinder 2015 is back this coming 1 November 2015, held at the rustic and scenic Pulau Ubin. Ubin Wayfinder provides racers a rare opportunity to explore the vast nature landscape that Ubin has to offer – Areas that tarred roads cannot reach.
Pulau Ubin is situated just off the north-eastern corner of mainland Singapore and is home to Singapore’s last kampung and villages. Be prepared to embark on a time travel journey back to the 1960s and where the rustic beauty and well-preserved heritage of the island continues to draw visitors and avid explorers year after year.
Ubin Wayfinder will be structured in a sequence-based Orienteering Race – a sport originated from over 100 years ago which involves natural obstacles, navigation, and endurance.
The race categories for Ubin WayFinder 2015 includes the competitive Ubin Open Solo (10km) , Ubin Sprint Duo (8km) and Ubin Mixed Duo (6km), as well as non-competitive Ubin Explore (4-6km)
To win the race, participants have to be (1) fastest in following the fixed sequence from Start to Finish and (2) accurate navigation of all checkpoints prescribed on the Race Map.
For non-competitive Ubin Explorers, they will be given a map with all the actual checkpoints used for the competitive category and score points upon checking in at each station.
The haze may have been bad the past few days, but this does not stop us from having an active and healthy lifestyle.
Here are 4 ways for you to stay unfazed with the haze!
You have seen fitness junkies swear by special diets to maintain their lean build, bodybuilders following a strict diet to attain that ripped body. Indeed diet is very important when it comes to health and fitness, be it for energy boost or post-workout recovery. Superfoods can be easily found, prepared and consumed and are super because of their excellent source of nutrients and vitamins. While there are over hundreds of Superfoods, we have selected 5 most common and popular superfoods, along with their nutritional benefits and tips to consume them!
What do they contain:
Rich amount of potassium, manganese, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals
What they are good for:
While bananas are easy to digest and a good energy source, they can keep you hydrated and ensure a smooth muscle recovery. For long workouts, snacking on a banana can also give you that electrolyte boost.
Recommendations:
You can eat bananas about an hour prior to exercise for the energy boost or after exercise to replenish your body’s nutrients. However, it is good to limit yourself to eating bananas only once every three to four days to avoid stimulating a potential sensitivity.
What do they contain:
Lots of vitamin A, vitamin C, selenium and primary source of Beta-carotene
What they are good for:
Beta-carotene has been known for its anti-radical properties which aids in cancer prevention by promoting cell-to-cell communication and antioxidant effects. In addition, beta-carotene improves one’s immunity, respiratory and cardiovascular systems due to their complementary effects with various vitamins and nutrients in our body to combat diseases and lower risks of inflammatory particles.
Not to forget, carrots are also the secret to good vision due to the effects of Vitamin A – a single carrot provides 200% of your daily requirement of Vitamin A!
Recommendations:
Carrots are great as both a pre- and post-workout snack since they can be eaten raw and on its own. Add some carrots into your juice, salads and mains for extra boost of wellness and delightful orange!
What do they contain:
Plenty of calcium (5x as much as milk!), protein and potassium
What they are good for:
Athletes need to keep their bones strong and the calcium from chia seeds is especially easy for the body to absorb.
Recommendations:
Most people add chia seeds to their food like a supplement because of its mild taste. You can add chia seeds to your post work-out smoothie, salad or even your fruits to increase the nutritional value of your snacks.
What do they contain: Rich source of protein, omega-3, calcium, iron, phosphorus, zinc and vitamins A, D, E and B.
What they are good for: The protein in eggs consists of all eight essential amino acids that are crucial in muscle and bone cell growth and regeneration. Omega-3 also helps keep inflammation down and the joints lubricated. This makes eggs ideal for post-workout recovery!
Recommendations:
There are plenty of ways to cook or prepare eggs; raw, soft-boiled, poached, or simply just add a hard-boiled egg to your salad!
What do they contain:
Not to be confused with blueberries, Acai berries (pronounced as æsaɪˈiː, or ah-sa-yee) are red-purplish in appearance and comes from the acai palm tree. Acai berries contain the highest amount of antioxidants than any commonly eaten berries! In addition, they are rich sources of amino acids, essential fatty acids and vital trace minerals.
What they are good for:
Acai berries are commonly known for its weight-loss benefits, but it also helps to increase overall level of energy and stamina, and may aid to combat fatigue and exhaustion. Consumption of acai berries can also aid in muscle contractions.
Recommendations:
You can add acai berries to your post-workout smoothie or yogurt for the added berry sweetness, energy and beauty boost!
Running light is the key to successful and efficient running. A common misconception among runners about wearing padded running shoes is that they think the weight of the shoes can train their leg muscles and eventually lead to powerful, faster striding. Not only does wearing thick, heavy shoes increase risks to sprains and strains, it causes you to run with unnecessary extra effort, making running a chore and bore.
A slight weight adjustment of a few ounces off your running shoes can translate into a significant difference and advantage over your competitors when running a race of any distance. For training runs, a lighter shoe is absolutely going to make things a little easier.
Before you go all out zooming around the tracks and roads with feather-light shoes, it is important to keep in mind that the transitional phase from running with padded to lightweight shoes can be challenging and risky. With lesser cushion and support especially at the soles, some runners might be unprepared for the sudden change in weight at their feet and over-stride or even experience discomfort at their knees and ankles.
The transitional phase is the time where runners experience a series of trial error, corrections and development; how to run light and reduce impact on heelstrike? Is this shoe too thin or lacking in cushion for my race? Does the discomfort go away after more training?
While each runner will experience different issues and come up with a variety of coping techniques, light shoes are generally a superb choice for speeding and cruising through short to mid-distances but might be lacking in cushion or support for long distance races like full and ultra-marathons for some runners.
Having to relearn and adapt to new running techniques which rely less on your running shoes but your feet is not a bad thing at all. With lesser dependence on gear and increased activation of dormant muscles around your ankle, feet, hamstrings and calves, you become a better runner who can run fast and well even with minimal support.
So do not hesitate and try out a pair of lightweight running shoes for your next training as a start and experience the boost in speed, agility and adrenaline!
I write this with particular reference to the Race Against Cancer, though I’m sure some portions may resound with participants of other races on the 13th September 2015 as well.
Social media sites of the Race Against Cancer (RAC), Yellow Ribbon Prison Run and POSB PAssion Run for Kids were constantly scrutinised by eager participants over the fateful weekend. All these races were championing honourable causes – cancer, ex-offenders or character development in children.
Alas, it wasn’t to be as all three had their competitive runs cancelled. I personally had registered for RAC, having participated in the previous 3 editions and having witnessed various individuals tide through cancer.
A couple of my friends and I weren’t to be deterred, however, with the intent to run our own races. The event organisers had made a justified decision and cancelled RAC for the safety of participants, yet beyond the event laid the cause. I was determined to run my own Race Against Cancer, one that couldn’t be cancelled.
Due to the diurnal variation of the PSI, I was expecting it to be in the moderate range by the time morning arrived and was prepared to run my own race, possibly at Macritchie, while donning the Race Against Cancer Event Tee (of note, I rarely wear Tees to run due to the weather -but I was prepared to swap my usual singlet for this event’s tee in order to make the reason I was running known to others).
The option of running outdoors wasn’t to be as the 3-hr PSI was in the deeper into the unhealthy ranges, hovering around 150ish at about 7am. Unwilling to concede to the unfortunate circumstances, I proceeded to the treadmill indoors.
I’m sure many of us participants were frustrated over the cancellation of the competitive runs – we’ve all been training, we’ve all made sacrifices. Yet may I remind everyone that we are supporting a cause greater and are not mere participants of merely a running event. I’ve accomplished what I set out to do for this cause this day. I challenge everyone who’s feeling frustrated and encourage everyone who has the lingering thought of unfinished business to find any means one can to rectify it.
Sure, the Race Against Cancer was Cancelled. Yet the cause and hope remains to one day, cancel cancer. We may or may not be able to cure all, yet I believe we can cancel the fear. Why? Because there is no fear in love, because perfect love drives out fear.
With the PSI index 165 at 8am this morning, POSB PAssion Run for Kids 2015 was one of the races that had to be called off. Despite organisers initial thoughts to carry on the walk, at the end all categories were cancelled. With an announcement the organiser made clear that “Participant’s health and safety are of utmost importance” and they sought everybody’s kind understanding.
As most kids have were looking forward to the run, the carnival on site has continued. Organisers have lined up a series of activities for participants and their children to enjoy. At the carnival, Minister Lawrence Wong launched an SG50 commemorative book put together by our kids envisioning how Singapore will be like at SG100. This initiative was supported by the POSB PAssion Kids Fund.
We appreciate the great effort with the impromptu flexible arrangements
With the PSI index hovering at 150+ this morning, many races had to be called off. Instead of cancelling the event completely, SAFRA Celebration Run & Ride organisers converted both the 5km run and 1.5km runs into a walk.
Thumbs up to the organizers for placing participants’ health and safety as their top priority; those not feeling well were advised not to participate at all and the rest were advised to go at their own pace. It is never easy to call off a run or amend any event particulars, so we appreciate the great effort when it comes to impromptu decisions like this.
With 5 races happening tomorrow in Singapore, we will be updating this post as announcements are coming out.
Singtel Race Against Cancer 2015 – Cancelled
POSB PAssion Run for Kids – Cancelled.
Yellow Ribbon Prison Run 2015 – 10km Cancelled, 6km fun run will be turned into a 6 km walk
The Clementi Vertical Marathon 2015 – PSI below 100: Proceed as planned. 101-150: Run at own risks. Over 150: To be cancelled
SAFRA Celebration Run & Ride 2015 – Converted into a walk
POSB PAssion Run for Kids UPDATE: Dear participants, as of 8am today (September 13, Sunday), the 3-hr PSI has increased to 165. As such, regrettably, the 3.5km Family Walk will also have to be cancelled.
Please note that we have lined up numerous activities at the carnival which will take place at the promontory.
They include :
– Art Jamming
– Robotronics (Robotics, 3D Modelling and Printing)
– Environmentalist Corner (Conversion of recycled materials to air fresheners)
– Artist’s Corner (Balloon Sculpting)
– Kids Bazaar (Sale of items by little entrepreneurs)
– POSB PAssion KidsWrite Booth (Showcase of SG50 book, little museum and vision cards board)
– Laser Tag
– Inflatable Rock Wall
– Stage performances and free hourly giveaways
– Food and Beverage booths
– And much more!
At the carnival, Minister Lawrence Wong will be gracing the event and launching a special SG50 commemorative book, enabled by the POSB PAssion Kids Fund. This book was specially put together by our kids and shows how they envision what Singapore will be like in SG100.
Kindly note that participants of the competitive races can collect their medals at the carnival. Alternatively, separate medal collection arrangements will be announced shortly.
Thank you again for supporting the POSB PAssion Run for Kids!
Both the 5km run and 1.5km runs for the SAFRA Celebration Run & Ride will be converted into a walk. The 3-hr PSI reading has exceeded 100 and is in the unhealthy range. Participants’ health and safety are our top priority. Flag off timings remain. Participants to take part at their own discretion; those who are not feeling well are advised not to participate and the rest are advised to go at their own pace.
Participants of the 5km run may collect their medals and participants of the Run & Ride categories can collect their Universal Studios Singapore tickets at the Coliseum from 8-10am today. Do bring along your running bibs for identification. We will also be arranging for an alternative date(s) for medal collection at SAFRA Mount Faber to be advised later for those who decide not to come.
Participants are advised to reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion. Visit www.haze.gov.sg for more information on the haze.
Dear Runners,
The 24-hr PSI at 5 am, reads at 106 to 124 PSI and the 3-hr PSI reads at 147. This PSI reading still falls within the unhealthy range. The Yellow Ribbon Prison 10km competitive walk will be cancelled and the 6km fun run will be turned into a 6 km walk. As much as we would like the Yellow Ribbon Prison Run to take place, our participants’ safety is of utmost importance to us.
In its place, the 6km walk will still be available for participants, provided the PSI readings stay within acceptable levels. The 6km route takes you through our Happily Ever After Running Trail, which includes scenic and historical prison sites.
Our Carnival will also include many interesting and meaningful activities for everyone to enjoy. Look out for a special performance by the Philharmonic Winds and inmate performers or explore our Rehab fair to find out more on how you can help in the reintegration efforts of ex-offenders. Show your support for ex-offenders and help us build The Road To Acceptance.
For your safety, we will continue to monitor the haze conditions. If you’re feeling uncomfortable or have any heart or respiratory problems, please take it slow and avoid strenuous activity. For further assistance, please approach a Road Marshall who will be able to assist you.
POSB PAssion Run for Kids Update:
Dear participants, as of 5am today (September 13, Sunday), the 3-hr PSI is 147.
As such, we regret to inform you that the 10km Adults’ Competitive run and the run in all Kids’ Categories will have to be cancelled. The 3.5km Family Walk will however still proceed and participants from the competitive races are welcome to join in the Family Walk.
Like you, we are disappointed as we have been looking forward to the run. However, your health and safety are of utmost importance to us, and we seek your kind understanding.
Do still join us at the carnival! We have lined up a series of activities for you and your children to enjoy.
At the carnival, Minister Lawrence Wong will be launching a SG50 commemorative book put together by our kids, that envisions how Singapore will be like in SG100. This initiative is supported by the POSB PAssion Kids Fund.
For the participants of the competitive races, you will be able to collect your medals at the carnival. Alternatively, a separate medal collection will be arranged at a later date which will be announced shortly.
It is unfortunate that we are unable to proceed with the run due to the haze conditions, however your health and safety take priority. We thank you again for supporting the POSB PAssion Run for Kids 2015.
HAZE ADVISORY
Dear participants of The Clementi Vertical 2015,
As of 12am, 13th September 2015, the PSI level in Clementi Area is at an unhealthy range.
We have received several feedbacks that you are interested to continue conquering the steps up Blk 441B. Hence, the committee has decided to cancel the event only by category.
The status of each category would be based on the 3-hr PSI reading at the following timing on the 13th September 2015.
Category – Time of PSI reading
Men’s Open – 0600
Women’s Open – 0700
Veteran’s Open – 0800
Youth’s Open – 0800
Relay – 0900
Haze Advisory for the PSI reading will be as follows:
– For PSI below 100: The event will proceed accordingly.
– PSI 101 to 150: Participants will run at their own discretion.
(We do not recommend for participants with breathing difficulties and/or physical discomfort to continue participating in the race at this level.)
– PSI above 150: That particular category, at which the time of PSI is read, will be cancelled.
We will update consistently via our website (http://www.clementivertical.com/), Clementi Youth Facebook page and event page. For any cancelling of a category, the affected participants will be receiving updates via email and sms.
We would like to thanks everyone for your support and hope the condition of the haze would be better in the morning.
Thanks.
Regards,
The Clementi Vertical 2015 Organising Commitee
12 September 2015 @ 10.11pm
[LATEST UPDATE]
Based on the 24-hr PSI or 3 hr PSI reading (whichever is higher) from 5am onwards on Sunday, 13 Sept, we will adopt the following measures:
If PSI readings exceed 100, the 10km competitive run will be cancelled, and the 6 km fun run will be turned into a 6 km walk. The 6km walk will take you through the Happily Ever After Running Trail, which includes scenic and historical prison sites, ending at the carnival site within the Changi Prison Complex. Nevertheless, participants are advised to take it slow and avoid strenuous activity. 10km runners are invited to join the 6km walk.
If PSI readings exceed 200, both the 10km competitive run and 6km run will be cancelled and there will not be any 6 km walk also. Instead, buses will ferry participants from the pick up points straight to the carnival site within the Changi Prison Complex. At the carnival site, there will be many exciting activities for everyone to enjoy. Look out for a special performance by the Philharmonic Winds and inmate performers, and explore our Rehab Fair to find out about prison life and rehabilitation.
Your health and safety are of utmost importance to us. We thank you for your patience and kind understanding. Remember to look out for our broadcast tomorrow morning at 5am via our social media platforms, website, mobile app and SMS blast.
[Cancellation due to Haze]
As at 9:00PM, the PSI levels are within the unhealthy range. In light of the poor air quality, and for the safety and health of runners, volunteers, staff and beneficiaries, we regret to inform you that the run will be cancelled.
For all registered 15km and 10km runners who wish to collect your finishers’ medal from Singapore Cancer Society. The collection details are as follows:
Venue: Singapore Cancer Society Office
Address: 15 Enggor Street, Realty Centre, #04-01, Singapore 079716
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10.00 am to 5.00 pm
Collection period: 14 to 30 Sep 2015 (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays)
Please present your Race Bib upon collection.
We apologise for the inconvenience caused.
Haze Condition Update:
Dear runners,
the PSI readings have been hovering in the unhealthy range for the past few days. We are continuously monitoring the haze conditions in view of our upcoming Yellow Ribbon Prison Run this Sunday.
Should the haze condition worsen, there may be a possibility of a scaling down of activities or a cancellation of the Run for the safety and health of our runners.
The decision on whether to proceed with the Run will be made by 5 am tomorrow morning. Look out for our update via our social media platforms, website, mobile app and SMS blast. Thanks for your patience and fingers crossed the unhealthy levels don’t persist!
The 3-hour PSI reading is currently in the unhealthy range. We are closely monitoring the situation in view of the SAFRA Celebration Run & Ride planned for tomorrow. The organising committee will make a decision at 5am tomorrow morning on whether to proceed with the 5km and 1.5km runs, and the post-run activities, depending on the prevailing haze condition. Updates will be posted on SAFRA Facebook and the event website (www.safra.sg/celebration). An SMS notification will also be sent to participants. We hope the haze will clear up!
Your health and safety is of great importance to us. We are closely monitoring the PSI readings. Although the most recent 3-hour PSI reading has reached 133, the organising committee will make the final decision at 9.00pm tonight on whether to proceed with the event.
You are strongly encouraged to follow us on our Facebook page: Singtel – Singapore Cancer Society Race Against Cancer for updates. In the event that the race is cancelled, we will make the announcement over our social media, as well as send an SMS to your registered mobile number.
Dear participants, as of 6pm today, September 12 (Saturday) the 3-hr PSI reading is 133.
At the same time, we have received feedback that many of you are eager to run and hopeful that the haze situation will improve by tomorrow morning. As such, we will continue to closely monitor the haze situation and hope that the conditions improve.
Based on the 3-hr PSI reading at 5am tomorrow morning, September 13 (Sunday), we will adopt the following measures:
· If PSI readings exceed 100, the 10km Adults’ Competitive and Kids’ Categories will be cancelled
· If PSI readings exceed 150, the 3.5km Family Walk will also be cancelled
· If PSI readings exceed 200, the carnival will be cancelled as well
Your health and safety are of utmost importance to us. At the time of flag off, we will still be closely monitoring the situation and may cancel the run if the haze conditions worsen.
We thank you for your kind understanding. Remember to look out for our announcement on our Facebook page tomorrow morning (September 13, Sunday) at 5am.
Fingers crossed! Let’s hope that the haze clears up!
For the latest PSI readings, please visit www.nea.gov.sg
HAZE ADVISORY – For PSI below 100: The event will proceed accordingly PSI 101 to 150: Participants will run at their own discretion. (For this matter, we recommend that participants who have breathing difficulties/are not feeling well should not to participate.) PSI above 150: The event will be cancelled.
Are you planning a visit to Singapore? If you are up for the challenge, why not sign up for a few races over one weekend? As you race you will get to enjoy some of the best sceneries in Singapore. It is definitely a unique way for you to get to know some locals and immerse in the local culture in Singapore!
On 15 November 2015, the World’s Best Obstacle Race – Reebok Spartan Race, will be coming to Singapore for the first time ever! In this exclusive interview, JustRunLah chats with Joseph De Sena, founder and CEO of Reebok Spartan Race, to get an insider’s scoop of everything about the Spartan Race!
JustRunLah!: Can you introduce yourself and the race to Asia?
Joseph: Sure. My name is Joseph De Sena and I’m the founder and CEO of Reebok Spartan Race, the world’s leading obstacle course racing company. I founded Spartan Race in 2010 and the brand has since grown to include more than 240 events in 25+ countries, 1 million-plus global participants and key lifestyle sponsors including Reebok and NBC Sports.
I’ve always competed in extreme sports adventures, something that I feel really tests my mental and physical endurance against nature. So far, I’ve done over 50 ultra-events – one year I did 14 Ironman events. Most of the races I do are 100 miles or more with a few traditional marathons in the mix, just for fun!
JRL: Spartan Races in Asia, can you let us know how it all started?
Joseph: Spartan Race grew up through the foothills of US in Vermont, quickly spread across America and then Canada, Latin America, Europe and even Dubai- it made sense that Asia Pacific, which represents 60% of the worlds population, would follow.
Spartan Race entered the Australian market as the ninth obstacle course race (OCR) entrant and climbed to become the number one in market share. Our global partner, Reebok, expressed a huge interest in the license for South Korea and since then, the races that have been held in South Korea have always soldout, despite participants having to endure a 3-hour one-way bus ride from downtown Seoul to the race venue even before doing the race.
We feel like we’re definitely onto something here in Asia!
JRL: In Asia, there are other obstacle races. How are Spartan Races different from them?
Joseph: The ultimate vision for Spartan Race is that it becomes an Olympic sport, and we have been working very hard on this for a little while now. There is definitely an element of serious sport to the race- everyone is timed, the obstacles are not easy and the experience of training and doing one really challenges the human mind and body. In the same breath, we also cater to all fitness levels and are extremely inclusive because the idea of being a Spartan and overcoming the odds apply to everyone- the best athletes in the world, people who are battling health and weight issues, and people just having fun with their buddies- the teachings are universal.
JRL: Will there be any differences racing them in Singapore/Malaysia as compared to Europe/US?Joseph: Spartan Races throughout the world are executed at the same level of challenge and difficulty. We’ve had an incredible set of obstacles produced in Southeast Asia for the upcoming races with no efforts spared to ensure that the experience we are bringing will on par with Spartan Races anywhere else in the world.
The main differences will lie in the venues of the races- terrain and conditions always vary which makes every race new and exciting for racers who are looking to attempt multiple races in Asia.
JRL: What are the challenges faced bringing the race to Asia and what do you wish the races in Asia to evolve to?
Joseph: The challenges faced with bringing the race to Asia are similar to those we face bringing the race into any new market- seeking approvals and building relationships with different governments present different sets of opportunities and challenges.
For us, our top priorities are always safety, and the way we have executed our events and obstacles have always demonstrated this. However, when it comes to dealing with different markets, we find that some countries are simply more receptive to allow certain obstacles and race conditions than others.
Our vision for Spartan Race in Asia would be our very own version of the Spartan Race Asia Championships. Following the current models we have for the European Championships, we would love to grow the Asian Spartan race community into one that travels within the region to attend races of all levels (Sprint, Super, Beast) and have the best from the Asian Championships then represent the region at our annual World Championships, which to date, has only ever been held in the US.
Someday soon, we also hope to host the World Championships in an Asian country.
JRL: What do you think the future has in store for Spartan?
Joseph: Building the Asian market in every country in Southeast Asia, China, India, and Japan, to bring the world’s fastest growing participatory sport to the masses. We want to continue transforming people’s lives by using the Spartan Race as the catalyst for change.
JRL: How do you wish the race to inspire the people in Asia?
Joseph: The OCR model is a relatively fresh concept in Asia, which means that we can offer a unique experience to a growing passionate community of adventure racers. Obstacle racing is now the fastest growing participatory sport in the world. Anyone can do it. People of all ages and fitness levels. It is the thrill of the unpredictable. Asia seems to have a big fitness culture and we see this as a great chance for us to give people an exhilarating ‘wow’ experience, and create a great first impression of the race form.
In other parts of the world, we see so many people come forward to try the race even if they have never done any kind of race before- the idea of becoming a ‘Spartan’ and what it means- it really drives people. And once they’ve done it once, overcome those obstacles and crossed the finish line- it’s addictive.
We also host a Junior Race for children aged 4-13 years old. Children are a huge part of the Spartan philosophy- teaching them how to overcome obstacles at such a young age are important lessons they can take with them into adulthood.
Additionally, not every child may be great at an athletic sport like soccer or basketball but all kids can be good at OCR simply because the motions and actions are so instinctive to them. It puts all children on an amazing level playing field and allows each of them to be cool mini Spartans.
I look forward to hearing some great Spartan stories coming out of Asia in the next few months!
JRL: Lastly, to all the finishers at Spartan Races (Asia), three things you hope they take out of the race!
Joseph: 1. How challenging but satisfying the race is to overcome and accomplish.
2. Inspiration to push forward and try more difficult race categories – the Super and the Beast- by travelling around Asia and the world, to achieve their Trifecta title.
3. Burpees, burpees, burpees. This is the currency of Spartan. The burpee is challenging but so effective as a total body exercise- if there was one exercise to train with in the lead-up to a race, this is the one. Committing to a Spartan Race is a tough investment in yourself- you are pledging to kickstart a lifestyle of change and a challenge to your body and mind. Burpees will facilitate this process.
JRL: Finish this sentence: The type of people that compete in a Spartan race are……
Joseph: ready for transformation. The race is a vehicle for positive transformation, both physically and mentally.
Mark your calendars for next year’s Compressport Rail Corridor Run 2016, Singapore’s thrilling heritage run taking place on 31 January 2016, Sunday! Take part in the 5km Fun Run or 10km race that covers the trail route stretching from the historic Bukit Timah Railway Station to Tanjong Pagar Railway Station. Here are 3 reasons why everyone should take part in this trail and heritage running event:
Compressport is a 100% Swiss company with 100% European made products and it is the only compression in the world that is backed with a 2-year warranty policy. Being the title sponsor for the Compressport Rail Corridor Run 2016, participants not only get to enjoy a wonderful trail race experience, but also get to receive exclusive benefits from the globally renowned compression brand!
All race participants get to enjoy up to more than $100 worth of Compressport products including a Compressport T-shirt (worth S$49.90), Compressport drawstring bag (worth S$19.90) and beautiful finisher medals for both 5km and 10km categories. On top of that, 10km participants get to receive a complimentary pair of Compressport Pro Racing Compression Socks (worth S$29)!
Runners will run on crushed stones path where the railway line was once laid in an idyllic natural setting. This feeling will give runners an adrenaline rush in contrast to the typical road races in our urbanized environment.
The railway line along the Rail Corridor serves as a reminder and a physical historical record of the relationship between Singapore and Malaysia. The scenic and tranquil route stretches from the Tanjong Pagar Railway Station, the Bukit Timah Railway Station, including the cast iron railway bridges across Bukit Timah Road, Upper Bukit Timah Road and Ulu Pandan Canal. Therefore, the Compressport Rail Corridor Run 2016 will be a run through heritage, nature and excitement!
Compressport Rail Corridor Run 2016 supports Halogen Foundation (Singapore), an educational charity that is focused on building young leaders and entrepreneurs. Halogen is also an Institution of Public Character (IPC).
By taking part in this race, youths from all walks of life, backgrounds and income levels under the care of Halogen Foundation can receive quality leadership and entrepreneurship education and experiences. Every young person can hence become positive change-agents to lead themselves and others well.
So if you are in for a Sunday filled with adrenaline, goodies, heritage, nature and charitable cause, Compressport Rail Corridor Run 2016 is the trail race to join to start off the first month of 2016!
