JustRunLah! Best of 2014: Part II

By

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January 13, 2015

And the winners are…

For our selection process, please refer to our introduction article on the series, Special Edition: JustRunLah! Best of 2014.

In Part II of the Best of 2014, we present to you the winners of the following categories:

Best Cross-Country Run
Best Fun Run
Best Charity Run

JustRunLah! Best Cross-Country Run 2014

The Salomon MR25 X-Country Marathon 2014 was organized on 22 June, and featured a 4-loops route of the MacRitchie Reservoir, Singapore’s largest water catchment area. Despite being a small scale race event with approximately 500-800 participants, it was a highly-rated race where runners were satisfied with numerous aspects of the event, including hydration, pre-race logistics, runners’ entitlement and race day expo and activities.

The runners’ entitlement consisted of a finisher medal, finisher Salomon shirt, Pocari Sweat sports drink and HIGH5 energy gel. In addition, participants were provided with sufficient hydration and banana stations located along the race routes in the lush greenery. Dark clouds, thunder and other signs of an impending storm on the race day did not deter the race from flagging off as it was still safe for running and runners were in for a somewhat unique, tropical-rainforest running experience, thereby setting itself apart from other road races.

Shortlisted by CNN as one of the 10 Best places to run in Singapore, the running route of MacRitchie Reservoir is known for its grueling slopes and intense humidity amongst the greenery. With that in mind and the arduous 42km distance to conquer, the decision made by the race committee to reverse the direction of the route for this marathon, made it physically and mentally possible for runners as some of the supposed uphills turned into downhills, allowing runners to have some ‘let loose’ time and enjoy some temporary relief from exhaustion.

This is a full marathon unlike any and a race that brings runners close to nature – definitely an event to look out for!

JustRunLah! Best Fun Run 2014

Energizer Singapore Night Trail came in as a clear winner with an excellent overall rating of 4.4/5 as the Best Fun Run of the year. With numerous race categories ranging from the 1.5km parent and child obstacle race to the 18km night trail race, it was definitely an event catered for everyone. Participants were most satisfied with the event’s hydration, route planning and race day expo and activities given the well-execution and organisation of the event management team.

Firstly, participants realized that there were more actual hydration points for the trail race than was stated in the race map and each hydration point offered both isotonic and water. This certainly provided race participants with sufficient hydration and energy to conquer the slopes and roads in the dark.

Despite holding the trail race events at night with the inevitable reduction in visibility, runners were well-directed by large LED panels that signaled the directions at split points for the loop. Volunteers were strategically positioned at areas requiring manpower to ensure that participants kept their morale and spirits high, as well as providing information about potential road hazards ahead. In addition, road marshals were mobilised via motorcycles at various parts of the race route to maintain order and security.

Being a SAF-protected zone, an area of prohibited access to the general public, Lorong Asrama of Mandai is a place rarely visited by most Singaporeans, excluding army recruits who had experienced military training there. As such, the event organizer had been lauded by many in being able to gain permission to organize the race event successfully and allow more people to discover more places of Singapore.

Furthermore, the race pack included useful items such as headlamps that came in handy for the night trail, as well as race shirts that were had reflective elements sewn on them. Also, the shuttle buses provided on the race day made travelling to and from Mandai much more convenient, providing participants with multiple drop-off points.

All in all, the Energizer Singapore Night Trail proved to be a major success in the Fun Run category given its good performance in multiple aspects of a race event, leaving many participants excited for the next one in the coming year.

JustRunLah! Best Charity Run 2014

SIA Charity Run and POSB PAssion Run for Kids 2014 were both ranked first for the Best Charity Run of the year with an outstanding overall rating of 4.1/5. The SIA Charity Run took place on November 2^nd at the F1 Pit Stop, while the POSB PAssion Run for Kids was organized on September 14^th at the Marina Promontory and both events provided multiple race distances catering to the different running preferences of participants.

The SIA Charity Run was rated highly on its pre-race logistics, route planning and hydration and there were 3 race categories available, namely 10km, 5km and 300m. Participants reflected that the race pack collection held at Kallang Leisure was efficient and the queues were well-managed. The race route spanning from Esplanade to Singapore Sports Hub was mostly flat and comfortable to run on, with most of the path on Nicoll Highway. The event organisers had also made a wise decision to flag off the 10km race in 2 waves in order to prevent congestion during the race, hence giving participants an enjoyable running experience.

In addition, participants were also satisfied with the sufficient hydration points throughout the race route, providing that extra boost for them to complete the race. The race finishers each received an exclusive finishers’ medal, which had an exquisite Kerbaya-inspired lanyard design similar to that of the Kerbayas worn by the flight attendants of SIA.

Race participants were also entitled to take part in a lucky draw at the end of the race where they stood to win attractive prizes including a pair of Singapore Airlines Business Class return tickets to any Singapore Airlines destination, and tickets to different places of attraction in Singapore. The SIA Charity Run was organized to raise funds for the Community Chest of Singapore, along with the Care & Share Movement and a total of $1.22 million was raised from the race alone.

The POSB PAssion Run for Kids fared best in its route planning and runners’ entitlement. The race pack included a variety of items including water bottles, many food and beverage items, shoe bag, race tee and pain relief patches. The finisher medals were in the shape of the official squirrel mascot which was unique and appealing to both children and adults.

Both the 1.2km and 800m kids run were held near Marina Bay Financial Centre and city while the 10km adult and 3.5km family walk extended towards the Marina Barrage, with the 10km route looping near Gardens By The Bay. With numerous spectacular and iconic features such as the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands, the race route gave participants a rewarding visual experience taking on a physical challenge for a good cause.

This charity run was organized with the aim to support children in our community so that they can live a happier childhood and enjoy a brighter future without being affected by financial constraints. About $1.1 million had been raised from the run and it was a meaningful charity event that provided opportunities for both the young and adults to do their part for the less privileged.

Click here for Part I: Best 10km Run / Best 21km Run / Best 42km Run

Click here for Part III: Most Used Apparel: / Race with the Most Unhappy Runners / Race with the Most Happy Runners

JustRunLah! Best of 2014: Part I

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 13, 2015

And the winners are…

For our selection process, please refer to our introduction article on the series, Special Edition: JustRunLah! Best of 2014.

In Part I of the Best of 2014, we present to you the winners of the following categories:

Best 10km Run
Best 21km (Half-Marathon) Run
Best 42km (Marathon) Run

JustRunLah! Best 10km Run 2014

With an excellent overall race experience rating of 4.2/5, these 3 races are on par as the Best 10Km Run of 2014, namely the Great Eastern Women’s Run, NTUC Income RUN 350 and Yellow Ribbon Prison Run.

Great Eastern Women’s Run 2014 took place on 9 November and was flagged off from the Float @ Marina Bay. Race reviewers were most satisfied with the race day expo and activities. This race event offered complimentary race day photos of every participant which are downloadable online by entering their unique bib number or name on the official site, as well as fun fringe activities such as Tupperware cooking class, body combat and fitness training classes at affordable rates. It is no wonder that Asia’s largest all-women race is such a highly-anticipated event each year, where women get to enjoy special bonding moments with their family and friends while keeping fit, healthy and empowered.

NTUC Income RUN 350 was flagged off from the F1 Pit Building on 27 April and this event fared best in areas of route planning and runners’ entitlement. The entitlements for participants included a Race Entry Pack that had multiple food and beverage items, Brooks Running Singlet and an environmentally-friendly finisher medal, which was made partly from recycled materials. Despite the cancellation of the 21km event due to the unforeseeable wet weather condition and channeling the 21km category participants into the 10km run, there were no signs of congestion or overcrowding along the race routes and the event organisers provided clear and efficient communication via SMS and internet to participants regarding any updates on the actual race day. As such, the success of this race event is credited to the commendable race route planning skills, responsive and efficient event organisers in adapting to challenging situations and not forgetting the helpful and caring race volunteers who sheltered participants with umbrellas from the heavy downpour on the race day.

Yellow Ribbon Prison Run took place on 14 September at Changi Village. This race differentiated itself from the rest with its unique race route featuring several historical sites in the Changi area such as Johore Battery, Changi Chapel Museum and Old Changi Prison Wall. The race journey reflects an ex-offender’s path of reintegration into society, with the race finishing line strategically planned on the route leading from the conserved old Changi Prison Gatehouse to the new Changi Prison Complex. This meaningful race event managed to raise a total of $130,000 for ex-offenders, allowing them “to pick themselves up and to get back on track”.

JustRunLah! Best 21km Run 2014

Topping the charts of the Best Half-Marathon of this year include the 2 of the winners for Best 10km Run – Great Eastern Women’s Run, NTUC Income RUN 350 (see previous category), and the 2XU Compression Run.

The 2XU Compression Run took place on 2 March and was flagged off from Nicoll Highway and has been raved about by many participants for its hydration resources and runners’ entitlement. According to Type A, B or C, runners were able to receive multiple 2XU sports apparel including the original 2XU Dryfit Run Singlet, Limited Edition Running shorts, Compression shorts and Visor, which made the slightly higher-than-average race rates totally value-for-money. Clear distance signposts, picturesque landmarks along the race route and comfortable running areas were also some memorable moments the race participants experienced from this event.

Furthermore, the hydration provided was sufficient and enjoyable as the organisers were seen handing out more than enough chilled water and isotonic drinks for every runner along the hydration stations which were appropriately distanced to ensure that runners are properly hydrated throughout the entire race. The refreshing cold towel, amongst the food and drinks provided upon race completion, came as a pleasant surprise to many and was a thoughtful gesture worth applauding the 2XU event organizers for.

The Great Eastern Women’s Run had an exciting and fun-filled race day expo and activities that gave female participants and their families and friends great bonding opportunities and shared moments worth reminiscing. Snapshots of all race participants putting their best feet forward during the race are available for download from the official website by entering their unique bib number or name. Runners were also rewarded with plenty of post-run benefits such as delicious food and beverages and mass workouts kept race finishers up on their feet as they wait for their fellow race buddies to complete the half marathon. With each aspect of a race event such as capacity of amenities, pre-race logistics, route planning, hydration and runners’ rewards well-managed and taken care of, this event gives every woman a race she truly deserves.

The half-marathon event for the NTUC Income RUN 350 had to be cancelled due to heavy downpour and thunderstorm during the flag-off time. That decision did not come easy and organisers were praised for their timely updates on the flag-off time for the 10km event and all 21km runners were entitled to join in the 10km race as a ‘fun-run’ without an official race timing. The wise decision resulted in an enjoyable and comfortable race with no signs of overcrowding along the well-planned race route. Runners’ entitlement included a generous race pack filled with food and beverage items, a finisher’s medal partly made from recycled materials which was in line with their aim to create environmental awareness and massage area for the well-deserved race participants. Kudos to the volunteers who sheltered race participants from the heavy rain and the responsive, efficient race event team for giving the disappointed runners a pleasant race to remember.

JustRunLah! Best 42km Run 2014

The 2XU Compression Run on 2 March 2014 was highly-rated by participants as it had outstanding ratings on the hydration facilities and fared well in other aspects of the race including the amenities, runners’ entitlement, route planning and race day expo and activities. The run had 3 events: 10km, half-marathon and full marathon and was flagged off at Nicoll Highway.

Firstly, participants were very satisfied with the generous supply of water and chilled isotonic drinks and the strategic positioning of the hydration points. As such, runners were all well-hydrated and energized for their run under the scorching heat. In addition, the distance markers were clear and visible from far such that runners were able to know the distance they have covered, when to make turns and hence kept them on the correct running course and direction. Restrooms were located at convenient places that were not too far apart. Also, muscle rub stations were seen along the race route as well to provide muscle ache or cramp relief. Another thoughtful inclusion by the organisers.

The well-planned race route resulted in a smooth run for most as there were little or no congestion experienced. The starting point was wide enough to prevent runners from blocking one another and despite having the 21km and 42km runners utilizing the same route at parts of the race, there were no bottlenecks or overcrowding. As such, it was a safe, enjoyable and scenic run for participants along the route that features the majestic Singapore flyer, Marina Bay Sands and other iconic infrastructure of the Singapore skyline.

Furthermore, the finishers enjoyed numerous welfare provided by the organisers including a banana as a post-run fuel, Pocari Sweat Isotonic drink and a refreshing cold towel. The cold towel came as a surprise to many and served as a great cool-down essential. As for the race pack collection day, there were no signs of long queues or waiting time and the event staff were efficient in their services.

Runners were entitled Original 2XU Dryfit Run singlets, exclusive finisher medals, limited edition 2XU running socks, visors and compression shorts, depending on the Type they participated in. An E-Certificate is given to all participants and finishers’ tee were given to half and full marathon runners as well.

Overall, it was an enjoyable and satisfying marathon event for most runners because of the well-planned running route that resulted in a comfortable run, pre and post run welfare and activities that left a wonderful memory for participants to join the race again the next year. If there was one thing to nitpick on, some runners suggested a later flag-off timing for the full and half-marathon because 4am and 4:45am is slightly dark and the limited vision might result in possible injuries as road hazards might not be visible despite additional lighting provided by the organizers.

Click here for Part II: Best Cross-Country Run / Best Fun Run / Best Charity Run

Click here for Part III: Most Used Apparel: / Race with the Most Unhappy Runners / Race with the Most Happy Runners

Special Edition: JustRunLah! Best Of 2014

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 13, 2015

2014: What a year it’s been for running!

As running becomes increasingly popular worldwide, this trend has been reflected in our local racing scene in Singapore. Here at JustRunLah!, we listed 115 races on our database for the calendar year of 2014. Some were good, some were not-so-good, and some did not happen at all.

For each race our readers, had a chance to Rate the race and share with us what you thought of the race experience. We now present to you in this special edition article, the Best of 2014 races, as voted by YOU, the readers of JustRunLah!

Selection Process:

The following race events have been selected based on the ratings and scores submitted by JustRunLah! members who have taken part in the races listed in the Singapore Race Database of 2014. The overall rating of 5 stars is tabulated based on the average of stars given in the following aspects of the race: Pre-race Logistics, Route Planning, Hydration, Amenities, Runners’ Entitlement and Race Day Expo and Activities.

The Best races had the highest scores among their respective race categories while the Most Happy and Unhappy Races were selected based on the feedback and comments submitted by runners on the race forums. We believe that these channels served as useful methods to measure and evaluate the satisfaction level and opinions of race participants and thus formed the judging criteria.

While the numerical ranking of the races were consistent with the type of comments reflected in the forums, there were some limitations identified when analyzing the results; Some of the races listed in the race database lacked votes casted by runners and hence scores could not be tabulated. Another issue pertains to races that had multiple events of different distances or categories because participants who rated the races only took part in one of them. As such, the scores submitted is specific to that race category rather than the entire race event itself.

With these considerations in mind and after reviewing and comparing the consistency of both quantitative and qualitative results of the races, it is assumed that the ratings provided were uniform across all categories of each race event.

Drumrolls Please…

The results are presented in three separate articles, featuring the following categories:

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3:

click on the list items above for the unveiling of JustRunLah!’s 2014 Winners!

You Promised It’d Be Easier!

By

The Ninja Turtle

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January 13, 2015

1417911211585 — Jurong Lake Park at dawn in Singapore

What am I looking at?!

OK, so after two long months away, I’m finally back in Europe, and boy was I in for a rude shock! Nine weeks of prolonged daylight hours, mini spells of heatwaves (Australia) and continuous oppressive heat and humidity (Singapore) had scrubbed my mind clean of how cold it can be back in Metz at this time of the year.

So while I was treat to images like these while running overseas:

Now I have to contend with sights like these:

Maffliers at midday in the Paris region, France

Where’s the speed, yo?

Scenery aside, there was something else I’d expected to see, but I’m still waiting for it. In Australia and Singapore, I was labouring under the impression that my splits could be ignored, because well – heat and humidity. My expectations were sky-high, that as soon as I return to France, I’d be like a cheetah with a jetpack, breaking the sound barrier with a BOOM! as I rocket past other runners at my local running route.

Nope. Didn’t happen. I’ve completed 6 runs in the last 8 days now, and my average pace per run, for every single run, has been honteuse (shameful). I can’t even use the heat as an excuse anymore which means, well, I’m out of excuses. I’m just a slow runner who’s gotten even slower after 2 months of holidays.

At any rate, it’s nice to come “home” and settle back into some semblance of a routine, which hopefully means I can snap out of the la-dee-dah attitude towards running, and focus on reaching my performance targets once more.

For a complete reflection of measuring progress as a runner, please visit my blog: http://thetaoofourlartdevivre.wordpress.com/2015/01/12/measuring-progress-as-a-runner/

Race Review: NUS Bizad Charity 2015 [10km] (by ‘sinaistrider’)

By

sinaistrider

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January 12, 2015

Happy New Year.

My first race outing of 2015, and it’s on local turf, the NUS Campus at Kent Ridge.

When I talk to running friends here about this race and it’s mid year sibling, the NUS 10k, three themes are apparent.

1) Watch the hills, watch the stairs, it’s a tough place to race

2) Don’t lead the race, you will get lost (which leads into….)

3) The marshalling isn’t great

Having tried both races, I concur with all these points 🙂

As well as being the first race of 2015, this was also a big group race for the Mount Sinai Striders. Out in full today, were Ben, yours truly, The Claw (testing out his new calf guards), Scouse Pete (fresh back from a UK christmas and new year), Shaun (last race in SG) and big rob (PB hunter). Shug still has his ITB issues, but has jogged down to watch the race along with Big Rob’s family. We meet fellow regular runners Al, Popeye and Olive on the start line.

Ben and I are interviewed by the race announcer the start line, we impart some words of wisdom to the gathered runners “embrace the sweat” and “watch those hills” and then after waiting until 15 mins after the flagoff time for a dignitary who didn’t show up, we were flagged off.

All of us in the leading pack remembering point 2 above (dont lead) set off at a pretty slow pace, like one of those tactical Olympic 800m finals where they jog the first lap, waiting to see who is going to surge first.

After about 2.5km, we experienced point 3 for the first time, where the whole leading group of about 6-7 were running down the hill waving frantically at the marshall to try to get him to indicate where we were supposed to cross the road. After watching us all go one way, he helpfully advised that this was the wrong way and that we should all turn around and go back. This we obviously all did with a cheery smile and friendly disposition…… not

Popeye has a fairly short fuse at NUS events, we’ve only been running 10 minutes and he’s exploded twice already.

But the fun is just beginning. On the footpath over the AYE into U Town and we encounter a hand holding couple, walking towards 8 sweaty runners at full tilt. They do what comes naturally and make no effort whatsoever to accommodate the race, so we all rapidly make single file to squeeze past them. Round the U Town loop, which is sufficiently obvious that no marshalls can misdirect us. 5k in now and the pack has spread a bit. Alistair is in front, with Ben in third, Popeye in fourth and me 6th.

At this point we merge with the 5k fun runners and the pavement weaving skills come into full use.

Through 6k, we turn a corner and are presented with a 50m staircase. Aiyoh! at this stage of the race it may as well be 500m long. Single file up the stairs, pretty much everyone walks at some stage as the lactic acid build up gets too great. The one great thing about hills, generally speaking, is that once you get to the top, you are rewarded with a lovely downhill section. This was no exception and the next k or so was a fabulous downhill blast. Here I caught a little time on Popeye and Ben, but not enough to change the placings. At the bottom of the hill, somehow Popeye has gone the wrong way again and he’s behind me, but he’s quite highly charged by all the misdirection, which seems to have fired him up and he steams past me into the last 2k.

At this point, I can hear the familiar footfall of Olive, Popeye’s very speedy female companion – last saturday I fended her off at the ParkRun over the last kilometre but it was hard work, so I know she’s going to make me work again here. This time she draws level, we acknowledge each other, then she pulls ahead. Onto the last section on Pasir Panjang Road and into the last click, I summon some inner strength and knuckle down to the task of trying to catch her, this i just about managed, but honestly it was only courtesy of the final piece of dodgy marshalling at the pedestrian crossing next to Race HQ.

At the finish line I just about manage to avoid having my eye poked out by a self stick carrying 5k fun runner (as below) and I’m all done in 42.30 in 6th place.

Al got the W and Ben was 3rd. The Claw crosses the line in something like 12th, so it’s a good effort for the striders with 3 of the top 12 placings. We wait for the rest of the gang with a can of F&N’s finest liquid amber (100plus – drink of champions) and reassemble for a post run striders photo.

Despite some poor marshalling (just inexperience I think) I really enjoyed this one – it’s a small race, a challenging course, local to where i live and the pre/post race village had a nice vibe about it.

As I understand, this and the other 10k at NUS are both run by student committees, which means there isn’t much continuity from year to year – and you can certainly notice that in the way these are organised – maybe they can try to have some folks stick with it for a few consecutive years – they could do with appying some ‘lessons learnt’!). But, the course makes such a great change to the boring flat marina bay routes that I will cetainly be back again for more, so I’ll add one point to the three points at the start – 4) bring a sense of humour and dont sweat the details.

No racing plans for me in Feb, next time out looks like being the Green Corridor in early March, my favourite race on the SG Calendar. See you all there!

Race Summary, splits and route below. The 5min /k is the one with the stairs 🙂

4 things expats need to know about running in Singapore

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 11, 2015

Singapore – a place to work and play

If you’re an expatriate reading this, welcome to Singapore! Reputed for its gastronomy, food is always readily available, with 24-hour food courts and coffee shops round the corner on our sunny island. Little wonder most people return home with more than just work experience to show for their time here.

Fear not, for the spare tyre can be easily avoided. In reality, running is as easy as eating in Singapore, and just as enjoyable. With plenty of parks, gardens, beaches, and safe pedestrian footpaths along neighbourhood running routes, it’s as simple as lacing up and exploring your new home away from home. Discover our country’s historical quarters, enclaves with their own unique subcultures, and marvel at the feats of modern architecture amidst our lush tropics.

Running in Singapore brings a few reality checks with it too, so as locals, we thought we’d give you a little heads-up.

1) It’s hot. Really hot.

You will perspire. Your running vest will get soaked. The average relative humidity in Singapore ranges throughout the day, from a minimum of 64 percent to a maximum of 96 percent, with temperatures averaging 28 Degree Celsius. You are bound to perspire, probably even before you start running. Also, remember to wash your running gear. Singapore’s climate will cause them to stink if you leave them over night.

2) There are races every weekend!

With a total of 90 races in 2014, Singapore averaged 1.8 races per weekend. From themed runs to charity runs to obstacles run and competitive runs… you name it, Singapore is likely to have it. Whether you are a leisure runners or a competitive runner, you will definitely get to participate in one. Participation costs range from $25 to $100, but we honestly believe that Singapore Race packs may be one of the best in world, with a wide variety of products sponsored. Visit and bookmark our race calendar – the most complete running events calendar – to keep yourself updated!

3) …but you’re highly unlikely to beat your personal best.

It may be due to the climate. It may be due to the discomfort of running in said climate. It may be due to the distractingly scenic routes. Whatever the reason, competitive runners in Singapore achieve their personal best in races away from Singapore.

4) Plenty of places to run.

From 5km to 42km, there are a lot of places available to catch that run. All corners of Singapore are easily accessible by public transport. From an early morning run to a midnight run, Singapore also provides you the security and freedom to engage in the activity without worries.

So, in Singapore, we say Just Run Lah. What say you?

3rd May 2015: Wings for Life World Run. 6 continents, 40 countries but no Singapore

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 10, 2015

The Whole World Is Running

The Wings for Life World Run 2015 brings people together to run a race for those who can’t. The Wings for Life Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure for spinal cord injury and 100 percent of the money from entry fees and donations will be channeled directly towards funding research projects around the globe. The Run will take place on May 3, 2015, at exactly 11am UTC, simultaneously all over the world, in 40 locations across six continents. It will be a truly global experience, where you could face any type of climate, lighting and terrains, depending on which location you chose to run. Although Singapore is not included in the list of the race venues around the world, you might want to travel to these participating countries in Asia to be part of this meaningful race: Turkey, United Arab Emirates, India, Taiwan, Georgia and Japan. If you wish to travel farther afield, on the left is a full list of all participating cities around the world.

Unlike typical races, after thirty minutes of flagging-off, a Catcher Car sets off at each race location at 15km/h speed and as long as you stay in front of this car, you stay in the race. The speed of the car increases gradually, at exactly the same time all over the world. Your race is over once the Catcher Car passes you and you simply hop onto a shuttle bus that will bring you back to the starting line to celebrate. This car-chase continues until there’s a single man and single woman left running in the world. These 2 winners will be crowned the Global Champions of the Wings for Life World Run and each will be awarded a Wings for Life World Run trophy and a round-the-world trip.

Let’s run!

To form a team, simply gather your families, friends, club members, workmates, uni mates – anyone – of any ability and walk of life to run in up to three teams for those who can’t. It is free to join or create a team. The eligible age for participation differs in each race location and it generally varies from 18 to 118, be it running or in a wheelchair, anywhere in the world. Another fun race idea would be for Companies’ HQs to challenge global branches, clubs going against other clubs, college run against college at one or several Wings for Life World Run locations. You can either join an existing one or create your own public or private team. You can run for up to 3 teams, adding each of your steps to each team’s overall team distance, pushing your teams to run the furthest and be the best while competing to be the best individual in the teams at the same time.

The only payment you have to make is your individual runner’s entry fee, where 100% goes to Wings for Life foundation to help find a cure for spinal cord injury. Not only is that a contribution for a good cause, it is also a promise to yourself to keep your resolutions of getting fit, shaping up and staying healthy into the new year. Spinal cord injury is one of the most devastating injuries that can occur to a person. It does not only impact the ability to move your limbs, but also causes a large number of health-related complications and limitations in daily life.

So what are you waiting for? Form your teams and be prepared to spread your wings for a day of fun, fitness and faith, regardless of what nationality you are and where you come from!

More information can be found at the official site: www.wingsforlife.com

All images on this post are copyrights of © Red Bull Media House

Three Ways to Shake Up Your Running Routine

By

Team JustRunLah!

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January 10, 2015

New Year, New Ways to Run

Stuck in a running rut? Chances are, all (or most of) your runs are the same. You run the same distance, at the same pace, at the same time of day. Boredom is a huge motivation killer, but fear not! This can be easily fixed by shaking up your routine.

The following are some small changes that will keep running fresh and exciting for you.

Run with a buddy, or run alone!

If you’ve never gone running with another person before, you are a running lone wolf. However, if you’ve only ever gone running when a friend or a running club is counting on you to show up, you are a running social butterfly.

While there is no one way better than the other, lone wolves and social butterflies can benefit learning from each other.

Social butterflies treat running as a social event; but by permitting yourself to run alone sometimes, you remove distractions and learn to focus on the act of running itself. When you stop listening to the chatter of others, you start listening to the voice inside yourself. Those are your body and your mind talking – pay attention and you will go far.

Lone wolves stay solitary for various reasons, but often, it’s the Type-A personalities who feel that every run must have a tangible outcome. Running time is your problem-solving time, or you like to focus on reaching your targets, or maybe you’re uncomfortable running with others who may be faster/slower than you. Here are two arguments to start running with a buddy:

1. You have someone to give you more objective feedback on your performance.

2. You learn to treat running as an enjoyable experience again.

Change one of the following three things:

Runners can be such creatures of habit. We create a routine, and stick to it come rain, hail or shine. We run on autopilot because our feet recognize every hole in the track of our local park. Some of us don’t need to change gears, having spent the last 20 years only running at the same speed. Even scarier, some of us only have that one same music playlist we run to…

This week, on one run, we challenge you to try:

Run your usual route, but in reverse.
Change the time of day when you run.
On a day you are feeling good, why not add an extra 15 minutes, or 10% distance?

Check out new running routes

If your running thus far has been limited to the treadmill, we welcome you to take the plunge and try running outdoors for a change. Yes, it will be hot. Yes, it will be humid. Yes, you will have to learn to carry some water on your run… but we promise you it will all be worth it!

For runners who are already used to running outdoors, we invite you to venture into new territories. Just once a month (or if you are feeling brave, even once a week), make a running date with yourself. For example, turn your 30-minute Wednesday morning pre-work obligatory run around your local park into a 30-minute lunch-break exploratory run close to your workplace.

To help you along with this, JustRunLah! will be presenting you 50 in 2015 – spotlighting a running route each week for a total of 50 various routes around Singapore. Check back with us for ideas on running outside your comfort zone!

Win a luxurious 3D2N stay at Gaya Island Resort for two

By

Team JustRunLah!

-

January 10, 2015

2 x 3D2N Stay at Bayu Villa with Breakfast and Return Boat Transfer, Gaya Island Resort

There is a place, accessible only by boat, where all that nature has created, from sheltered coral reefs to protected mangroves, over thousands of years has been preserved by those devoted to its care. A place called Gaya Island Resort at Pulau Gaya.

Gaya Island Resort is located on Pulau Gaya, the largest of a cluster of five islands that form the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a natural conservation area off the coast of Borneo, close to Kota Kinabalu. Gaya Island Resort has a unique setting: the land is fringed with a golden sandy beach, rocky coastal outcrops, and surrounded by coral reefs. The hilly island landscape is covered with lush tropical rainforest and an abundance of flora and fauna. And to complete this perfect setting, visible in the distance, is the stunning outline of Mount Kinabalu.

The guest villa exterior respects Sabahan architecture, uses local materials and blends harmoniously with the natural environment. The interior living space is designed with contemporary elegance to create warmth, comfort and a serene indoor setting.

Gaya Island Resort is committed to ecologically-sustainable practices to minimise the carbon footprint within its environment. Therefore, the resort is a walking resort and only minimal motorised vehicles are used for operational purposes.

Enter the contest:

The contest has closed and winner has been notified. Thank you.

More information about the resort: www.gayaislandresort.com

This story is sponsored by Sabah Tourism Board.

Race Review: MR25 Ultramarathon 2015 (by ‘red3’)

By

red3

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January 9, 2015

First 2015 Race for Team Costa

Team Costa has had its first race for 2015, solely represented by Sven Seyffert. No better way to kick off the new year than by entering the MR25 Ultramarathon. Held at Macritchie Reservoir the race is only considered finished when the participant completes 5 laps of 10.35km each, totalling 51.75km. The winner is the person that completes the most laps within the race’s 12 hours period.

Whilst we considered Sven a little crazy, he is no stranger to challenging races having completed the SAFFRA half-marathon, SCMS marathon (x2), the Newton Challenge 32km (x2), North Face 100 (50km version), and the Twilight 16hrs Ultra where he knocked up 80km as a spur-of-the-moment walk-on almost three hours after that race had started.

The Event Organiser

The MR25 is organised by the MacRitchie Runners 25, a Singapore registered athletic club. Little information can be gleaned from their website but what I gather is that the club focuses on progressive runs and time trial sessions around MacRitchie Reservoir. To qualify for a club membership one has to complete 5km time trial (4.6km for ladies) in under 25 minutes on a cross country course.

The Event Location

MacRitchie Reservoir is a lush 12 hectare park surrounding one of the oldest reservoirs in Singapore. A terrific location for cross-country races, trail trekking and nature enthusiasts, MacRitchie is rich in native biodiversity and creatures such as the long-tailed Macaques, funky little monkeys who can either be friendly or snatching (so mind your goodies when around them).

The running route is a combination of boardwalk and trail paths, and each lap consists of a total ascent of 66m and maximum elevation of 70m. No easy feat for any participant especially for 50+ km.

The Race

On a pleasant sunny Sunday morning, over a poolside coffee Sven was quizzed about the race, his preparation, his mental stamina, his physical management and overall experience of the race.

And here’s what he had to say:

Me: Your last race was the Standard Chartered Marathon. What further training or preparation did you engage in for MR25?

Sven: A hectic work schedule and forthcoming festivities limited my ability to undertake a rigorous training session. The most I managed was a 21km run and 44km bike ride. Instead I focused on hydration and nutritional preparation a few days prior to the race.

Me: This isn’t your first Ultra but I am a relatively new runner. My question is how did you manage the mental stamina to keep you going for 7 laps?

Sven: My plan was to break down the event into small manageable chunks. I focused on one lap at a time by aiming to do something different for each lap, thereby giving me something to look forward to. For instance, I chose not to listen to any music on the first two laps. I spent them listening to my body, my breathing and admiring my surroundings. MacRitchie is a beautiful nature reserve and easy to appreciate.

As the third lap was approaching, I was looking forward to switching on my music and by the fifth lap my wife joined me and got me past the minimum 50km requirement.

At this point I could have stopped, collected my medal and finisher tee but I still felt strong and in the zone. I was also well fed and hydrated and figured why not another lap. Off I went and two laps later I happily crossed that finish line at 72km in 10:58hours.

Me: It’s not unusual for participants to undernourish their bodies or rely on water stations only for hydration. How did you manage your breaks, hydration and sustenance?

Sven: My initial breaks were a bit slow with one of them taking 28 minutes. Unfortunately I underestimated the weather. The food I had frozen overnight, so that it would remain cold during the race, didn’t defrost in time for my earlier breaks. I lost too much time hacking away at it trying to get some sustenance into my body, followed by hydration, insect repellent, suntan lotion top up, and bathroom pit stops. On the other hand this gave my legs plenty of rest and allowed me to pace myself to minimise cramping and/or injuries. On the upside, I managed to get better with each break and reduce the last one to a mere 7 minutes.

Quite often you could end up injured as the muscles seize up from lack of electrolytes in the body. My strategy was to carry two small bottles that I would drip feed during the lap and top up at the hydration stations. To get some variation from all the Pocari, I used berry flavoured electrolyte tablets at the start/finish point. All that kept me hydrated and my legs free of severe cramps.

In terms of sustenance I indulged in bananas and my own homemade frozen smoothie that I would spoon a few mouthfuls at the end of each lap.

Me: How did you feel physically throughout the race?

Sven: After the first 10km, my legs felt really heavy and I doubted that I would complete the course. As I worked my way through the second lap, my legs didn’t get any worse which encouraged me to keep going. At around lap 6 my left quad and right hamstring were starting to slightly cramp but it was manageable and didn’t seem to get any worse.

Quite surprisingly my fastest lap was the last one (the 7th) where I even managed to run one part of the loop at a 5.46min/k clip during a state of runner’s bliss. I finished this last lap in 74 minutes. Had I not lost so much time during my early breaks I would have been able to complete another lap but with only an hour left, I knew it wasn’t long enough.

Me: This was your first MR25 experience and I’m sure you’ve learnt a few things that you would do differently. What would that be?

Sven: The frozen food was my biggest problem that I could easily rectify by having a refrigerated container for the first half and a frozen container for the second half of the race. I won’t be spending any time hacking and losing precious minutes. Ideally, I also segregate my hydration and meal needs into individual packages so I minimise how much time I waste rummaging through my bag finding things. The same with the individually wrapped electrolyte tablets that I struggled with at times to take the plastic wrapping off due to sweaty/greasy hands. Getting the plastic tube version makes dispensing much faster and easier.

Me: What was your view of the event organisation?

Sven: The event was fine. Perhaps the organiser might consider better signage at turning points. There were marshals along the way for the first two laps but if a competitor was unfamiliar with the route and in the zone, he/she ran the risk of missing a turn, losing valuable time.

Me: What was your overall experience?

Sven: This was my first MR25 and overall it was a good race. I was happy that I suffered no injuries and managed more than the minimum requirement. I think the way I managed my hydration and rest period helped minimise cramping and fatigue. I would however, refine how I organise my bag and the format of my breaks in order to make it more efficient and reduce time. Needless to say, it would be helpful to actually train for this! Running just once during the month leading up to the MR25 and having done only one other trail run in 25 years is utterly insufficient to maximize performance and minimize the risk of injury.

Me: Would you do it again?

Sven: At first, I didn’t think so but now that I am rested and reflecting on the experience, I can’t wait for the next crazy run…

Thanks Sven, for your time. It’s always fun talking about your racing experiences, nutrition and overall sporting activities.

As the year gains traction so does Team Costa with a full schedule of running and cycling races, triathlons, aquathlons and obstacle courses.

Photo credits: PictureArt and Michelle Bryant-Seyffert

3 Things That Keep Me Running in Singapore

By

Pushing Forward

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January 8, 2015

To get away for an hour or two from the fast paced and stressful daily life

Most of us are familiar with the daily grind. Getting up at 6am, sending the kids to school by 7am, sending the spouse to work by 8am, and reaching office by 9am. As if the two hours of traffic jams to start the day isn’t bad enough. Getting out of office by 6pm, picking the spouse and kids by 7pm. Getting stuck in another jam thereafter. Reaching home at 8pm for dinner. Wash, rinse and repeat 5 days a week, and this is life for most of us in Singapore.

I need to run to release accumulated tension and stress.

To get into the trend of running

Every weekend there is a race. “Run For …“, “Race For …“, “… Run” and “… Marathon”

In the last few years, running has become the “in” thing in Singapore. The competitive aspect of racing certainly speaks to most Singaporeans. For some, racing is about obtaining a finisher tee, wearing them around during the weekend as hard-earned bragging rights. And why not? It beats spending every weekend in a club till 5am.

For me, running and racing is about enhancing my lifestyle during the weekends. Rather than lying in bed till the kids wake up for another mundane weekend of shopping and eating, I would rather have the chance to spend 2-3 hours to myself, contemplating life through engaging with nature rather than buying into the culture of superficial wants and desires.

To look fit and healthy

In our mid-thirties, we dread the day people start greeting us with, “Hello, Uncle!” Most of us no longer bother about our appearances outside of work. But I do. Looking good and feeling good are the first steps to lifting my morale daily. It helps me cultivate a positive attitude, rather than being negative and grumpy about all the small things. I’m positively receiving and enjoying challenges that comes along every other hour.

As we have seen over the past weeks from all the news stories around the world, disaster and dangers lurk in every corner. Life is short. Running helps me make the most of life.

Why run? I say, why not?

Running guide to Pandan Reservoir

By

TheRunningAngmoh

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January 7, 2015

A good alternative in the west

Singapore streets are filled with runners, yet, I feel like Pandan Reservoir has not received the attention it deserves. That’s why I’ve been wanting to write about it ever since I first ran it (many months ago), but only now I got the time to get around it. I hope you will enjoy this guide!

How to get there

At the time I was staying at the NUS campus. I used to run a lot along Commonwealth Avenue West which is one of the ways you can reach Pandan Reservoir. Commonwealth Avenue West has a wide sidewalk allowing for uninterrupted and comfortable running, so if you you want to visit Pandan Reservoir and you are coming from the east, I suggest you take this way.

Looking the map now, it seems that at some point Commonwealth Avenue West is renamed to Boon Lay Way, but that doesn’t matter that much. Just keep on running west. Approximately 2.5 km after passing Clementi you will need to make left into the canal walkway, just before you hit International Business Center. There are Park Connector signs and markings so it’s hard to miss. From the PCN entrance to Pandan Reservoir is about 1.5 km. Running down the canal is quite nice itself. There are a few trees offering shade and people biking or taking a stroll. There is lighting along the way for nighttime runs/walks. Further down along the PCN you will have to cross AYE, but fret not, since there is an overpass allowing you to do so without getting out of your way.

entry to pandan canal — Just before reaching International Business Center, take a left into the PCN shown right after this bridge.

pandan river singapore running — The PCN running along the canal, leading to Pandan Reservoir

pandan river aye singapore — Overpass AYE on the way to Pandan Reservoir

Soon enough you will find yourself at West Coast Road where the elevated path can be seen. Climb up the slope to access the jogging path and for a better view of the reservoir. There is not much to say from here on… Just Run Lah!

A few things to keep in mind

The reservoir has a circumference of 6 km and it is totally unshaded. I once made the mistake of running there at a very hot day around noon, and at some points the heat became almost unbearable. So plan your run carefully!

Hydration might become a problem since you are running completely on your own. I only saw one public water point / toilet along the way, at the corner of Penjuru Road and West Coast Road. There is also a canoeing club / gym (I think it’s the Singapore Rowing Association) at the other “corner” of the reservoir (you can’t really say “corner” for such a shape, but I feel it still makes sense somehow); the guys there were kind enough to offer me some cool water. I am marking these points for you at the map that follows.

Overall, I think that it’s a great place to run, and an excellent alternative for the runners who prefer more quiet and off-beat routes. Let me know your stories and favourite routes, and see you around!

Race Review: West Coast Mazda Run 2015 [6km] (by ‘runforfun’)

By

ser

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January 6, 2015

First run for 2015!

Really excited for this run as this is the first run that was organized by West Coast Grassroots Organization which is super near my house. Which also means that I can wake up at 7am and still make it to the run that starts at 8am for the 6km run =P

This run is more of a family run and is not for those who are looking to run seriously as they do not have the electronic timing available and also the route is also not conducive for serious runners. In fact, I think the route is also not family-friendly as well as part of the route requires us to cross the West Coast Highway from West Coast Park so that we can reach our finish point at the West Coast Community Centre.

That aside, the post race activities are really interesting for those who brought their children along for the run. There are many performances and activities which will interest the children, adults as well as the elderly.

It was nice to have a sporting activity within a community and hope that there will be more such activities to come. Right Side Content

-runforfun.justrunlah-

Race Review: The Mileage New Year Run 2015 (by Rabbitteesh)

By

Rabbitteesh

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January 1, 2015

HELLO 2015!

With all resolutions in place, the New Year Run is a must.

A short review on the Mileage New Year Run 2015 held on 1st January 2015.

Pre-race:

Collection of the running tee was at Activ360 by Zen’Yu, Novena Square, Velocity. As I was unable to collect the running tee myself, I emailed the person in charge and the person in charge was very pleasant and had helped to keep the running tee till race day. Thus, I collected it on race day itself at Punggol Park at 6.45 am and was greeted with pleasant smiles from the organisers. There is no buses to pick you up from anywhere. There is a cut-off timing for the race which is 1 hour 40 minutes. A reasonable time. The fee is only $15.

The route:

It was a 10km route. From Punggol Park, Hougang Avenue 8 to Sengkang-Punggol Park Connector or you can call it Waterfront Promenade and back.

Water points:

There was only 1 water point, just outside of the Uncle Leong Restaurant where the prawning area is at. They had 2 choices of fluid, water and 100Plus which I think it is good as runners have a choice of water. Having 1 water is good enough, in my opinion cause it is just a 10km.

Amenities:

Toilets were easily available at the parks so there was no sight of the mobile toilets. There are also vending machines in the parks if runners want to grab a drink before and after the race. Just opposite of Punggol Park, where the Start and Finish points are located, a 24 hour coffee shop is sighted. So for those runners who feel accomplished can actually have their breakfast there too.

Runner’s entitlements:

As it only cost $15, each runner was given an exclusive event’s tee and a race bib and that’s all.

Race day:

There were 5 different pacers, 40 mins, 45 mins, 50 mins, 55 mins and 60 mins, who led the group along the way. The pacers were young and energetic which was important for a race. They had a reporting time at 0620 and a short briefing at 0720 and the race started at 0733 after arranging all the runners with the pacers.

Overall:

It was an eventful run to start the new year. If you set a new year resolution and love carry it out, this run is a great start. Runners greeting each other, “Happy New Year” and cheering each other on. Especially for those who stay in Hougang, Sengkang and Punggol, this run is really for you. I took less than 15 minutes to reach the location which is hard to come by as most runs are in the town areas of Singapore.

“I’m as good as anybody out there”

By

Team JustRunLah!

-

January 1, 2015

I’ve come a long way to get to where I am now.

Like many of us I have gone through long hours of pounding and tearing through dirt, most of the times soaked in mud, day in and day out. The hottest tropical sun is no threat to me and my kind. This is how we were built. We endure and never complain.

In my early years I trained in village trails. City folks have never heard of me, nor did they know how good I was and what I was capable of. But deep down inside I knew I could be the underdog that was ready to challenge. Just. About. Anyone.

Okay, so those were the dark days. I am different now. I have a status, because if it wasn’t for me, Guianus, Kona and Danny* wouldn’t have gone through Eco Challenge, Mild Seven Outdoor Quest, and even the world’s toughest mountain race, the Mt Kinabalu Climbathon and won. I’m proud to say that I have raced side-by-side with the great Kilian, Matsumoto and Frost. The discovery of me in trail racing was truly rewarding. I have earned my space in Wikipedia.

Don’t compare me with the rest, I’m comfortable in only one colour and I am a minimalist on my own. I don’t give much for zero drop or gel cushioning. I am solid and wherever I go I am in one piece. I will take you through 1000km without falling apart. My studs will grip any slippery surface and rip apart tough trails. Give me mud and I will eat it.

Don’t you know who I am? I am the champion’s shoe.

Sincerely,

Adidas Kampung

Editor’s note: Adidas Kampung is a product famously made in Sabah, Malaysia. The name ‘Adidas Kampung’ literally means ‘town Adidas’, is no way related to the popular German brand but an easy reference by village folks who wear these shoes a lot. It is 100% made of rubber and is available in sundry markets around Kota Kinabalu (KK) for around S$3. In the outskirts of KK they are available for as low as S$2. Their traditional colour is black although fashionable white ones are now taking over the trails of Mt Kinabalu that will not hide traces of mud. This new trend is not favoured by the older generation. Adidas Kampung could not be reached for comments.

*Guianus Salagan, wife Kona Liau were part of the 4-person unforgettable ‘Team Sabah’ for Eco-Challenge 2000. Guianus was crowned Mountain King in the 90s and early 2000s. Both are 3-hour range runners for marathon distance. Danny Kuilin Gongot is a 47-year old grandmother and a rubber tapper from Kundasang, Sabah. She is a podium runner in Mt Kinabalu Climbathon and Pilipinas Akyathlon who wears a size 4.5 (UK) pair of Adidas Kampung.

This story is sponsored by Sabah Tourism Board.

Goals Rush for 2015

By

ser

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December 31, 2014

Like every new year, many people will create their resolutions for the upcoming year. What they are going to do? What they are going to learn? What are they aiming to complete?

For me, I have never created such a list before. However, for the year 2015, I will create one specially for running. I started running for a number of years already but I only started running long distances in 2014. I finished my first half-marathon in 2014 and that is why in 2015, I am going to challenge a full marathon. Not only that, I wish that my timings for the shorter runs could improve as well.

2015 New Year Resolutions by runforfun

1. Complete a full marathon.
[Either Sundown or Standard Chartered]

2. Complete a half-marathon within 2hr 10min (last timing was 2hr 27min)
[2XU Compression Run 2015]

3. Complete a 10km run within 55min (last timing was 1hr 5min)

4. Complete a 5km run within 25min (last timing was 35min)
[Venus Run 2015]

What New Year Resolutions have you listed for yourself?

2015 will be a great year!!!! [self-assumed =D]

-runforfun.justrunlah-