- Modified race route against Singapore’s city skyline to ensure a seamless transition to the new finish at the National Stadium
- Entertainment points and increased spectator presence aimed at enhancing the overall atmosphere at an iconic venue
- Team Singapore athletes raring to go in National Championship
SINGAPORE, 8 September 2023 – The IRONMAN Group, organisers of the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM), has unveiled the race route for the 2023 edition. This year, the event will bring back the prestigious Gold Label International Elite Race and National Championship, with the enhanced route aimed at offering a perfect blend of race difficulty while creating an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators.
Taking place from 1-3 December, the event will feature various categories, including the Kids Dash on Friday evening, 5km and 10km races on Saturday morning, and will conclude with the Marathon (42.195km) and Half Marathon (21.1km) on Sunday morning. The races will culminate in a new finish experience for participants at the iconic National Stadium, where enhancements have been made to create an atmosphere of celebration and support.
Each race category offers its own distinct course. The Half Marathon as well as the 5km, 10km categories will be full road races, providing participants with a more engaging and dynamic race experience through a variety of terrain, including flat stretches, gradual inclines, and the occasional downslope. Runners can expect a run past renowned Singapore landmarks and famous roads, such as the F1 Pit Building, Singapore Flyer, War Memorial Park, and the Merlion, with the breathtaking backdrop of the city’s iconic skyline. Notably, the Half Marathon will have a new return route after splitting from the Marathon, allowing for more supporters and spectators to cheer on the participants along the roads of the distinctive Esplanade and Suntec vicinity. Meanwhile, the meticulously planned route for the Marathon will consist largely of well-paved roads and provide seamless integration with the picturesque Park Connector Networks (PCNs), offering runners a truly unforgettable and exhilarating race experience.
Speaking on the race, Jeff Edwards, Managing Director of Asia for The IRONMAN Group said, “We are thrilled to be offering the full breadth of events, including the prestigious Gold Label International Elite Race and National Championship which will heighten the excitement around the overall event, and bring to life this year’s theme ‘Our Race to Go Beyond’.
“We are confident that this year’s Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon promises not only a professional and top-tier race but also an unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience for all.”
Ong Ling Lee, Executive Director, Sports & Wellness, Singapore Tourism Board, said, “A standout event onSingapore’s exciting sporting calendar, this year’s Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon route will showcase the best of Singapore’s city skyline and iconic landmarks, as participants make their way from the home of FORMULA 1 night racing to the new finish at the National Stadium. This marathon is more than just a prestigious race; it also offers an exciting line-up of entertainment to ensure a memorable race experience for local and international participants.”
Commenting on the finishing point for this year’s race, Roy Teo, Chief of Industry Development, Technology and Innovation Group at Sport Singapore said: “This year, organisers of SCSM are creating a unique race experience as they bring the finish line into our iconic National Stadium for the first time. We look forward to welcoming participants and their supporters into the Kallang Alive precinct and creating a memorable event experience for all.”
RACE ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
Runners in the Marathon and Half Marathon will begin their races in waves from 4:30 a.m. on Sunday, 3 December, and have the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of renowned attractions such as Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore Sports Hub. Within the Central Business District, runners will pass famous landmarks including the Singapore Flyer, Merlion, and Esplanade.
In the 10km and 5km categories, participants will begin their races on the morning of Saturday, 2 December from 6.30 a.m. and 8.30 a.m. respectively. Both 10km and 5km runners will be flagged off at the F1 Pit Building and will pass by the Kallang Basin as they head to the finish line at the National Stadium.
The Kids Dash, for children up to 12 years old, will take place on the evening of Friday, 1 December this year. It will provide a rousing, fun experience for the young participants as they and their parents run a 650m route around the F1 Pit Building. Participants can also look forward to a surprise goody bag inclusive of an event t-shirt and a neck fan after the run.
Team Singapore marathon runner, three-time SCSM National Champion and National Record Holder Soh Rui Yong also expressed his anticipation for the race and new route, “It’s a refreshing concept to end at the National Stadium this year and the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon continues to deliver the crown jewel of road races not just in Singapore but in the region as well. I am still working on my plans for the rest of the year, but I am aiming to go below 2:34:00 and run the fastest marathon time set in Singapore at SCSM. It would be a tough challenge but no better stage to do it than the SCSM National Championship.”
Fellow national marathon runner Ashley Liew echoed, “I’m excited to be racing the annual Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon National Championship again this December. The annual event holds a special place in my heart – from my debut marathon in 2004 when I was just trying to lose weight, to finishing on the podium five times to-date – SCSM2023 will be extra special as my 14th year racing this marathon.
“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to go beyond, with an iconic finish at the Sports Hub, which will give runners a memorable finish with the raucous cheers of their family and friends along with the enthusiastic local running community,” he said.
Entertainment stations will be planned along the race route to motivate runners and delight spectators. These points will feature a diverse range of performances, from awe-inspiring stilt walkers and dancers to the beats of energetic bands and gravity-defying cheer squads to spur runners forward with their positive energy and spirit. These entertainment stations are strategically placed to provide a lively and energising experience for participants, fueling them towards the finish line. The finish experience at the National Stadium also promises to be extraordinary, offering participants a grand backdrop for the momentous achievement of completing the race.
Participants can expect aid stations every 2-3 kilometers, ensuring hydration and replenishment needs are met throughout the race. With 19 aid stations for the Marathon, nine for the Half Marathon, four for the 10km race, and two for the 5km race, runners can focus on their performance with confidence and peace of mind.
Spectators will also be able to support and cheer on the runners at various locations along the route. Notable spectator locations include Gardens by the Bay (between the two domes), East Coast Park (Marine Cove, Coastal Playgrove, Parkland Green), Marina Boulevard (near Promontory), as well as the National Stadium vicinity. The festivities and presence of supportive spectators along the route will also create an electric atmosphere as participants race the finish line, offering all an unparalleled experience.
In line with the commitment to environmental sustainability, various initiatives have been implemented to reduce food wastage and carbon footprint. Recycling efforts will be prioritised, with a dedicated cleaning company tasked to segregate items for further recycling at the start and finish points, as well as along the racecourse. Suppliers have also been asked to switch to energy-efficient LED lights. Furthermore, electric vehicles will be used for race operations, minimising the event’s impact on the environment.
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Further information regarding road traffic arrangements and shuttle services for participants will be provided at a later time.
To register for the Singapore Marathon or for more information, please visit: singaporemarathon.com. Standard Chartered Cardholders will enjoy 15% off their registration fees across all categories.
