The Marathon You Shouldn’t Miss In 2016

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January 9, 2016

12440485_901649009890286_6132904538243278435_o — Photo credit: Sundown Marathon Facebook Page

Hands up if your New Year resolution is to complete a marathon.

Now, there are so many out there to choose from. If you were to extend that overseas, there’s going to be way more options available. To make choosing easier for you guys, we’ve narrowed down the options to present you the one marathon you should never, ever miss – the OSIM Sundown Marathon 2016, Asia’s largest night-marathon.

Newbies, ‘siao-on’ runners, budget students… This race is the one for everyone. Let us tell you why.

For hardcore challengers:

When night falls, our body starts to switch into sleep mode. During which, there is a general loss of skeletal muscle tone and active sympathetic nervous system. Let’s break this down. Muscle tone is a continuous and passive part of your muscle that contracts. This contraction acts as a resistance when your muscle experiences a sudden stretch or pull. It protects your muscles! Then we have the sympathetic nervous system that speeds up your heart rate and gets more blood and oxygen throughout your body. That’s important when you’re running. All these tend to shut down when night falls and your body clock tunes to sleep mode. So I’m not saying that the Sundown is a road to death but it’s going to take training, which also makes it perfect for those who loves a challenge.

For all ages and levels:

Sundown has grown from a humble 6,000 participants in its first year to an expected 30,000 in 9 years. Starting as an ultramarathon event in its first year, the organisers have progressively introduced more race categories for everybody to participate. So, regardless of your current level as a runner, this year you can experience racing safely in the heart of Singapore in the wee hours by going for either a Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km or 5km. What’s more, since last year, kids from age of 6 years old and up can take part in the 5km fun run!

For value hunters:

Races typically range about $50-$100. Those culminate to paying for the race route, the sports singlets and most importantly, race logistics. Everything from baggage collection to ensuring your welfare during the run itself is covered. Imagine how much more needs to be done for a night race! There has got to be proper lighting, more water points and first aid-ers readying at every turn. For Sundown to be offered at a similar price range as any other race but with so much more, it’s definitely “value for money.”

Well, truth is we all have various reasons for why we choose to join a race and why that particular race. So you might end up signing up for this marathon, or you might turn around and end up with another. It’s all up to you, the runner. The good news is that if you think Sundown is for you, we have a discount code for you!

We are pleased to offer our readers special Loyalty Rates from now till 31 March 2016. Use code OSDM2016LRJUSTRUNLAH during check out to enjoy the discount! Click here to sign up

JustRunLah! is proud to be Running Portal Partner of Sundown Marathon 2016.

From your bed to the park, what effort it takes…

By

Shu

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January 8, 2016

A woman runs through Victoria Park at sunrise in Leicester — A man runs through Victoria Park at sunrise in Leicester, central England, October 14, 2015. REUTERS/Darren Staples TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Getting out of your bed to go for a morning run or jog may seem like an uphill task to some, but sometimes all you have to do is to convince yourself to just do it… Or basically, just run lah! Here are 6 simple steps you can take to make things easier for you when you want to go for a morning run. It does not require too much effort, as long as you set your mind to do it. Theres’ nothing bad about going for a morning run to enjoy the fresh morning air and morning breeze!

Cover photo credits: Darren Staples/Reuters

Win a free slot for Safari Zoo Run 2016

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 8, 2016

Safari Zoo Run is back!

Don’t miss the one and only chance you get to run through the zoo! Safari Zoo Run was conceived to commemorate Singapore Zoo’s famous matriarch and one of Singapore’s most loved animal personalities — Ah Meng the Sumatran orang utan. This year, the event is happening on the 27th and 28th February and includes 10km, 5.5km and 2.5 (Family/Kids) races.

We are happy to be giving away four (4) free slots to this event to our readers for the category of their choice. Fill in the form below to take part in the contest!

The contest has ended. Thank you.

More info: Official Race Website

YHS signs National Marathoner Soh Rui Yong as Brand Ambassador for H-TWO-O/Yeo’s in Support of Road to Rio

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 8, 2016

Soh Rui Yong 2 — Singapore national marathoner Soh Rui Yong will incorporate popular isotonic drink H-TWO-O/Yeo’s in his hydration plans for trainings leading up to the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Local leading food and beverage company, YHS, has signed national marathoner Soh Rui Yong as their brand ambassador for popular isotonic drink H-TWO-O/Yeo’s. The company, with 116 years of heritage, aims to empower athletes like Rui Yong, who are bold enough to take the next step to fulfil their dream of making a name for themselves in the international sporting arena.

YHS believes that Rui Yong’s “never give up” attitude and his perseverance to always push himself to improve is a true embodiment of the brand’s philosophy. After winning the gold medal in the men’s marathon at the 28th South-east Asian Games, Rui Yong is now ready to conquer a bigger race – the upcoming Rio Olympics marathon.

“Rui Yong is a talented and diligent athlete with a promising running career. As a Singapore grown company, we want to support our local athlete to elevate his sports performance to the next level. Rui Yong’s determination and perseverance is an inspiration to all of us and these qualities resonate with the H-TWO-O brand value and spirit.” said Mr Melvin Teo, Group CEO of YHS.

Singapore national marathoner Soh Rui Yong will be the new face to front popular isotonic drink H-TWO-O/Yeo’s 2016 ad campaign for local leading food and beverage company, YHS.

The 24-year-old runner is currently preparing to qualify for the upcoming Rio Olympics marathon. He is very excited and grateful for his new sponsorship.

“The story of a Singaporean company supporting the dreams of a Singaporean athlete is one I am very happy to be a part of. Including the H-TWO-O/Yeo’s drinks as part of my hydration regimen will definitely help me in my training and competition. I look forward to helping the Yeo’s brand grow as I pursue my Olympic quest.”

As an ambassador of YHS, Rui Yong will be promoting the brand and sharing his hydration plans for his training and competitions on social media. Rui Yong will also be the new face to front H-TWO-O/Yeo’s ad campaign for 2016.

Let’s show support of Soh Rui Yong’s road to Rio and his ultimate goal of being the first man from Singapore to qualify for the marathon at the Olympics!

All photo credits to: Black Dot

Rail Corridor To Transform Into 24-km Elevated Park Across Singapore

By

Shu

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January 7, 2016

Previously, we received news about the closure of Rail Corridor from 2016 to 2019 for construction work for new underground water pipeline. But the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Singapore has even bigger plans for the Rail Corridor – to recreate the green scenic place as a seamless and comfortable shared space for walking, jogging and cycling.

It will become Singapore’s new elevated park, spanning 24 km around Singapore. This will be 10 times as long as the successful High Line Park in Manhattan. The park will connect the Tanjong Pagar railway station to Kranji. The route will pass through residential neighbourhoods like Bukit Timah and Choa Chu Kang along the way.

There will be over 120 access points, and includes 21 platforms with toilets and rest areas.

“Where the former railway line divides communities, the rail corridor now has the potential to become an inclusive public space that connects communities,” says See Nin Tan, senior director at Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment Authority.

Part of the corridor will feature panoramic views of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.

The preliminary design includes eight distinctively-themed stretches along the entire Rail Corridor, each embodying a unique characteristic of the Corridor. For example, at Stagmont Ring which is near the residential community, can offer more community oriented amenities such as playgrounds, community farming plots and fishing ponds. This ensures the preservation of the entire Rail Corridor, while developing each segment according to its unique characteristics.

For the segment of land at Choa Chu Kang between the Rail Corridor and Pang Sua Canal, a housing design will be integrated with the Rail Corridor, with an extensive public space that allows residents to appreciate the enhanced greenery of the Rail Corridor from various heights through sky links and bridges.

One section of the corridor passes under a viaduct and will become a “passage of light” with interactive lighting.

Cementing connectivity and heritage of the Rail Corridor

URA has begun the process for the conservation of the two steel truss bridges along the Rail Corridor. The bridges are important landmarks that once facilitated the seamless transport of passengers and goods along the Corridor. They were traditionally used as locational markers for the 7th mile and 9th mile of Bukit Timah Road. They are now beloved railway artefacts that capture Singapore’s railway history, and they will become important connectors for users of the Rail Corridor.

If you are not convinced, think of the engineering and architecture marvels we already have in Singapore such as Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade, Singapore Indoor Stadium, Southern Ridges; this may just be another breakthrough in our architectural icons. If it does succeed as planned, the new Rail Corridor will definitely be a dream come true for runners and cyclists in Singapore.

All designs / artwork credit to Nikken Sekkei

Running Late

By

SY

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January 7, 2016

MBS — Sunrise greeting all 10k runners at SCMS 2015.

I am a late bloomer as far as running is concerned.

My previous post chronicled my first HM experience and also briefly mentioned how I started my running journey. Like many other runners, I also reflected on my runs and races in 2015. It was a pivotal year for me. After a year of running, I had a modest haul of medals and collected a few finisher tees; not forgetting clocking some personal best timings. Here is a quick summary of 2015.

1 podium finish
2 long distance races
3 finisher tees
4 personal records
5 10k finisher medals
10 official finishes

For more than 5 decades, running wasn’t my forte. Then in 2014, I made an important decision to sign up for SCMS2014 – my first official race ever. It became a turning point in my life. But then, being a senior beginner, I was looking for resources to help me take up running as a serious sport. I could not look to my friends for help as most are somewhat physically inactive; let alone run or jog. I trawled the Web for good running resources but these were few and far between. So, my 2015 running journey was one of trial and error.

After a year of hits and misses, here are 10 lessons (there could be more) I learnt that may be of help to the more senior folks who are contemplating taking up jogging/running this year.

You can actually teach your body to run – educate it.
You can run longer than you think you can – start slow and short.
You can run without music in your ears – listen to your body.
You discover that 10km is a recovery run – run long and easy.
You need to refuel and hydrate during your long runs – have a strategy.
You can improve even when you are senior runner – read up and resource yourself.
You can enjoy and run injury free – do your research.
You need to space out your runs – watch your recovery.
You get to try different running routes – add variety to your runs.
You need to choose your races – enjoy running company.

So you see, it is still possible for someone who is in his fifties to start running. For those of you who are still hesitant about running in your senior years, I trust that my sharing can help encourage and prod you along. Not only will it transform your life, it will also make you fitter and leaner! But do your homework first; consult your doctor if you need to. Lace up your shoes, gear up and hit the road with youthful gusto . Running will make you feel young again!

runner — Photo from my Instagram @twtwriter

I am looking forward to 2016 with much anticipation. Told myself that I won’t chase after medals and finisher tees anymore but will still beat my own personal timings for 5k, 10k and 21k. I will go beyond my comfort zone (maybe attempt a FM), look for new running routes and hope to make new friends. I am expecting new challenges as set new goals for 2016. All in all, I want to do the following:

Strengthen core
Build speed
Run long
Race less
Eat healthy

But above, stay injury-free so that I can all run into my golden years – literally.

Blessed New Year & 2016 to all fellow runners – run happy, run safe and just run lah!

5 Reasons Why Every Singaporean Should Start Running

By

Shu

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January 7, 2016

BackNext

5. Run anytime (…haze permitting)

Last year 2015, we had a bad prolonged period of haze. We will never know exactly when the haze will hit us again, or how bad the haze may be the next time. So, enjoy the clear weather while we can and just run lah!

Quick links:

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10 Standard Chartered Marathon Events You Might Not Know Exist

By

Shu

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January 6, 2016

Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore is the biggest running event in Singapore every year, but what do you know about Standard Chartered marathons in other cities? There are a total of 10 Standard Chartered Marathon events in 10 different cities. In fact, all of the 10 races have their own unique characteristics and showcase each city’s beautiful landmarks. This means that other than the Singapore Marathon, we have 9 other Standard Chartered Marathons to conquer! Find out more about each of the races in this infographic below:

Quick links:

CEO of Facebook loves running and his resolutions for you are…

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 6, 2016

12183711_10102441820533871_3682004750085827784_o — Photo credit: Mark Zuckerberg's Facebook Page

CEO of Facebook has called on everyone to get off Facebook – he’s pledged to run 365 miles in his version of “A Year of Running.”

For those living under the metric system, that’s 587.41056 kilometers. The equivalent of 13.9 full marathons and 27.9 half marathons. It must be intimidating to wrap our heads around these numbers. It might even be too much for beginners to start with, but for Facebook founder and CEO, it’s not just about finishing 365 miles. It’s about being a role model for his Max, inspiring his employees to stay healthy and creating a positive learning environment for people he can influence (that’s us!). And so here are what we think his resolutions for us are.

#1 To get moving

Most New Year resolutions end up being skirted around and failing because we fail to even get started. Whether it’s deciding to save for new running shoes or to run your first marathon, we need to begin by committing with baby steps. Instead of thinking about running your first out of 13.9 marathons, think about starting with 1 mile tomorrow.In Mark’s words, “At a moderate pace it’s less than 10 minutes of running per day.” Do that for 365 days and you have successfully triumphed “A Year of Running.”

#2 To take care of yourself

Better physical health also means better health behavior – both towards your family and fellow work buddies. Healthier employees are more positive, productive and potentially more creative. Mark wants to empower his employees with their own good health. What’s more trustworthy than a good heart and your strong pair of legs? After 365 miles, you too would get to find a better and faster you. Training plans with rest days, tempo days, interval days can be scary. With Mark, it’s just a simple and straightforward 365 miles new year goal.

#3 Reflect often

Running 365 miles might not have been top of your list when it comes to New Year resolutions. Neither was building an AI system that can help run my life. Setting good resolutions come with understanding yourself after a good 2015 and would come with finding out more about yourself day after day. This challenge could just be another option you’ve never considered. Or another opportunity to figure out what works for you and what doesn’t.

Whether you go out there and run 1 mile or not, and whether you choose to stop after that mile or go on to finish 365 of them, you’re slowly picking up the virtues of running. Qualities such as willingness to try, having discipline and perseverance, or even self-awareness. So don’t look at “A Year of Running” as just a numerical 365; it helps you make your next 365 days much more than just numbers.

8 Asia Pacific UNIQUE races you should consider in 2016

By

Shu

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January 5, 2016

1. Great Wall Marathon

Beijing, China
Next race: 21st May 2016

The Marathon is an annual race held in May along and on the Huangyaguan or Huangya Pass, Tianjin section of the Great Wall of China East of Beijing. Since its first start in 1999, the race has grown to several hundred participants. The course is much tougher than traditional marathons with participants challenged by 5,164 stone steps and many steep ascents and descents. It is also listed on the Forbes list of the Top 10 Marathons Worth Travelling For and known worldwide as one of the toughest races.

Despite the arduous course on the iconic Great Wall of China, runners will be rewarded by the breathtaking surroundings and views. As the route leads participants through the lower valley and into the villages, onlookers will be cheering and the festive atmosphere is a real energy boost!

2. Australian Outback Marathon

Northern Territory, Australia
Next race: 30th July 2016

The red earth of Central Australia is waiting. With stunning views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta around almost every corner, the Australian Outback Marathon provides the ultimate outback adventure experience. The entire marathon course is relatively flat from a topographical point of view but there are a few little inclines here and there. A couple of short sand dunes also make an appearance and whilst they are not long or high they will certainly feel like a challenge when running up them. The views at the top will certainly make the effort worthwhile.

3. Pyongyang Marathon

Pyongyang, (DPRK) North Korea
Next race: 10th April 2016

Pyongyang Marathon, also known as Mangyongdae Prize International Marathon, takes place in North Korea and is open to foreign amateur runners. This IAAF Bronze Label Road Race has 3 categories of full, half marathon and 10km and has a race history of 2 years.

All runners are invited to participate in the race’s opening ceremony, which involves a lap of the Kim Il Sung stadium in front of a capacity crowd. After the race has finished, the top three in each amateur category (men’s full; men’s half; men’s 10km; women’s full; women’s half; women’s 10km) will be invited to take their place on the stadium’s podium for the award ceremony.

4. Bhutan International Marathon

Bhutan
Next race: 5th March 2016

Run a marathon in one of the world’s most mysterious, beautiful and inaccessible countries.

Once ranked the happiest country in Asia and 8th happiest country in the world, the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan is a land of high mountains and deep valleys. Bhutan is a beautiful country where compassion and wisdom are the benchmark against which all things are measured, and where the King rules by ‘Gross National Happiness’.

At an elevation of 6700 feet, the marathon route is mostly rural, on hard pack dirt and pavement. As you journey through the stunning rural countryside and villages, before finishing at the historic Punakha Dzong, you will get to discover the geographical and cultural wonders of Bhutan, The country is naturally designed to be a tantalizing destination for adventure and spiritual seekers. 100% of the profits made through this event will support Bhutan’s Youth and Olympic Sports programs.

5. Great Ocean Road Marathon

Queensland, Australia
Next race: 14th May 2016

The Great Ocean Road is an icon in Australia and is renowned throughout the world for its beauty and panoramic views of the southern ocean. It has a colourful history surrounding its construction and ultimate destinations along the coastline.

The Marathon is held in a beautiful and unique area of Victoria, Australia on the Southern Ocean. The event is staged along the iconic Great Ocean Road with stunning views of the Southern Ocean. It celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2014. In 2013, over 5700 entrants competed from over 12 countries. Organisers are expecting to increase participation to over 6,000 for the 2014 competition.

6. Great Hakka Marathon

Fujian Province, China
Next race: TBC

The Great Hakka is an annual cross-country marathon race taking place in scenic Nanjing County close to the city of Xiamen, China. It is organized by some of the original creators of the Great Wall Marathon, and it features a similar event format with a marathon race, half-marathon and a fun-run. The Great Hakka builds on organizing experience and feedback received from thousands of runners over the course of 15 years. The area features unspoilt landscapes and century-old traditions, as well as the iconic Hakka Houses, which are recognised as World Heritage by UNESCO.

7. Mt. Fuji Marathon

Tokyo, Japan
Next race: TBC

The Mt. Fuji Marathon is held at Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Yamanashi Prefecture. The snow-capped peak of Mt. Fuji comes in and out of view multiple times along the course. In addition to the mountain views, runners can also enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves around Kawaguchi-ko Lake and Sai-ko Lake. With its reputation as the world’s most beautiful course, the marathon has experienced a burst of overseas participants.

The marathon also features a 10km charity fun run, organized in response to requests from people who want to run while enjoying views of Mt. Fuji, but feel unable to participate in the full marathon. A portion of the participation fees is donated to Mt. Fuji cleanup activities.

8. Yunnan Puzhehei International Marathon

Yunnan, China
Next race: TBC

A one of a kind destination marathon race that celebrates the majestic beauty of the lands in Yunnan province of China. Taking place in the enchanting Puzhehei scenic area featuring hundreds of green karst land formations surrounded with crystal clear waters providing breathtaking views. These undeveloped lands are known have some of the purest air quality in China. A combination that provides runners a truly unique experience that they will remember for a lifetime

5 Asia Half-Marathons You Should Consider Running

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 4, 2016

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1. Laguna Phuket International Marathon

Phuket, Thailand

The Laguna Phuket International Marathon was started in 2006 in to help bring tourists back to Phuket after the December 2004 tsunami had severely affected tourist arrivals to Phuket in 2005 and early 2006. The ‘Run in Paradise’ presents runners a picture perfect course along the coast of northwest Phuket Island. Along the route you can spot sights like a typical Thai village market, a rubber plantation and beach and sea views. Laguna Phuket has been the host and title sponsor of the event since its inception. In addition to their sponsorship, Laguna Phuket has also used the marathon to raise funds for charity.

Cover photo credits to: Danang International Marathon

For more races, head over to our World Bucket-List Races.

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DTL2 – What does it mean to runners?

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 4, 2016

The new Downtown Line 2 had just opened on 27 December 2015, offering 12 new stations from Bukit Panjang to Rochor. This means greater accessibility and convenience to the parts of Singapore that we could only get to by bus previously. With the Downtown Line 2, travelling to the town areas and city centres will also means shorter travelling time especially for our Bukit Panjang and Bukit Timah residents. But what other significance does it have for runners in Singapore?

More choices of running routes

Not only does the Downtown Line 2 benefit our Bukit Panjang and Bukit Timah residents, residents from other parts of Singapore are also able to commute more conveniently to the Bukit Timah areas than previous years. The Downtown Line 2 has given us greater connectivity to more parts of Singapore. This means no matter where we run to, or where we want to go for a run, there is always a way to get back home easily without relying too much on Google Maps. With more choices of running routes made accessible to us now, we have even more reasons to head outdoors for a run!

More exploration

Rail Corridor, Botanic Gardens, Dairy Farm Nature Park, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve – these are some of the popular running routes you can explore now because of Downtown Line 2. Not forgetting, they are also some of the places with the greatest natural sceneries in Singapore. Otherwise, you may venture onto the less beaten paths and discover new running routes in Singapore. No more excuses for inconvenience or not knowing how to get to these places. Now, you only have to put on those running shoes, lace up, grab your EZ link and head out for your run!

More toilet breaks (during long runs)

Because… Running makes you poop. It is a real problem among runners especially when we are running long distances, and even a greater problem when we can’t find a place for relief. Fortunately, more MRT stations means more public toilets and that they are available more easily. Now you know how to plan your long runs and where to go for your toilet breaks.

Cover photo credits: “MRT map DT” by Oahiyeel – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.5 via Commons.

8 things runners should say “NO” to in 2016

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 3, 2016

1. No to cigarettes

Social smoking can be as bad as habitual smoking. Although social smokers may feel less vulnerable to harm than heavier smokers, they are still likely to suffer from smoking-related respiratory disease, heart attack, stroke and cancer. Smoking as little as one to four cigarettes each day triples your risk of heart disease and lung cancer. Most importantly, smoking affects your stamina because your blood becomes less able to deliver oxygen to your muscle tissues.

2. No to alcohol

Drinking too much alcohol can leave you dehydrated the next day and even affect your muscle recovery after a run. It can be good to indulge in some drinks once in a while, but always remember to drink on moderation if you must.

3. No to Saturday and Sunday late nights (if you have an event the next day).

Most races are held in the early hours of the day. If you don’t take a rest early the day before, you are likely to have difficulties waking up for the race, or not be in the right form to tackle your race the next day. Remember, it is always about dedication!

4. No to injuries

Injuries always create a break in any routine/cycle. Don’t let any accidental injuries or strains affect your training plans. Improve slowly. Do not be too eager. As they say, slow and steady wins the race.

5. No to HAZE

Experiencing the extended period of haze was bad enough last year. We saw 4 races being cancelled and many runners could not enjoy an outdoor run for months. Let’s all hope that there will be no haze this year!

6. No to junk food.

Running does not give you a free pass to eat anything you like just because you are burning those calories. To achieve weight loss and overall health, your diet is equally important as your exercise. On the other hand, it is important to stay lean and light to be a fast and efficient runner. Too much junk food translates to an expanding waist line and also likely slower runs.

7. No to bad habits

Whether it is watching shows or playing games till late night, eating late night snacks, skipping your warm ups and stretches; you should not be doing any of these anymore. Your health is of utmost importance and it is time to get rid of those bad habits!

8. No to giving up

This is a new year for a stronger you! Running is about pushing on and overcoming your limitations. If you need some motivation for your long runs, you can always check out our motivational posters and motivational quotes. Or you may also use our 2016 running resolutions as your desktop wallpaper to give you that extra nudge! (2016 Resolutions: Part 1 & Part 2)

Race Day: Mileage New Year Run 2016

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 1, 2016

Today approximately 800 runners gathered at the Punggol Park to welcome 2016 at Mileage New Year Run. This is Mileage’s 3rd successful new year run and is aimed at encouraging people to start their new year on a right foot, for health and with their family. What a great way to start a new year with a great run! We wish all fellow runners a happy, healthy and prosperous new year! Just Run Lah!

Race Review: 3 Ten Golf Course Run (by KenJoe)

By

KenJoe

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December 31, 2015

I signed up for the inaugural 3-Ten Golf Course Run in the final week just a few days before the race pack collection. The 3 refers to the 3 Golf Courses at the Orchid Country Club, Dendro, Aranda and Vanda.

I had just completed the Standard Chartered Marathon Race and thought that would have been my final race for the year. I was still recovering from the three black toe nails I had earned unfortunately for this second full marathon. I was also mulling a bit over how I had slowed down my PB by another 15 minutes in this second marathon somehow though I have run ahead of the pacers with purple balloons. I wasn’t sure if I was recovered enough to run this race. Still, I thought why not close the chapter for this year with an even 24 challenges. Moreover it was not often one gets to run in a golf course.

So when that day came, I took the MRT and made my way to the shuttle bus pickup point. For a change, this venue was in the North relatively nearer my home. I was surprised to see a queue consisting of runners and other ‘regular folks’. Then the shuttle bus came and it was one of those smaller size, not the regular bigger coach bus. I realized this was their regular shuttle service to the country club. Still, I was early and I managed to board the next bus that came as the first filled up rather quickly.

It was still early and there was a quick warm-up exercise though there wasn’t much room for stretching out. But all the runners were impatient. I became a bit apprehensive when it was announced that the distance was longer than 10 km, (but emphasized it was slightly more only) and it was undulating. I wasn’t sure how my size 13, fairly new shoes and my hurt toes would take the undulation. Hydration point was at the half way mark.

Just a couple of minutes before the actual scheduled start time, the wave 1 was flagged off. I squeezed into the back of wave 1 and started the run too quickly. It was undulating throughout and I slowed my pace and there were a few hilly ups and downs too. Still, it was a good change of scenery from the usual races, and the evening wind was nice. At one point, we were running with the Lower Sungei Seletar Reservoir waters just on our right side. At another point when I estimated I was near the half way point, the volunteer shouted ‘1/3 mark already !’ Someone behind grunted my sentiments, what, another 2/3 to go ?

Anyway, I got used to the undulation. I didn’t stop at the hydration point and I managed to quicken my pace near the end. Still, the feet and uneven path took its toll, my nails eventually dropped off too. I did a poor timing of 1:12 for a 10 km, one of my slowest. I walked around, relaxed after the run. After snapping a picture of the 3 men winners, I made my way to the shuttle bus terminal and queued up for almost 45 minutes before I finally boarded the shuttle to take me back to the MRT and then home to a ‘sinful’ dinner as I had skipped dinner earlier on. Overall, a good race with nice scenery (tranquil even) and I guess the only improvement required was on the transport. And that was my last race for the year and completes the 24 challenges for this year.

Singapore’s Most Read Running Articles 2015 (Part II)

By

Team JustRunLah!

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December 30, 2015

Check out Part I here

2015 has been a great year for JustRunLah as we saw the growing support we have been getting from our readers and runners. We hope to continue bringing you quality articles that you want to read. Thank you for being the wonderful running community and we are very grateful for your love this past year. What were your favourite articles of this year? Let’s have some recap with the top 10 most read articles of this year:

6. Do You Know What’s Your Pronation Type?

Determining your type of pronation is vital to choosing the type of shoes you wear. As Marilyn Monroe once said, “Give a girl the right pair of shoes, and she can conquer the world.” – this applies to runners as well. In addition to a comfortable ride, shoes can play a major role in keeping you running strong.

Read article here: Do You Know What’s Your Pronation Type?

7. Interview with Compressport Ambassador – Jenny Huang, Ultramarathoner and Super Mom

top-10-articles-2015_20151229182909_1451413749525_block_2 — Photo credits: Cheryl Tay

Jenny Huang is not your regular mom. She runs up to 100 km a week and is a competitive ultramarathoner. She has been an inspiration and role model for many female runners and mothers with her excellent running achievements.

Read article here: Interview with Compressport Ambassador – Jenny Huang, Ultramarathoner and Super Mom

8. Durians vs. Runners

Durian is a favourite among many of us in the Southeast Asia region. And we never fail to have a durian feast (usually multiples of them) especially during the durian season. Find out more about the facts & myths of eating durian and how it affects our body!

Read article here: Durians vs. Runners

9. Closure of Singapore Rail Corridor in 2016

The Singapore Rail Corridor is one of the rare trail running routes in Singapore, but it will be closed in 2016 for the new underground water pipeline construction works. This temporary inconvenience is, however, part of the long-term conservation plans of the corridor. You may take part in the Compressport Rail Corridor Run which falls on 31 January 2016, to fully appreciate the beauty of the trails before it is closed for the next few years.

Read article here: Closure of Singapore Rail Corridor in 2016

10. Why Has Singapore Become a Pay-To-Run Nation?

Indeed, running can be done almost anywhere and anytime, and is essentially a sport that you can do for free. Yet there are so many people who spend money to sign up for races. Our blogger SG Unfit Runners shared with us his take on this and why he enjoy signing up for races.

Read article here: Why Has Singapore Become a Pay-To-Run Nation?