Race Review: Titi Ultra 200 2017 (by supertramp)

Kinda late in this, but here comes the review.

After completing Craze 101 last year, I thought it might be time to try something with a longer distance. So I took a look at Titi when I heard about it.

They had the usual 50 and 100 on offer. But what caught my eye was the 200 and 250. As much as I wanted to try 250, the COT seems a little too short for comfort with the difference between 200 and 250 being only 2hrs in COT. So in the end I plumped for the 200.

The course

Prior to the run I did a couple of long runs especially the CNY 100miles and a couple of Mt Faber to test out gear and running condition at night. I wouldn’t say I was thoroughly well prepared but I think I was as prepared as I thought I can be. Jeri was generous enough to let me have some Tailwind samples as well to try out so that boosted my confidence a little too as I always hear about how Tailwind helps runners during long runs.

I arrived at race site at about 1530hrs and saw the brave souls attempting 250km having their race briefing. I did my gear check, collected my BIB, deposited my bag, went around the site taking photos, saw the 18 brave souls depart before going to have a meal of Pineapple Fried Rice at the restaurant.

Japanese legend – Ryōichi Sekiya

Our race brief started at around 1715hrs or so. And I looked around and saw everyone in rather relaxed mood. No pre-race tension was felt. Good! After the brief, the 3 of us from Singapore, Henry, Kenneth and myself went for a photo with our Singapore flag near the start line.

Before the fun begins

Right on cue at 1800hrs, under relatively cooling weather, the 43 of us started our 200km adventure.

Ready for flag off

I took it rather easy from the start and soon find myself near the end of the pack. But I know it was early hours and I was never fast anyway. So I maintained a comfortable pace and ran along the road. Happened to see a crushed python along the road and must say it was a rather big one. The smell was rather unpleasant. After running for about 5km I started to adopt the “uphill walk, flat and downhill run” strategy even though it had been only 5km. But knowing the long road ahead, I decided to save my legs. After running downhill for about 3km and seeing my Fenix showing 9km, I was expecting to see CP1 and right on the dot, just to left of the foot of the hill is CP1. So I refilled and left within like 3mins.

Route to CP2 took me past a local village and I saw the local kids playing by a small wooden shack. I could not help but wonder if our local kids are able to grow up in such rural environment without WiFi and smartphones. I reached CP2 at around 1950hrs, which was about 1hr ahead of COT. Making good time.10.5km next.

Route to CP3 involved quite a bit of climbing so it took me a while. Whole place was generally dark and my headlight was all that I had to show me the way forward. There were the occasional vehicles coming from both directions but generally I felt it was safe for us. Also saw quite a number of support vehicles for other runners moving up and down. Upon reaching CP3 I took out my first packet of Tailwind and drank it down (which I later found out from Jeri it was not meant to be consumed at a go). Then off I went to CP4, 11.5km away.

After clearing about 2km of climb, I started to speed downhill. Feeling rather good with Tailwind kicking in and the cooling weather, I maintain my running till CP4, even running on some uphills as I was feeling good. Arrived at CP4 at 2235hrs, which was 2hrs ahead of COT. Took abit of Coke and off I went again without needing to refill as I did not feel the need to drink during the last stretch.

This part was generally downwards too so I made good time. I did slowed down about 2km before CP5 upon entering a small town as I was unsure if I had missed a turn because I was not seeing the signs anymore. So I slowed and waited for 2 runners behind me until they told me to just keep going straight as Titi route does not do turns. So off I went again at arrived at CP5 exactly 12mn, which was 6hrs since flag off and now 2.5hrs ahead of COT. There were safari beds here and food but I did not feel a need to eat. This was also the drop bag point but my drop bag only contained 2 Red Bulls. So while some runners changed, I just recharged Fenix, had some drinks and went off again at 0030hrs targeting to be back at starting point i.e. 100km mark by 0800hrs.

Interesting placard the volunteers did. What did I steal?

I met Henry at CP6 as he was getting his swollen ankle checked. We ran together for a while before he told me to go on ahead. There were some serious climbs from here to CP7 but I still arrived at CP7 in good spirits with a 3hrs COT buffer.

Rather surreal feel to it

Started to get sleepy en route to CP8 and started to sleep walk at some parts. About 5km before CP8 I met 2 runners and I started to keep up with them to keep myself awake. They were real good and we even hit 5min pace while going downhill at this stage of the run.

At CP8 I took Tailwind again and bid my 2 new friends goodbye. This section was pretty down so I started to chiong down along the winding road under very dense fog. My headlight could barely shine through but I learnt to shine it slightly to the side for me to see straight ahead. After zig zagging down about 6km of continuous running I arrived at CP 9.

After stopping a while I carried on to CP 10, final 14.5km to 100km mark! During my short chat with the volunteers I was told the 250km leader was already on his 2nd leg out and will reach this CP within 20mins. Power man! And soon enough I saw him approaching from the opposite direction and we shouted words of encouragements to each other as we passed. With day breaking and some exhaustion setting in, the return leg somehow feels longer than when I went out earlier. After more turns than expected, I arrived CP10 around 0640hrs. So I had 80mins to clear the balance 9km. Just before I departed one of the volunteers told me left 9km but uphill now. Somehow I did not feel downbeat as spirits were still high so I cheerily said uphill also must go!

The uphill ah really no joke. As I slowly made my way up I kept trying to recall if I did run down so much the day before. After about 3km of ups, I finally hit the downs. I tried to run as much as I can down to catch up on the lost time during the climb. Day had broken by then and slowly I started to see runners out on their 2nd leg approaching me. Soon enough I saw Kenneth and he was looking strong and good as we passed each other. And at exactly 0800hrs I was back at CP 11! 14hrs I took to clear the first 100km!

14hrs right on time

One of my most serious mistake was committed here; I did not change. I had never ran such distance before so I did not see/know the importance of changing and I would pay the price for it later. After having 2 cup noodles and visiting the toilet to clear some ‘stock’ so I wouldn’t be caught out while running, I set off again around 0900hrs for my last loop. Plan was 8hrs to 148km and another 12hrs back.

Refuel

Sun was out in force by the time I was out again, so I no longer had the comfort of the night to shelter me. I ran when I can but as I was approaching CP12, I realised my thighs started to hurt as I was running down hill. So I had to slow my run to manage the tightness.

Photo credit: Chen Hong Bing

After departing CP12 for CP13, the heat started to get to me and I started to drink more. 99% of the route are not sheltered so I was literally roasted along the way. There were also more vehicles on the road now so I can no longer run as easily as I did in the night.

CP14 – 125km mark was reached around 1330hrs under the blazing sun. Took a longer rest there as I was really hesitant to step out into the inferno that was outside. I had also started to feel abrasions along my groin area. The perspirations under the sun and from the previous night had started to create salt crystals and these are giving me lots of discomfort. The abrasions started to affect my ability to run properly too thus my pace started to drop.

The killer sun

Next 11.5km to CP15 took me 2.5hrs, which was double the time I took the previous night along the same route. Somewhere along the way, it started to rain. Really, rain now? Though it stopped after about 15mins, I started to feel for the worse.

Have never felt so despondent while attempting to reach CP 16 which was the 148km mark. I really really do not recall it being so freaking far the previous night! The physical discomfort, the sun and the exhaustion had started to affect my mood and I started to curse and swear and consider hitching a ride somewhere because I was so darn tired. Instead of my planned 8hrs, I took almost 10hrs to reach CP16. I was so sick and tired of having 100PLUS the past 24hrs that I went straight to the mama shop and got myself a F&N orange and a can of grass jelly. Grabbed a bowl of cup noodle as well before I reluctantly prepared myself for the night segment for the last 52km. At this point of time I really had difficulty walking already as the abrasion had gotten real real bad. But there was nothing that can be done as I did not pack any change of clothing at CP16! Newbie mistake.

Midway to CP17 I met Ben, a 250km runner who decided to opt for 200km as he knew timing would be tight for 250km for him already. We started to chat and it helped me get rid of the Zzz monster for now at least.

Ben with me. Photo credit: Rany

Grabbed an apple at CP17 before moving off to CP18. By this time both Ben and I were terribly tired and sleepy. So both of us decided to stop for a short nap by the road side and I fell asleep within 5s of sitting down. If he had not woke me up, I would have continued sleeping really. Just before reaching CP18 I told him I intend to sleep for a while there so he moved on ahead and left with his support crew just was I was entering CP18. At CP18 I went straight to the tent wanted to lay down on the safari beds but by then the 100km runners had started to arrive and I saw 2 of them sitting on the beds. I was rather annoyed as both of them do not look to be in any discomfort though I later learned they had already decided to DNF. So I had no choice but to sit on a chair and sleep after telling one of the medics to wake me after 1hr. After about 55mins I woke and the medic saw me waking up, giving me a nod. But I promptly feel asleep again. So at the 1hr time mark, he came and woke me again. After seeing me stoning there for another 5mins, he came over and tell me it was time to go. So I got up, tried to adjust my tights to minimise the discomfort from the abrasions and moved off. 36.5km to go.

Many 100km runners ran past me and some of them on seeing my 200km BIB, gave me words of encouragement and that kept me going. About 5km before reaching CP19, it started to pour. Pour as in really pour. Not really knowing why but I instinctively took out my windbreaker and covered myself tightly leaving only my face visible. Even with rain pouring I started to sleep walk again. That was how tired I was. A few runners seeing the awkward way I was walking came over to check on me and offer muscle rubs/sprays but I told every of them it was abrasion so those would not be able to help me. Then I heard a girl asking me was I alright. As I was sleep walking looking down, I had to look up to see who was talking to me. I told her I was fine but just having abrasions. Then to my surprise she asked if I am David so I tried to take a hard look at her. Then she told me she is Siaw Hua and that was when I recognised her. I am still amazed today that despite me being covered up showing only my face, with my headlight glaring on my head and under darkness heavy rain conditions she was able to recognise me. She offered me Vaseline but I declined as I did not think it can help now when abrasions had already happened. So she wished me luck and told me to be careful before she went on her way in her slippers again. Slipper runners damn power. Finally I arrived at CP19 at 0235hrs, with only 7.5hrs more to COT with 25km more to go.

Decided to take another Tailwind here as I managed to run at the upcoming route the previous day so I wanted to see if I can make myself run more to make back some lost time. 50km runners had also started to ascend at this point and it was getting difficult to see ahead what with all their headlights brightly shining into our faces. In the end I only managed to do continuous running for about 3km at around 7:30pace before I had to stop as I had also started to feel pain on my feet. While walking downhill, Lian Boon on the last stretch of his 100km saw me and decided to walk with me to the next CP despite me telling him to go on ahead as I was really slow already. We chatted as we walked before finally reaching CP20. As 200km and 250km runners were using the timing chip system for tracking while the 50km and 100km were using the usual timing mat, I had to tell the volunteers as I enter the CP I was a 200km runner so they would know to tag my chip.

I rested for about 15mins here while Lian Boon went on his way. I pushed on to CP21 as fast as I could though the return leg felt longer and longer now. With about 2km to go, I decided to make a sprint towards CP21 as I knew it would be a straight road to it, if I can still call a 7min pace a sprint. Arrived CP21 at 0622hrs. 9km more with 3.5hrs to go.

Final CP

As I slowly made my way up the 3km worth of climb, the sky started to get brighter. This was the stretch where I had the most encouragements from fellow runners. Everyone congratulated me on making it this far for 200km and told me just a little more and it would be over while many also ran past giving me thumbs ups. I saw Amy and she was surprised I was still out there plodding along. I also chanced upon Lisa and cheerily told me well done and she will see me at the finishing line. 9km with 3.5hrs only should had been easy. But this was where I clocked 24min/km pace as I was practically dragging my feet along. I did some mental calculations and realised the possibility of missing the COT was very real so I tried to drag my feet along faster. The last 2km was bloody torturous. The road never seem to end and I tried to make a run for it wanting to end this once and for all but alas my legs gave up after barely 200m. So I had to dragged myself along. With about 200m to go, many CP volunteers were lining alongside the road to cheer us on. A lady from CP2 told me ‘reaching reaching’ and I replied I have been hearing that for a long time but I am not reaching yet! Then she offered to walk with me to the end. Just before the turn up the finishing line, she helped me take out my flag, and I walked across the finishing line carrying our flag above my head. 39hrs 27mins.

The seemingly never ending road to finishing line

So at that moment, I officially became a Titi Ultra 200km Finisher, the 3rd Singaporean to make the cut behind Alex Koh (2015) and Kenneth Lim (2017).

Photo credit: Tin

Aftermath:
Feeling so exhausted, I went over to collect my finisher tee and finisher buckle. This was when a frustrating ordeal unfurled. I was supposed to get a M size finisher tee, but it seemed they ran out of it. So they wanted to give me a L size instead but then they could not find L. Then it dawned on me that I may not get a finisher tee. WTF! I told the staff there “Do not tell me there are no finisher tee”. They went to fetch the Asst RD, Seow Kong and after he also could not locate the sizes for me, came over to me and explained that it is normal to not have enough finisher tee as they did not print finisher tees for all runners considering there will be DNSs and DNFs. He even went as far as to say because 200km only has so few runners, so the percentage they printed is even lesser. I looked him in the eye and said did he mean I should have ran 50km instead as 50km had so many runners but he said he did not mean that.
Lian Boon joined me at this juncture and we questioned him how can they not print finisher tees for all runners considering we had all paid for them. He said that had all along been their practice and if we are not happy with it we can don’t join their races in future. We raised the possibility of reprint and he said not possible as factories will not print in such small quantity. We then asked him for a solution and he plainly said there was no solution, no tee means no tee. Another couple joined in then and the husband said the wife just completed her first ever 100km run and now they were also told she is not getting her finisher tee. So the problem was not only for us 200km runners who is of ‘small quantity’. Again Seow Kong said nothing can be done. I can tell the husband was getting pissed and he said in that case can he get a finisher tee from other category like 250km and to my utter shock, Seow Kong actually said yes, he can get a 250km finisher tee if he wants. How can this be happening? I was asked if I wanted a 250km tee and I said no, of course not. I did not run a 250km why would I want that?
Then a volunteer said why not try XL for me and at this point anything goes, so I said give me, just give me your biggest size. In the end they handed me a XS. Seriously? XS was the largest they had? I went to look through their shirts myself and I was amazed when I saw a couple of 3XS, 2XS and XS. Why so many small sizes for 200km runners??? I managed to dig out a S which was a actually a defect print as there were some ink smudges but I took that. Then a lady, whom I presumed is Mrs Ng came and apologised for the incident. She then looked through the shirts and also asked aloud why so many small sizes to which Seow Kong had no answer to. She then told me they will contact the supplier to do a reprint for me and they will send my tee to me in Singapore. In the mean time I can take the defect S first. She then took down my BIB number and said will contact me as soon as they had a date. This was the kind of response I wanted to hear and not ‘nothing can be done’. With this unpleasant episode resolved, I went back to the hotel with Lian Boon and began my road to recovery from this toughest test of mine.

Side note:
The volunteers at the CPs had been amazing. They attended to our needs and were very supportive of us. Kudos to them.
But the finisher tee saga left a bitter taste in my mouth.
200km had 47 registered runners
4 DNS
20 DNF
Meaning only 23 completed. Only 23 and they ran out of sizes. Acceptable? You be the judge

Both hard earned

Special appreciation notes:
Jeri for the life saving Tailwind
Ben for the company from CP16 to 18
Lian Boon for the walk till CP19 to 20 sacrificing your own timing
And to Lena who ‘accompanied’ me for the whole of 40hrs

Toughness: Super tough
Support Crew: Excellent
Organisation: Good (except for the finisher tee saga)
Should you do it: If you are prepared. If you are VERY prepared

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Color Manila Blacklight On Tour 2017

     BEAT THE summer heat by joining the Color Manila Blacklight Run at the Filinvest Corporate City this May 27, 2017 starting at 5:00 PM.  Runners of all levels will surely enjoy the full sensory experience as they slice through the darkness while getting sprinkled with powders that transform colors once exposed to a special lamp!

The good news is that this year organizers will also be taking the Blacklight Run on tour throughout the country with stops set in Bacolod City’s The District North Point on June 3 and at Davao’s SM Lanang Premier on August 12.  Very soon, dates and venues for similar races in Cebu and Clark, Pampanga will be announced making sure that more will share in the fun.

All distance categories in Metro Manila – 10, five and three kilometers – will have the same registration fee put runners can choose between several the Deluxe and Rockstar packages.  The Deluxe packages goes for PHP 950.00 and consists of one race shirt, race bib, headlamp and colored powder while the Rockstar costs PHP 1,500.00 and includes everything in the Deluxe package plus a drawstring bag, face paint and foldable water bottle.

Runners have the choice between two sumptuously designed shirts entitled “Retro” and “Psychedelic”.  They can also choose what color of drawstring bag they want.

In addition, the six-kilometer Challenger will be introduced for PHP 2,000.00.  Challenger participants will have to negotiate several obstacles and will be entitled to an additional shirt on top of everything included in the Rockstar package.

However, provincial races will have a different pricing scheme while offering the same 10, five and three-kilometer categories. The Deluxe package is set at PHP 750.00 with a singlet, race bib and color packet followed by Rockstar at PHP 1,050.00 that consists of a shirt, race bib, headlamp and drawstring bag while the Superstar package is at PHP 1,500.00 and has everything in the Rockstar package plus two more drawstring bags, headwear and a sticker.

Medals await all finishers.  “At Color Manila Run, everyone is a winner,” said CM Vice President Justine Cordero.

Registration is ongoing at www.colormanila.com and at all SM Ticket outlets nationwide.  Prepaid cards may be purchased at RUNNR at Trinoma, Alabang Town Center and Bonifacio High Street, Toby’s at Glorietta, Abreeza, SM Mall of Asia and SM Megamall, Planet Sports at Robinson’s Place-Bacolod and Chris Sports at SM Lanang.

Last January, Color Manila successfully staged the fifth edition of their flagship Color Manila Run at the SM Mall of Asia.  “We hope to replicate the 12,000 runners that joined last January as the Blacklight Run Tour is a good way to promote tourism and at the same time have fun with the entire family,” said Color Manila General Manager Randy Canapi.

The Blacklight Run will offer everyone to the chance to have clean fun while being unclean on the outside with all those powders.  The country’s biggest night run just got even bigger so join now!

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LIVESTREAM: Nike’s Breaking Sub 2 Attempt This Weekend

Nike’s #breakingtwo attempt is set to happen this weekend! Here are the details:-

Nike will be livestreaming the breaking2 attempt! We will insert a livestream link on this page come race day! – Saturday 1145am Singapore/Malaysia time! 

Date: Saturday, May 6th
Start time: 0545am (Central European Time) [Saturday 1145am – Singapore, Malaysia]
Location: Monza Formula One Track, Italy
Goal: 1:59:59 for 42.195km
Athletes: Eliud Kipchoge, Zersenay Tadese and Lelisa Desisa
Live Commentary: Sal Masekela, Craig Masback and Paula Radcliffe

Known pacers

Red pacing group

– Chris Derrick (27:31.38 10,000m)
– Sam Chelanga (27:08.49 10,000m)
– Andrew Bumbalough (13:12.01 5,000m)

Green pacing group

– Teklemariam Medhin (27:16.69 10,000m)
– Nguse Tesfaldet (2014 African 10,000m champion)
– Aron Kifle (Silver in the 10,000m at the 2016 IAAF U20 Championships)

Blue pacing group

– Dejene Debela (2:10:13 marathon)
– Abayneh Ayele (Fourth at the 2016 IAAF World Half-Marathon Championships)
– Tadu Abate Deme (1:00:46 half-marathon)

Purple pacing group

– Collis Birmingham (Two-time Olympian)
– Selemon Barega (2016 IAAF U20 5,000m champion)
– Alex Oloitiptip Korio (59:28 half-marathon)

Purple pacing group

– Gideon Kipketer (2016 Mumbai Marathon champion)
– Stephen Sambu (26:54.61 10,000m)
– Stephen Mokoka (2016 African 10,000m champion)

Yellow pacing group

– Bernard Lagat (Five-time Olympian, two-time world outdoor champion)
– Philemon Rono Cherop (2016 Toronto Waterfront Marathon champion)
– Abdi Nageeye (11th in the marathon at the 2016 Olympics)

 

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Will History Be Made This Weekend? The Sub-2 Marathon Attempt

Since Nike announced it’s sub 2 marathon project, we’ve all been waiting for the day it will be attempted! This weekend – the Italian Formula One track – Monza will host the sub 2 marathon attempt. It’s something we all look forward to see – is running a marathon under 2 hours humanly plausible?

3 People 1 Goal

Kenyan Eliud Kipchoge has a great marathon record – winning 6 of the 7 Marathons he has ran. In the one that he did not win, he placed 2nd behind Kipsang who ran the World Record! Might we add he was also the Rio Olympics Gold Medalist! He has run the 3rd fastest marathon timing – 2:03:05. He is arguably the best and most consistent marathoner of our time!

Photo Credits: Athletics Weekly 

Ethiopian Lelisa Desisa came in champion at the Boston Marathon back in 2015! With a personal best of 2:04:45, we look forward to see how he measures up to Kipchoge.

Zersenay Tadese is also part of the sub 2 team. Although he has yet to run a sub 2:10 marathon, he is the current world record holder of the half marathon distance with an impressive timing of 58:23.

World’s Fastest Time But No World Record

Photo Credits: Runners World UK

The marathon will not be run on a conventional city course but a 17 laps of the 2.4km Italian Formula One Track. The track was selected specifically to optimise a number of factors namely – climate, terrain, elevation above sea level and surface. The attempt will be done between May 6th – May 8th depending on weather conditions. The organisers are looking for the best conditions possible.

Why this won’t be a record eligible run would probably be because Nike will sub in pacers midway through the race, making it not eligible for the World Record in the eyes of the IAAF. The job of the pacers would be to break the wind for the trio. Also, instead of having to slow down to grab their drinks, the trio will have their hydration handed to them.

Our Money Is On Kipchoge

All the time, money and effort poured into this project – but it will be a man, not a company that would break the sub 2 mark – if at all this weekend. And that man is likely to be the legendary Kipchoge. At Nike’s test run March, Desisa could not even manage sub-2:00 pace for 13.1 miles – running 62:55. Tadese on the other hand, although the world record-holder in the half marathon, has never broken 2:10 in four attempts at the full 26.2-mile distance. So, yes, our money is on Kipchoge.

Kipchoge believes he can do it. Is he belief warranted and legitimate? Is Breaking2 an overhyped marketing gimmick or a legitimate assault on a legendary barrier? We will find out this weekend – whether this day will go down in history!

Read More:

  1. 6 Coolest Running Track In The World 
  2. My Race In Review: Kyoto Marathon 2017
  3. 5 Reasons You Should Totally Date A Runner
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Run, Dance AND Party At THE MUSIC RUN™ By AIA

The Music Run™ by AIA 2017 – hailed in other countries as the Ultimate 5k Running and Music Festival, is returning to Sentosa Island on 6th May 2017, bigger and bolder this year in its third year running. A phenomenal and futuristic run, The Music Run™is an award-winning event that offers a unique total music immersion experience and has been making waves all over the world, including multiple sold-out events in Asia in 2016 and new tour dates announced in India, Europe and South Africa this year.

This year’s edition of The Music Run™ by AIA is set to be an upgrade from 2016 -with a variety of fun activations and photo opportunities to ensure Music Runners™ have a rocking good time.The Music Village Gates open at 3.30PM –and Music Runners™ will be treated to endless music and fitness-inspired entertainment in the Music Village. Getting the party started will be home-grown singer-songwriter Nathan Hartonowho will perform energetic pop jazz tunes on the main stage of The Music Run™ by AIA for the first time this year.

Runners can also treat themselves to a slew of fun and exciting activities including bubble football, giant slideand aninflatable climbing wall. Presenting Sponsor AIA Singapore will host fun and challenging activities such as Plank Challenge, BlenderBikesanda Trampoline photo boothwith cool prizes to be won at the AIA Vitality Get Active zone atthe Music Village. Music Runners™can also try their hands at being a 1-min DJ or get a hydro-tattoo for free!

In addition, AIA is adding a future-focused touch this year with the introduction of an Augmented Reality(AR) APP which allows Music Runners™to trigger AR filters by scanning special markers or signs in the AIA@Music Village, AIA Rock Highway and AIA Electric Avenue. More surprises and rewards await runners from event partners –Music Runs can take part in music-themed competitions at the AirAsia booth, enjoy attractive discounts at the PUMA pop-up store and quench their thirst with Gong Cha bubble tea. Lucky Music Runners™can also stand a chance to win prizes sponsored by CREATIVE and PUMA! Music Runners™ will have a chance to stretch their muscles before the run with a mass Warm-Up session before proceeding onto the 5KM Soundtrack.

The 5KM Sound TrackThe Sound Track™is a five km running course lined with over 120 speakers that pump out the songs Music Runners™ voted for across five different music zones. Each zone will feature cool activations and great photo opportunities for Music Runners™.

The first KM begins with the AIA Rock Highway which will feature a gigantic rock band display where everyone can be a rock star for the day. In the Pop Street, Music Runners™ will be treated to a“red carpet experience” along to the latest pop tunes. In the third KM, runners will be invited to take selfies with old school doppelgangers along Memory Lane, which plays old-school music that often draw cheers from everyone. AirAsia will provide surprises along the AirAsia Hip Hop Alley where only the smoothest R&B and hip hop beats reside. In the final KM, participants will be dancing along to electronic dance hits in the AIA Electric Avenue featuring a pop up disco tunnel and a live DJ in the air.

All the songs that will be pumped out across the 5KM route will be selected by the Music Runners™ themselves through a bespoke voting app developed by Spotify on the official Singapore website. Music Runners can continue running to Spotify after the race. Official sponsor, Singtel, is offering Spotify Premium to Music Runners at an exclusive rate of just $1 for the first 3 months without any data charges on Singtel Music when they sign up for the run.

The After Party Participants returning from their run will join the After Party featuring returning radio house DJ Sam Withers(Aus) who was a big hit in last year’s after-run event, who will be performing the hottest tunes of 2017 at the Ultimate Music Festival. The Music Run™ has been bringing the beat since 2014, winning fans the world over from Texas to Bangkok. Since then, it has drawn more than 100,000 runners across 12 events and nine countries.

Tickets start from SGD 60 and includes a T-shirt,Bag, Sticker, and Tattoos. Event pack collection is from 28-30 April between 10.30am-1 0.30pm at Capitol Piazza B2.

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Kuching: An Untrodden Gem in East Malaysia

You may have heard of Kuching before – from a friend or read about it from some online article. But if you ask around, you may find that not many people know much about this Malaysian city of the state of Sarawak that is separated from the main island. Yes, even their locals have to fly to Kuching if they want to visit it.

So, what is so different about Kuching?

#1 Food

Similar to pretty much the rest of Malaysia, Kuching is a major food destination for those who venture there. Basically, you cannot call yourself a Malaysian food connoisseur if you have not tried the local delights here.

Get yourself started on a bowl of Sarawak laksa, a dish containing vermicelli rice noodles cooked in a shrimp-based broth made from sambal belacan, sour tamarind, garlic, galangal, lemongrass and thickened with coconut milk. Touted as one of celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain’s top 10 dishes – this piping hot bowl is served with a generous amount of bean sprouts, prawns, omelette strips and shredded chicken. The ingredients may sound similar to our kind of laksa but the taste profile is definitely something you need to try.

 Photo Credits: VKeong

Then there is the kolo mee. This simple bowl of yellow noodles that mildly resembles wanton mee consists of yellow egg noodles tossed in a light sauce before it is served with slices of barbecued pork, chicken cutlet or minced meat. The dish usually comes in two flavours – plain or seasoned with red sauce. Some regulars also request it to be seasoned with soya sauce or, in some cases, black vinegar.

 Photo Credits: Vkeong

How about a plate of kway teow (flat rice noodles), served in a tomato-based gravy with vegetables, chicken and seafood? The ones most of us are used to is cooked in a savoury stock broth so Kuching’s version may just give you a different taste on your tongue you may fondly remember for a long time to come.

#2 The People and the Culture

You will notice that Sarawak, in general, still has a good mix of diverse cultures spanning from those of urbanites to various indigenous ones. People are generally nice and friendly and are always happy to help you along the way should you need it. Very much needed in our time and age indeed!

#3 Attractions

Kuching, also known affectionately as “Cat City” (because “Kuching” means “cat” in Malay), sees several cat related features and sightseeing spots all over. The most outstanding one would be the gigantic cat statue that sits in the city centre. There is also a cat museum in suburban Petra Jaya where all you feline lovers can get your fill of all things cat.

Photo Credits: Malaysiazine

Then of course you will also have your historical monuments like the Tua Pek Kong Temple, Fort Margherita and the Sarawak Musuem where you can learn more about the state’s history.

The Performance Series Kuching 2017

Run, explore and taste Kuching town with The Performance Series 2017 happening on the 3rd September 2017! Take a look at the race pack! Earn a stunning finisher tee, a great medal, possibly a personal best and a great experience #TranscendingYourself with your family and friends! What you waiting for? Join in the fun!

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Explore Philippines By Running – 5 Must Do Routes For All Tourists

The first thing most people think of when they hear Philippines is the ultra friendly citizens and the warmest hospitality. What many people may not know still, is their awesome food and beautiful beachside resorts around the country that probably cost a fraction of the price.

If all these are making you eager to head there soon, and you are also interested to get a few runs while you are at it, here are five trails you may like to consider.

#1 The Laguna Trail

Photo Credits: Claire Raborar

If you fancy a relatively short run out of the city with awesome beach views and fresh air, you may like to consider the Laguna Trail. Boasting a 5.2km trail consisting of moderately difficult climbs up and down coastal hills, a run along this route can be refreshing and revitalising for even the most vigorous runner.

#2 The King of the Mountain Trail

Photo Credits: Trover

A trail used for many big marathons throughout the year, this trail, located in Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya, is top on the list of popular running routes because of its varying terrains. The terrains start off easy but do get tougher with a longer route so do take note of that. And it’s perfect for those who want the option of choosing the distance they feel up for at the last minute.

#3 The Pinatubo Eco Trail

Photo Credits: A. Vedarozaga

The name must mean something to those of you who know what happened many years back. Mount Pinatubo is a volcano that erupted in 1991, causing the deaths of more than 350 people living around the area. But don’t let that deter you from paying this trail a visit and doing a run! The trail is 23.2km long and is considered of medium difficulty due to the varying steepness, altitude and terrain. Make sure you are well prepared for these changes though. And of course with everything that has happened, there is much beauty in its scenery to be appreciated along the way.

#4 Itogon, Benguet Trail

Photo Credits: More Dan Travels

Another trail where you can choose to either run on your own (if you know the way well), or explore with any one of the professional runs held there every year. The terrain here is spotty, rough in certain spots and then becoming more narrow and hillier as you proceed. Besides the beautiful scenery you get to enjoy along the way, there is also Baguio city market for an array of local delights to satisfy your hunger and thirst.

5. The Coast to Coast Trail

Photo Credits: Kawasan Falls

This trail is a pretty special one because it ends at a waterfall. Yes, you read right. Covering some of the most beautiful grounds in the Philippines, you can not only expect to enjoy the view as you run, but you can also look forward to a refreshingly cool dip in the majestic Kawasan Waterfall after. However, do keep a watch on the weather when you are planning your run as it can sometimes get too hot or too wet to finish safely.

Read More:

  1. 3 Major Runs in Philippines Not To Be Missed
  2. 5 Singapore Running Routes To Practise Your Hill Runs
  3. 3 Runs in Indonesia You Must Not Miss
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Explore Bali By Running – 5 Must-Do Routes For All Tourists

Many of us travel to Bali when we crave the three ‘S’s – Sun, Sand and Sea. With so many beautiful beaches, great weather (most of the time), awesome scenery and really friendly people, it isn’t a wonder why this Indonesian state is such a favourite amongst tourists looking for some excitement whilst on holiday.
If surfing, jet skiing and banana boating aren’t enough to get your heart pumping and you wish to do more by running, here are 5 routes for you to consider.

#1 Kuta beach

Photo Credits: Indonesia Tourism

There is no way anyone can say they have been to Bali and not know about Kuta beach. Usually packed with tourists and locals alike from about 10am onwards, it is not only a place to get your tan on and perhaps some coconut juice to cool you down. If a run is what yo fancy, you can do a nice leisurely one in the earlier part of the morning (meaning at about 6am), which is probably also the most peaceful part of the day. You can start from the beach in front of Beachwalk Kuta up to W Retreat & Spa in Seminyak and then head back again and TADAH! You would have already done 10km! Or if you like, and don’t mind the crowds, you can always opt for a run at sunset to watch the sun go down.

#2 Denpasar

Photo Credits: Wikivoyage 

Somewhere in the city centre is a group of runners who constantly strive to bring more locals together for a fun run. They are known as the IndoRunners Bali and if you like, you can join them every Thursday at 5.30pm or every Sunday morning at 6am during the Car Free Day. They are super easy to identify with their red t-shirts or green Barong jerseys so there’s no way to miss them when you meet them at the gathering point at the front entrance gate of the legendary Bajra Sandhi Monument inside the Niti Mandala Park in Renon. Oh, and don’t worry about the running paths. The local government has made sure that the pedestrian walkways and tracks for running are super well-maintained!

#3 Nusa Dua

Photo Credits: Static Asia Web

Another well-known tourist spot in Bali, Nusa Dua is home to many lucury hotels and resorts managed by the Bali Tourism Development Centre (BTDC). Because of this, this area is really well-maintained so if you happen to be putting up in this area, you should really give the neat pedestrian paths and ocean-front jogging track a shot. Whichever time of the day you decide to run, you can be sure of beautiful views along the peninsula along the way, resulting in the ultimate stress relief.

#4 Ubud

Photo Credits: Ultimate Bali

If you are looking for somewhere away from the hustle and bustle of the city and where you can perhaps also discover inner peace, Ubud is just the place for you. You can join the Bali Hash House Harriers, an open membership activity club where tourists, expats and locals gather every Monday and Thursday afternoon to enjoy the incredible views of pristine rice terraces and the amazing countryside atmosphere while running along the track. With this run, you will definitely catch a glimpse of unspoilt Bali not everyone has had the opportunity to witness before.

#5 Sanur

Photo Credits: Static Asia Web Direct

For a taste of something more exotic, Sanur has what it takes to repeatedly entice you back to explore its tranquil surroundings. A great spot for casual runners who love awesome scenery while running, the community has erected a flag in Sanur and set the spot to be one of the must-try running tracks every Saturday morning where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset. If you come early, you can start running from the main parking space of Segara Ayu Beach and then head back for an energy-reviving breakfast of Men Weti Chicken Rice. Already sounds like a plan doesn’t it?

Read More:

  1. 5 Races Through Historical Cities
  2. 3 Runs In Indonesia You Must Not Miss
  3. 5 Beaches In Asia For A Great Holiday Run 
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Health Check-Up, Why It Is Necessary!

Whenever you go for any form of a health check, you are bound to hear the doctor telling you that you will need to schedule your next one in six months or a year. Better yet, you may even be told to ensure you get yourself regularly checked to keep your well-being in check.

But is it really necessary to do so so faithfully, whether it is on a bi-annual basis or annual one? Contrary to some people’s ideas that too much of a good thing may not be so beneficial after all, getting your regular health check-up may do you more good than harm. Here are some reasons why.

1: Early detection of any abnormalities can save you!

Photo Credits: TNN 

With the kind of food we consume and our (mostly) sedentary and sometimes even unhealthy lifestyles, there may be things happening within our bodies that we are unaware of. And I’m not talking about the good stuff. With regular health check ups, your doctor will be able to spot early signs of diseases and/or symptoms that are out of whack with your normal bodily functions.

2: To Ensure We Are Treating Our Bodies Right

Sometimes even when we think that we are eating right, exercising right and basically being good to ourselves, we may not be. Your health check up will be able to tell you if your body is reacting well with the your supposed healthy lifestyle or if whatever you are doing isn’t going down well after all.

3: It Helps Answer Questions About Our Bodies That We May Be Curious About

We’ve all been there. Weightloss regimes that used to work but don’t seem to work as well any longer, exercises that used to produce results but don’t seem to do so anymore. What is happening? Is it age? What is wrong with my body? Well, a quick trip to your doctor’s for a health check will answer that. An identification to your issues and some sound advice from a health professional can work wonders to tune your lifestyle according to your changing bodily needs and ultimately make you feel better too.

4: For Peace Of Mind

Possibly the ultimate reason why you, and everybody else for the matter, should go for regular health check-ups. Going for a check up does not mean that there must be something wrong with your health. In fact, those who are generally healthy do so just to make sure that everything is alright so that they can continue on with their lives feeling at peace.

Read More:

  1. What Important Supplements Do Our Body Need As We Age?
  2. 6 Health Benefits Of Honey
  3. Run To Lose Weight Or Lose Weight To Run?
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5 Attractions in Malacca You Should Not Miss

If you are a Singaporean – or Malaysian for that matter – you most probably have been to Malacca before to enjoy the food and sights. If you have not been to this little piece of Peranakan Malaysia land, you may want to book your tickets there as soon as you can. It’s a gem.

Here are 5 attractions you must check out when you are there.

#1 Jonker Street

I love this street because it represents Malacca, especially in the food aspect. Once renowned for its antique shops, it now sees rows of clothing and craft outlets, including restaurants. For Singaporeans, it is almost like our Chinatown. Make sure you give yourself Friday and Saturday evenings off when you are there because that is when the night markets go into full force, selling anything from local tasty treats to cheap keepsakes. Whether you are there for the food or shopping or just to take in the sights and sounds, you will be pleasantly overwhelmed by the atmosphere of the street.

  Photo Credits: Malacca.ws

#2 Christ Church

This is probably the first place most visitors visit as soon as they arrive in Malacca. Situated along Jalan Gereja, this structure was built by the Dutch when they took possession of Malacca from the Portuguese. Today it stands as one of the state’s most defining building. How most people recognise this landmark is by the red bricks that the structure is constructed of. If you have the chance to look inside the cathedral, you will be treated to sights of 200-year old handmade pews, decorative fanlights and plaques that honour the Dutch soldiers and locals.

  Photo Credits: Malacca.ws

#3 A’Famosa Fort

If you have been here before, you will know that this place is well-known for its canons. Yes, real canons. This is because A’Famosa was originally constructed by Alfonso de Albuquerque, the man who led the Malacca invasion of the Malacca Sultanate, and used to sprawl across a whole hillside. Now, all that’s left is a lone gate (Porta de Santiago), and and a whitewashed gatehouse. Still, a great place to go visit to get a feel of how it was like back then and of course, fantastic photography opportunities.

  Photo Credits: Kota Lodge

#4 Melaka Sultanate Palace

A building that was painstakingly constructed in 1985 using traditional construction techniques and materials, the Melaka Sultanate Palace is a wooden replica of Sultan Mansur Shah’s 15th century palace. Set at the base of St. Paul’s hill, this is a great structure to visit if you are looking for something a little more local and kampung style.

  Photo Credits: gomelaka

#5 Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum

Singapore has the Peranakan Museum, Malacca has its Baba Nyonya Museum. And the thing about the one in Malacca is that it speaks of the state’s inherent culture because, well, Malacca IS the Peranakan state of Malaysia. Besides seeing it in their food, you will also be able to find out the culture, beliefs and traditional outfits of the babas and nyonyas on a regular day and when they get married. Especially if you are Peranakan yourself, this experience may just allow you to discover so much more about the traditions that have been passed down from your forefathers to you.

  Photo Credits: Malacca.ws

You may also be interested in:

  1. 5 Reasons You Should Visit the Pearl of Orient – Penang
  2. Top 5 Reasons Why Singaporeans Love to Run in Kota Kinabalu 
  3. 5 Sold Out Marathons In The World
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My NTUC Income Run 2017 [HM] (by Lingderella)

(Featured Photo Credits: Eugene Tan)

Income Eco Run is a running event with a cause to raise awareness for everyone to play a part in conserving the environment. It was previously known as NTUC Income Run 350 but renamed to Income Eco Run to call for the action for the runners to run towards “zero waste”, which “zero waste” is actually impossible because breathing out carbon dioxide is also already producing “waste” in a way right? LOL! It’s nice that this run is encouraging people to run towards zero waste such as opting into no finisher medals for the run and no finisher tee for the half marathon runners.

[Race Categories and Fees]

Thank you JustRunLah! for the race slot! I registered for the 21.1km category, there’s 10km individual and team categories and also the 800m kids dash. The registration fees is considered fairly cheap if you are a NTUC member or Income Policy holder and register as priority. But if is a public and register not as priority or early bird rate I feel that it’s pretty expensive too!

[Race Singlet and other entitlements]

Woohooo! Race singlet is by New Balance! ? It’s similar to the previous year race tee, in bright orange but last year the sponsor is Mizuno and it’s New Balance this year. I’ve noticed that New Balance race singlets are always smaller in cuttings compared to other race singlets, at least I can still manage to squeeze in the singlet but I don’t really like tight fitting clothes, only with myself to blame as I don’t usually check the sizes but I guess many other runner don’t check too as I’ve seen many runners posting in forums to exchange the singlet size. Or maybe its a just sign that I need to watch my diet or start running more already ? The race pack comes along with other sponsored products and there’s e-certificate for the runners as an entitlement, I really appreciate runs with e-cert as I will keep the soft copy of the e-cert as a memento. Runners who opted in to be a zero waste runner received a handheld water bottle along with the race pack so that on race day, they can bring along the bottle with them to refill water at the hydration points along the running route to cut down the use of disposable cups and they get a limited edition print on their running tee as a recognition for their effort to be a zero waste runner. I can opt out of the finisher tee but I really can’t resist medals. But in my everyday life, I try to do a part in saving the environment such as decline plastic bags when I buy some things.

[My Race Pack collection]


Thank you my dear Willis for accompanying me for the race pack collection though he didn’t run. The Race Pack collection is a smooth and fast one with no queue at all, though it’s at the same place at F1 Pit Building just like Sundown’s race pack collection too but this race pack collection is a much much much far better experience. Its indoors and there’s air conditioning. Phew! I went on Saturday, at the second day or the REPC and the process of collection is fast and I get to enjoy the booths, bought Compressports calves sleeves, participate in Garmin’s lucky draw and got a drawstring back, joined the New Balance’s mailing list and got a super nice shoe bag, We then walk shop around the Farmer’s Market, its like a mini “flea market” selling green products and also organic food and snacks. Bought a bottle of chilli sauce and shared with Willis a super yummy cup of jackfruit ice cream. There is also a huge eco structure at the REPC with the runner’s name and I found my name in just a while!

[On Race Day]

On race day I took a grab down as shuttle bus is not available near my home and I will have to walk 2km to the nearest MRT station that offers shuttle service. Since grabshare is only $13 and I can own time own target, sleep till I happy happy then chop chop prepare and go.

Once reached F1 pit building, deposited my bag and it’s super fast as there is no queue at all and head directly over to the start pen though it’s only 4.20am, but the start pen is already opened ? It’s a very stuffy and humid morning, it’s so warm and the air breathe in is warm ? Saw many familiar running friends and chatted while we wait to flag off ?

Flag off is on time and there were pacers for different timing available for us to follow but it’s really not easy to identify them because all the pacers used the same colour balloons. It would be better if they had used different colour balloons for us to identify them. But now I try to avoid following the pacers as I find the atmosphere quite stressful and tense around the pacers as runners try to keep up with their pace.

Really appreciate the Organisers as I realised that they had placed floor boards at some areas so we can avoid any muddy trails when at certain runs they did not put the floor boards end up runners will either destroy the grasses or their shoes will get dirty with mud. But the last part where they covered the stairs leading up to the Helix Bridge is really too steep ?

It’s the usual almost similar route to many other runs but luckily no east coast park at all. I’m about to get bored soon with the usual route, usual landmarks and usual scenery. Luckily I have upcoming overseas run if not really will get sian by always running at the same places. Was thinking that it will be interesting if any of the runs can introduce new routes such as running pass City Hall or Orchard Road or even a run from Jurong to Tampines etc ?

There’s enough hydration points and almost one at every 2km apart. Also every alternate hydration point there is 100plus available. I only stopped at the hydration points with 100plus as it’s cold but the water isn’t cold. Still hoping that some days there would be chilled Milo at hydration points ? For the half marathon route, I’ve noticed there is one hydration point which offered banana and gel. At the end of the hydration points, there are dispensers for the water/100plus so that runners who brought along their bottle could dispense water into their bottle and not using the disposable cups.

(Like a mini fan when saw Dr Mok Ying Ren, congrats on his podium winning! ?)

The last few kms I walked a lot. Maybe is just the lack of determination and motivation as I’m already content with my timing. My watch showed that the route is shorter than 21.1km and my friends also shared that their sports watch showed shorter distance too.

This is my 4th half marathon this year and it’s the 2nd best timing I’ve ever gotten out of my total of 11 half marathons. Collected my finisher entitlements (medal, banana, finisher tee, 100plus) and went to look for my friends. Though there’s the race village but I didn’t really explore it as I guess that looking for breakfast is more important ? Overall it’s a great running event ?

(Thank you are Center Piece Floral for the flowers ?)

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Income Eco Run 2017: Results and Race Video Report

[SINGAPORE, 30 April 2017 – Press release] – Close to 10,000 participants raced the streets this morning towards a ‘Zero Waste’ future at the Income Eco Run (formerly known as the NTUC Income RUN 350, organised by Young NTUC). Runners from all walks of lives participated in various categories- the 21.1km Half Marathon, 10km and the 800m Kids Dash – in support of the common cause and was flagged off at the F1 Pit Building.

This year’s Income Eco Run saw a special group of 1,500 runners who took their commitment to the ‘green’ cause to the next level by racing as ‘Zero Waste Runners’. These runners opted not to receive their respective finishers’ entitlements (medal for all categories and a finisher’s tee for the 21.1 km Half Marathon category) in a bid to reduce waste. As a result, 87.8kg of fabric and 150kg of metal were saved.

It was the first time the race introduced the option for runners to race as a ‘Zero Waste Runner’ and it was fully subscribed before registration closed at the start of April.

Double SEA Games Gold Medalist in the Triathlon (2007) and Marathon (2013) events, Mok Ying Ren (managed by ONEathlete), raced as a ‘Zero Waste Runner’. He shared, ” I’m very happy that I placed first in the 21.1km local category. I just started training again, so I’m quite pleased with my timing! Running as a ‘Zero Waste Runner’ was actually refreshing to see fewer cups on the road after the race! I run home after work regularly as part of my longer distance training. And I use my own bottle during these runs just like today. I believe that these efforts, though small, enable us to be environmentally conscious, and helps in the larger-scale-of things towards reducing carbon emissions and zero waste. Doing good is now made simple, isn’t it?”

As the pioneer of eco-races in Singapore, Income Eco Run adopted eco-friendly practices for different aspects of the race. They included encouraging runners to bring their own bottles (BYO) to reduce the use of plastic bottles and paper cups, giving out post-run e-certificates, producing finisher medals from recycled metal and using bio-diesel fuel for the generators. The event also readily offered sorting cans for trash to be recycled and provided bicycle racks on race day to encourage participates to cycle to the race venue. Participants were also encouraged to carpool or to take the shuttle bus services to the event.

Reinforcing Income’s commitment for a ‘Zero Waste’ future, a ‘green’ audit, carried out by Green Future Solutions, was conducted today to set environmental benchmarks for improvements year on year. The ‘green’ audit^ focused on two main areas- waste and energy, and the results are targeted to be available by end May.

Mr Marcus Chew, Income’s Chief Marketing Officer, said: “We set out to take ownership of the race this year to champion a sustainable future, which is aligned to our core business of making insurance not just accessible, but sustainable, for all in Singapore so that we can be more future ready. We are heartened by the level of participation in this ‘green’ run, especially the eager subscription for the ‘Zero Waste Runner’ category. This shows that many of us are ready to do our part for a sustainable future. With the ‘green’ audit, we look forward to doing more for our collective eco cause and to inspire and encourage others to do more to protect our environment.”

The Run today was graced by various ‘green’ partners who flagged off the race alongside Income’s Chief Marketing Officer, Marcus Chew. This included MsSharmine Tan, Manager (Environmental Outreach), Singapore Environment Council and Mr Eugene Tay, Executive Director, Zero Waste Singapore.

Mr Lee Kheng Seng, Director, Communications and 3P Partnership Division, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, said: “The Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources (MEWR) would like to commend NTUC Income on the Income Eco Run 2017 in bringing together runners and environmental enthusiasts with a common goal of moving towards a zero-waste nation. The Ministry supports the ground-up initiative in promoting the Sustainable Singapore Movement and in setting an environmental benchmark for other marathon organisers to emulate.”

33-year-old Kenyan, James Barmasai who placed first in the 21.1km Open category shared, “I am feeling great about my win! I expected to win because I trained hard for it. The route was well planned.”

Jasmine Goh, a familiar face in Singapore’s running scene was placed twice in the Income Eco Run by clinching third place in the 21.1km Open category and the 21.1km Local Champion. The 38-year-old said, “Overall my race experience was enjoyable! The Income Eco Run has a great eco positioning this year, too! In terms of my performance, I expected to run well and do my best. It also helped that the weather was great!”

Runners were brought on a scenic race route as they raced through Gardens By The Bay, Marina Barrage and The Singapore Flyer.

Race Results

21.1km Open Category (Male)

Position Name Gun Time
1st James Barmasai 1:07:21
2nd Kipchirchir Lel 1:08:16
3rd James Maregu 1:08:58

 

21.1km Open Category (Female)

Position Name Gun Time
1st Monica Watetu 1:20:42
2nd Margaret Njuguna. Wangui 1:23:14
3rd Jasmine Goh 1:28:00

 

21.1km Local Champion

Position Name Gun Time
1st  (Male) Mok Ying Ren 1:16:56
1st (Female) Jasmine Goh 1:28:00

 

10km Open Category (Male)

Position Name Gun Time
1st Dennis Isika 33:40
2nd Suresh Tilija 34:06
3rd Banjamin Quek 35:42

 

10km Open Category (Female)

Position Name Gun Time
1st Vanja Cnops 38:45
2nd Rachel Oconnor 39:43
3rd Maire Eilis Nic Amhlaoibh 40:37

 

10km Local Champion

Position Name Gun Time
1st  (Male) Banjamin Quek 35:42
1st (Female) Yew Cheo Ng 44:54

 

10km Team Category

Position Name Gun Time
1st  Singapore Shufflers 37:15

 

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RUNRIO Trilogy Reboot 2017

     THE PHILIPPINES’ most popular running trilogy gets a reboot as it enters its eighth season.  Runners of all levels will surely be kept busy for the rest of 2017 as RUNRIO Events formally announced its calendar recently.

As always, the trilogy will seek to guide participants as they progress to longer and more challenging distances from leg to leg.  The series begins with a 21-kilometer race on June 25 followed by a 32-kilometer race on August 13 and culminating with the 42.195-kilometer Philippine Marathon on October 1.

For the opening leg, all distance categories will start and end and the spanking new Okada Manila complex.  Aside from the half-marathon, runners may opt to join the 10 and five-kilometer races.

Online registration is now ongoing at www.runrio.com while onsite registration will kick off on May 6 at adidas stores located at Greenbelt III, Trinoma, Solenad 3, Bonifacio Global City and at Toby’s inside SM Mall of Asia.  The race kit consists of an adidas race shirt and race bib with timing device.

Half-marathon finishers will be awarded medals, shirts and loot bags.  For the first time, 10-kilometer runners will also earn medals on top of their loot bag.

Race fees are set at PHP 1,800.00 for 21 kilometers, PHP 1,400.00 for 10 kilometers and PHP 1,100.00 for five kilometers.  Race kits will be released from June 19 to 23 at the venue indicated by the runner on the registration or on race day itself at the race village.

Starting this year, the third leg or the Philippine Marathon will now have IAAF/AIMS certification just like the major marathons overseas.  Another major development that should make a lot of runners happy is that prizes will be awarded to the top finishers according to age group.

All runners that complete the longest distances in all three legs will be invited to an awards night, a tradition that was discontinued in 2013 but will be making a grand return this time around.  All three medals can be interlocked to form one large medal, a practice that has been a staple since the 2012 season.

Coach Rio de la Cruz also introduced new business partners Andrew Neri and Dingdong Dantes as they form the rejuvenated RUNRIO Events Incorporated.  Neri brings with him years of experience as a corporate executive while Dantes, a popular movie and television actor, will act as ambassador for the company’s events.

Aside from being an ambassador, Dantes is the founding chairperson of the YesPinoy Foundation which has been chosen to be the beneficiary of RUNRIO races.  The foundation will definitely get a big boost in furthering its philanthropic projects since an estimated 12,000 runners are seen to participate in each of three legs.

In between trilogy legs, a good selection of races will be around to make sure runners stay sharp.  The 41st MILO Marathon regional qualifiers will form bulk of these events but runners can look forward to other RUNRIO franchises plus the company’s first ever ultra marathon on October 15 in Siargao Island.

As is the case in most RUNRIO races, registration is expected to go fast so go to the nearest registration center or go online and sign up now!  Here is the RUNRIO calendar for the balance of 2017:

Date Event Date Event
11-Jun Freedom Run (CdeO) 1-Oct PHILIPPINE MARATHON
25-Jun RUNRIO TRILOGY LEG I MILO Marathon Roxas
16-Jul MILO Marathon Urdaneta 8-Oct Amway Health Run (Manila)
23-Jul Siargao International Marathon MILO Marathon Iloilo
MILO Marathon Laoag 15-Oct Siargao Ultra Marathon
30-Jul MILO Marathon Metro Manila 22-Oct MILO Marathon General Santos
6-Aug MILO Marathon Angeles 28-Oct Cosplay Exporun
13-Aug RUNRIO TRILOGY LEG II 29-Oct Amway Health Run (Davao)
MILO Marathon Tarlac 5-Nov Amway Health Run (CdeO)
20-Aug Kagay-an Festival Run (CdeO) MILO Marathon Davao
27-Aug MILO Marathon Naga 12-Nov New Balance Power Run
3-Sep MILO Marathon Lucena MILO Marathon Butuan
UNICEF Run For Heroes 19-Nov MILO Marathon Cagayan de Oro
10-Sep MILO Marathon Lipa 25-Nov Clark Sunset Marathon
Resorts World Run With Me 3-Dec MILO Marathon National Finals (Cebu)
24-Sep MILO Marathon Tagbilaran
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Bring It On Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2017: Top Marathoners Battle It Out

The heat is on at the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2017. Being the biggest marathon in Malaysia, this will be the race that the top Malaysian marathoners will compete and battle it out. In addition to the prestige of being crowned Champion, this year, the Malaysian elites will have the added bonus of earning the honour of obtaining a potential spot at the SEA Games 2017! SEA games this year will be on home ground, making representing Malaysia even sweeter!

“We are really looking forward to a hotly contested SCKLM 2017, especially in the Malaysian Men’s Full Marathon Category,” said Rainer Biemans, Director of Dirigo Events and Project Director of SCKLM 2017. “This augurs well for our event as one of our key objectives has been to raise the competitive level of the SCKLM. And as the selection for the SEA Gamesis only finalised in July, these runners will be eager to push hard to try to earn selection,” he added.

Muhaizar Mohamad

Muhaizar has dominated the Men’s Marathon in the last couple of years. The defending champion aims to better his personal best (2:39:24) at this years SCKLM.  The Armed Forces personnel largely trains on his own but a short stint under Mark Williams (the Official Running Coach that runs SCKLM’s Running Clinics), enabled him to achieve his personal best at last year’s SCKLM.

“I don’t have a personal coach so it’s going to be tough for me to post faster times. I realised how much a coach could help me when I trained under Mark Williams. The plan he devised is what helped me to achieve my fastest time so far at last year’s SCKLM,” said Muhaizar. “But as the SEA Games is on home soil this year, I will be going all out in SCKLM 2017 to hopefully beat my personal best and qualify for the Games,” he added.

Mohd Jironi Riduan

Jironi is no strange face to the SEA Games, being a gold medalist himself at the middle distance 800m and 1500m. He ran a 2:39:58 in his marathon debut at the SCKLM 2016. Although still well under the qualifying mark, his impressive debut really shows that there will be more to come from this man. He is focused on delivering his best at the upcoming SCKLM and hopes that this will put him in contention for the upcoming SEA games.

Tan Huong Leong

Setting the new Malaysian Record in the Tokyo Marathon 2017 with a blistering time of 2:28:19, his name has been flagged as the man to watch. Coming in 2nd runner up in the last couple of years, he hopes training under Taiwanese distance coach Lim Chen Ming will bring him the Champion title this year, and also the chance to run for Malaysia. Tan his 2:28 timing in much cooler conditions, so it would be interesting to see how fast he can go in the sweltering conditions in Kuala Lumpur.

Sheela Samivellu

Sheela smashed the National Record of the half marathon back in SCKLM 2016. She certainly will be one to watch.

“I started running when I was five and the journey continues. What started as a means to be happy and to reduce stress has become something more serious now. Breaking the national record at SCKLM2016 was the proudest moment in my career so far and I hope I can finish just as strongly this year as that would put me in a good position for the SEA Games in August,” said Sheela.

The Standard Chartered KL Marathon has grown to become the premier running event in Malaysia that draws thousands of local and international runners to the country whilst firmly establishing Malaysia in the global running calendar. The 2017 edition of the race will once again see sponsorship from Title Sponsor Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia, along with Honda Malaysia, Brooks, Lucozade, Seiko and Pacific Regency.

Elite runners will be competing to earn a slice of the almost RM500,000 in total that is on offer at the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2017,which include bonus prizes for record breaking course times.

For more information and updates on SCKLM, please visit:

Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/SCKLmarathon
Twitter : www.twitter.com/SCKLmarathon
Instagram : https://instagram.com/SCKLmarathon
Website : www.kl-marathon.com

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Join The Media Launch Of Star Wars Day: May The 4th Be With You Festival

Join us at the May The 4th Festival – a 3 day Star Wars extravaganza, and the very first in Singapore might we add. STAR WARS ─ one of the most successful movie franchises has amassed an empire of fans and followers from all walks of life. Come join all Star Wars followers on the path of a Jedi at the Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay. The venue will be transformed with an immersive experience that brings you to a galaxy far, far away.

The Media Launch

Guest of Honour, Mr S. Iswaran, Minister for Trade and Industry will launch the 3-day festival with the Garden Rhapsody: STAR WARS Edition – a music and light composition set against the epic STAR WARS soundtrack. Also, catch the epic Sabertrees light up which will be South East Asia’s largest light sabre activation. Also, take the opportunity to get up close and personal with the towering replica of the All-Terrain Scout Transport (AT-ST)

Details

Date: 4th May 2017,Thursday
Time: 5.40pm – 8.30pm
Venue: Visitor Centre at Arrival Area, Gardens by the Bay
18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

 

For More about the 3 Day Star Wars Singapore Festival, click here!

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Get active with Google Street View and JustRunLah!

Get up close with Singapore’s nature and parks with Google Street View

Singapore, 27 April 2017 – Today, Google announced that Special Collections from 30 newly mapped locations in Singapore are now available on Google Street View, allowing users from Singapore and around the world to explore a 360˚ panoramic view of the City in the Garden, bringing the total number of Street View locations to 85 in Singapore.

Using Street View on desktop or Google Maps for Mobile available on iOS and Android, nature-loving cyclists can now plan their bike expedition routes along Coney Island Park, Punggol Waterway Park or the Youth Olympic Park. Those who are looking at planning a holiday getaway can also preview top tourist attractions such as Resorts World Sentosa and Universal Studios Singapore. While arts and heritage buffs will be able to step into National Gallery Singapore and the Singapore Art Museum, any time of the day.

Cynthia Wei of Google with trail runners Paviter Singh and Ben Heyhoe Flint.

Cynthia Wei, Street View Program Manager, APAC, said “Singapore is a top Asian destination for tourists worldwide and having the newly added Special Collections on Street View will give tourists a first glance of what our city has to offer. Many people have told us that Street View helps them in their trip planning when they’re deciding places to visit while on holiday.”

Google to work with JustRunLah! to map over 30 running routes covering more than 400 km in Singapore on Street View

We are happy to be teaming up with Google to capture Street View imagery for running tracks along parks and nature spaces around Singapore. Runners from our community are coming on board to contribute and expand on the Street View imagery around Singapore, capturing over 30 running routes in Singapore covering more than 400 km. From Botanic Gardens to Mount Faber Park and to MacRitchie Reservoir, they will be donning Google’s Street View trekker equipped with special cameras that take photographs of various running trails popular among Singaporeans.

The idea to start this project actually stemmed from our friend and community member Ben Heyhoe Flint, who once had tried to plot a way to run off-road from Seletar to Dempsey. It took him 45 minutes of stitching together reference points from Google Earth, Google Map and our own JustRunLah! resources to work out a route. This sparked a thought that there had to be a more efficient way of navigating trails that were common, as well as those that weren’t. Together with his running buddy, Paviter Singh, a Singaporean ultra-marathoner, they thought to link up the Street View team with JustRunLah! in order to provide a new valuable resource to the active community of Singapore.

Peter Tan, Managing Director of JustRunLah! said “While Singapore is a small country, there are numerous running trails that our community has discovered, and capturing this online is a great way for us to share these hidden gems with more people. As a fitness portal that connects active individuals, we hope to make these lesser known places available to the public and encourage all Singaporeans – young and old – to get active by using Google Street View to help them plan an outdoor workout that best suits their fitness goals and lifestyles.”

Cynthia added, “Since 2009, Singaporeans have been using the panoramic street-level images on Google Maps to navigate and figure out driving directions around the city. While Street View has proven to be a useful tool for drivers, we’d love to make it more relevant for Singaporeans who are passionate about running and looking for new places to explore. We’re looking forward to working closely with JustRunLah! to capture new imagery of running tracks that are off the beaten path and help get Singaporeans more active with Street View.”

Ben in Southern Ridges

A great tool for runners to discover new routes

The newly collected images and mapped trails will be embedded in JustRunLah!’s online resource Singapore Running Routes database, which provides vital information to runners, such as route accessibility, surface profile, availability of nearby facilities (showers, lockers) etc. Some early integration examples include the Botanic Gardens and MacRitchie Reservoir, using imagery previously collected by the Google team.

Andreas Karampatzakis, Technical Director of JustRunLah! said “Capturing 360o imagery of Singapore’s trails and routes will be a great addition to our online resources for runners. Currently, we have interactive listings of most Singapore’s routes; with the new data coming in, runners of any level can plan their training more efficiently and know what to expect once they are out on the trails.”

We are looking for volunteers!

If you are interested in helping us with this project and you feel comfortable walking 5-10km with a 20kg equipment on your back, click here to contact us now!

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