Alex Ong (top) and Ivan Low (left) are both regular podium finishers in the Singapore running scene.
Ivan, who picked up running only in 2011, has come a long way since then. Within one short year of his introduction to the sport, he stole the show, with a third-placed finish in the 21km race at the 2012 Sundown Marathon.
And then last year, he won the 10km Men’s relay race at the same event.
Alex won the 42km race – at the 2012 Sundown Marathon. It marked his first win at a Full Marathon event.
Last year, he took part in the Full Marathon again and came in third. Come May, he hopes to conquer the same race again, in a time of less than three hours.
Here are a few tips from these two top runners on how to prepare for the big night race.
How to stay awake at night
For both Alex and Ivan, keeping the body alert during a night run is definitely a huge challenge. Consequently, their personal timings may often be slower than those clocked at early morning races. Ivan advises that sleeping during the day may help to ensure that the body can cope with the rigors of running past midnight. Alex says that you could gradually tune your body clock so that it learns to stay awake at night.
Carbo Loading
Alex also shared some useful tips about carbo loading, a common pre-race practice for runners. Generally, he feels that it is good to start increasing carbohydrate content, about two to three days before the race. Some of his personal favourites include spaghetti, bananas and sweet potatoes.
Speed and Pacing
Meanwhile, Ivan Low has some useful tips regarding training in speed and pacing. These include assessing your current conditioning and setting training goals that are within your ability. Doing interval training on a smooth, flat surface such as a running track would also be good training.
As the first and largest running event in the west of Singapore, Jurong Lake Run aims to promote healthy living and bring together people from all walks of life. Organised in the middle of each year at Jurong Lake Park, Chinese Garden and Japanese Garden, Jurong Lake Run infuses the typically serene landscape with fun and excitement.
Jurong Lake Run is a not-for-profit volunteer-driven event. Our motto – “Running as One” – represents the importance of community spirit; the importance of working together and contributing to society. Every year, volunteers come together to make Jurong Lake Run possible and a portion of our proceeds is donated to our adopted beneficiaries.
This year, four (4) of our readers will have the opportunity to enter this outstanding running event for free!
In order to successfully enter the contest, you must:
Sorry for being MIA for a pretty long while. As a final year student in University, I have been mugging and slogging my guts out for my final year project (FYP). I still am mugging now but have decided to take some time out to keep you guys posted.
So, I am aware that, or rather, I assume that most of you who are reading this now do enjoy and love running. Most of you have probably joined countless marathons, have tried coming up with various running routes that Singapore can offer, or, are trying to clock in your next marathon with a whole new record.
Yet, there is always the minority and we should not neglect that. Some of you who are reading this now are probably trying to find some new inspiration or ideas to lose weight, to stay fit or simply, to be healthier. Some might have signed up a marathon or a race due to peer pressure and are desperately trying to force yourself to get into a training mode now. Some might be trying to understand what make your loved ones or your partner love running that much.
Image credit: 123RF
Well, being just an ordinary girl who got into the habit of running since young, who went through a phase in which I ran daily so that I do not have to retake my NAPFA, to a young lady now who wishes she can join any marathons that interests her, I am here wishing that with my years of experiences in and passion for running, I am able to give you guys some tips to like and enjoy running. I may not be a professional athlete but I believe that is what might make these tips more useful and relatable to you guys.
1) Make sure you get a pair of running shoes that suits you. To do that, make sure you know your feet well. (Whether you have a pair of high-arched feet or low-arched feet). You can surf the net to know what type does your feet belong to (for example see here) or if you are still unsure about that, head to any sports outlets and the sales personnel there should be able to guide you about that. The Reebok outlets at Tampines Mall and Velocity provide such services. Trust me, a suitable pair of running shoes makes running a lot easier and enjoyable for you. The wrong pair of running shoes will in fact, cause injuries to you legs and posture.
2) If you are a music lover, download some of your favourite songs or songs that are more pumped-up into your iPod and bring it along with you for your run. Surveys have proven that listening to music does allow you to run a further distance and even, faster. Not to forget, if you do not know what are the songs that can allow you to feel more pumped-up for a run, just google “the top workout songs” and so on, a list of songs will appear.
3) If you are running to lose weight, do not expect an immediate effect. I know many of us do but let us face the reality, your body needs time too. After every run, look into the mirror and spot the slight improvements in it. The improvements might be little but patience pays off. In just a few months, you will be able to see the huge transformation you have been waiting for. It is also important to note that diet is a key factor to your management of your weight too so make sure your diet and your running routine go hand in hand. Do not let your diet ruin the efforts you have put into your runs.
4) If you are new at running, try not to start off too fast, too far or aim too high. Start off at a comfortable pace and aim to finish a distance that would not overstretch yourself. Make your 1st run a pleasant and enjoyable one. If your 1st run is a torturing one, I am pretty sure you will not want to run anymore.
5) If you are in need of motivations to run, get a running buddy, join a running club or sign up for a race! Make plans with your running buddy or aim to complete the race within your targeted timing. They are pretty good motivators.
6) If you have always found that running is a boring sport, try to find new running routes. Singapore might be small but we sure do have many running routes. We have the Park Connectors, the beaches, or even, you can run in town around Marina Bay Sands or Clarke Quay. You will be surprised at the scenery that these running routes can provide you with at times.
7) Learn to enjoy the feeling of sweating it out. There is no better feeling than sweating it out and feeling satisfied after completing a run.
So, here are the few tips that I have shared with you guys. Hope they are helpful and relatable to many of you!
You are always welcome to chip in your suggestions in the comments below!
Update: Thanks everyone, for your support. This auction is now closed and the highest bidder will be contacted.
Are you keen to get your hands on a pair of limited edition New Balance running shoes that will be launched next month?
I am having a charity auction for a pair of these beautiful shoes.
A Rare Opportunity
These will be out in stores only next month. But through my charity auction, you can have a rare opportunity to bid for a pair now.
The shoes are part of the New Balance 890v4 Global City Running Pack, which is a set of four limited edition shoes that represent four major cities around the world – Boston, London, Rome and Tokyo.
I will be auctioning off the ‘London’ (forest green) shoes.
The auction will last from now until 20 April.
The Shoes
The ‘London’ shoes are forest or moss green in colour – the international motor-racing colour of the United Kingdom.
And the shoes bears the number ‘06’ – to commemorate 1906, when New Balance was founded.
100 per cent of proceeds go to charity
100 per cent of proceeds from the auction will go to the Singapore Disability Sports Council – for their members to fulfil their sporting dreams. They are one of the four charities that are supported by Sundown Marathon this year.
So by bidding, you will be helping a good cause – and gaining a beautiful, limited edition pair of shoes – that you can use for the Sundown Marathon in May.
To find out more about these limited edition 890v4 ‘London’ shoes and how to place your bid, click here.
Age is no barrier to achieving your personal dreams and aspirations. And 50-year-old doctor Joanna Lin, can definitely attest to this.
For she took part in – and conquered – her very first Full Ironman race, at the Asia-Pacific leg of the IRONMAN World Championship which was held last month. Her timing was 16 hours and 44 minutes.
The IRONMAN Asia-Pacific Championship, which debuted in 2012, takes place in the sporting capital of Australia, Melbourne. It comprises a swim in Frankston, south of the city and its biking course incorporates the Eastlink Tollway. The run course commences at Frankston and concludes in St. Kilda, in the shadows of the skyline of Melbourne.
A 50th birthday present to herself
The Ironman race was Joanna’s 50th birthday present to herself and she had wanted to push her limits to see how far she could go.
The avid triathlete, who only took up the sport about five years ago, has since gone on to complete several races, including Half Marathons, Full Marathons and triathlons.
Most gruelling race ever so far
But the Ironman Melbourne was the most gruelling race that she has ever participated in, especially because of the head wind that she faced during the bicycling leg and having to make do with inadequate lighting during the running leg – when the sun had already well and truly set.
Nevertheless, this Iron Woman can feel pleased with her inaugural Full Ironman race – and possibly for her, there will be more such races on the cards, in the near future.
Click here for an in-depth interview with Dr Joanna Lin on her Ironman experience.
A totally new type of running event, organised for a good cause, will take place worldwide on 4th of May at 10:00am UTC. East Asia is represented by South Korea (Jeonnam) and Taiwan (Hualien). While registration for Taiwan has closed (participation limit reached), there is still time to register for the race in South Korea and be part for this unique event!
The Whole World Is Running
The Wings for Life World Run is an entirely new type of event never before seen or undertaken in either running or any other sporting field. It is a truly global adventure, encompassing up to forty locations, in which everyone runs at the very same time all over the world! 100% of the proceeds from the event will go to the Wings for Life foundation, which funds research into curing spinal cord injury. The run will unite athletes around the world in one race, running for those who can’t!
“What is exciting about the Wings for Life World Run is that it actually has a starting line, but there is no finish line, and I think that concept is magic,” said Olympic medalist Colin Jackson of Great Britain, who is the Wings for Life World Run sports director. “A car will be chasing you down, half an hour after you started. It’s never been done before. You could be in New Zealand, you could be in South Africa, you could be in Great Britain. The races all start at the same time.”
With no finish line ahead — just Catchers Cars chasing from behind — this is a race with a twist. It is the ultimate test of each runner’s boundaries and abilities, with the last person running being crowned the global winner. The Wings for Life World Run ace isn’t just about physiological abilities; it needs incredible psychological strength, too. You’re not just running against the rest of the field in your location but against runners worldwide, AND you’re being chased by a car — it’s an extraordinary challenge even for the best runners. You know where you start, but you do not know your finish!
South Korea Is In!
The scenic Jeonnam, one of the cities where the race will take place.
South Korea will welcome thousands of runners to Jeollanam-do’s Yeongam and Mokpo, where it’s past history and modern scenery were created harmoniously. The race will begin on the Korea International Circuit, home of the iconic Korean F1 Grand Prix. Continuing the trail, one will soon cross the 4,000m Mokpo Bridge and discover its beautiful night view. Eventually the runners will discover Mokpo’s Peace Square which is located on a road running parallel to the ocean. You can’t miss the beautiful glow of the fountain central to the square. Passing the Daebul Industry Complex, which is central to the south western economic stronghold in the local area, you will be able to finish the race at the Yeongam Public Stadium.
Wings For Life World Run runners will experience the city’s historical tourist attractions with its outstanding architecture, beautiful coastline and vast landscapes. Most importantly, running on behalf of those who cannot is a unique global sporting event. Runners will also help in taking precious steps for the foundation in finding a cure for those with debilitating spinal cord injuries.
Registration for the Jeonnam race is open until April 20th 2014, for everyone being at least 18 years old on the race day. The entry fee is 50,000 KRW (approx. S$ 60).
Wings For Life World Run 2014: Jeonnam, South Korea route,
The race format
SIMULTANEOUSLY RUNNING ALL OVER THE WORLD The Wings For Life World Run is the first event in which the entire World can race together, simultaneously. This groundbreaking race format means that on the 4th of May 2014, at 10am UTC, and equivalent times across the globe, thousands of competitors will start to run on up to 35 race tracks worldwide. On this day the world will run as one.
UNIQUE RUNNING EXPERIENCE The format of the Wings For Life World Run is a first in not only in running but also of all sporting events. Routes will be defined but runners will not be running a set distance, as unlike normal races the finish line is chasing them rather than them running towards it; in short you know where you start, but you do not know your finish. This is how it works: half an hour after the start signal sounds and the first runners leave the start line official catcher cars will simultaneously set off at each course, pursuing the runners. This pace will accelerate at determined intervals to a rigid global schedule. When the catcher car passes a runner their race is over and its time to catch the shuttle back to start area and celebrate.
The “catcher car” – A new type of finishing line! Photo credit: Samo Vidic/Red Bull Content Pool
So, what does the Catcher Car actually do? The Catcher Car chases the runners; it’s the moving finish line. When it passes a runner, that runner is out of the race. To give participants a sporting chance, cars start at 10.30 UTC, thirty minutes after the runners have set off. For the first hour, the speed is 15km/h, steady and unchanging, and then progressively increasing.
Yes, by miracle tape, I’m referring to those colorful tapes that you see on runners and athletes. These tapes were made famous during the 2008 Beijing Olympics by the beach volleyball players (I think, do correct me if I’m mistaken here). I was skeptical to try them at first, but after the 2013 Standard Chartered Marathon, I had a niggling ankle pain that would not go away. Tried all kinds of solutions, but none really work, and the 2XU marathon was really coming up. I then decided to give these tapes a trial…. and voila, they actually worked!
I taped my ankle like how they show on the video, and I was running like there was no pain at all! It’s amazing… prior to that, no matter how much I had read about the theory of it, I just couldn’t convince myself that it will work. But it does… at least it seems there is no placebo effect here, because pain is pain, you can definitely feel it. So I’m sold… and convince that these tapes do work (for me, at least).
I love exploring places running, so when I first heard about this “free form” event, I knew I had to sign up. For those not familiar with the concept (I for once had never heard of such an event before), runners are given a map just before the flag-off with a number of checkpoint stations marked. There is no predefined route or road closures, and you get to choose the order you clear the checkpoints. After clearing them all, you have to get back to the starting point (Marina Barrage). There were four categories, namely, 5 km (Mini distance), 15 km (Short distance), 25 km (Mid distance) and 45 km (Long distance). I went for the “Short distance”, which was proven to be not so short after all!
Flag-off for my category was at 9:00am (a bit too late!), so I was at Marina Barrage around 8:00am. I was a bit disappointed that there was no baggage deposit, as I use public transportation and have no place to leave my stuff. So, this time I had to carry on a change of clothes (along with keys etc). At least we were informed about this in advance. In any case, no long queues at the starting pen and pretty much a lax atmosphere. Runners had to check-in half an hour in advance, this is when you are given a string backpack and the map with the check-in stations.
Study the map for 15-20 mins and chit-chat around to discuss optimal routes, and off we go. I decided to clear Masjid Sultan Mosque first, then Orchard Rd since those were the two most distant ones. Then I would go for Fort Canning, Sri Thendayuthapani Temple and finally Chinatown before heading back to Marina Barrage. The majority of the people I talked to were thinking to do it the other way around but I stuck to my original plan.
Getting ready for the run!
Getting to Arab Street was easy, as was getting to Orchard Rd from there. Running on a Sunday morning in Orchard is not an easy task; talk about an obstacle course! After clearing that check-point, my plan was to get on Scotts Rd and then Orchand Boulevard, Devonshire and Oxley, all the way down to Clemencau Avenue. Here is where I got a bit lost. I am not familiar with this area and I got a wrong turn on Scotts Rd. I was running in circles for a while, so I decided to change the plan and retrace along Orchard Rd for a while. After clearing Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, I made my way up to Fort Canning, and it was rather easy to find the Buddha Tooth Relic station after that. One of the highlights of my run had to be the refreshing coconut I got along the way in Chinatown! While trying to make my way back to Marina Barrage I missed a turn so I ended up to Clarke Quay instead. From there, I ran by the Esplanade and finally got back to Marina Barrage.
My route for the “Short Distance” category, Nathan Singapore City Race 2014
Plenty of food and hydration was waiting for us, along with a nicely-designed ELM medal. According to my GPS, I tracked about 20 km for the “15 km” route; it was fun getting lost!
Nathan Singapore City Race 2014 finisher medal
In summary:
Pros:
A unique and fun concept.
Especially fun when signing up as team (Just Run Lah! team for next year anybody? 🙂
The provided map was of high-quality
Nice finisher medal.
Cons / room for improvement:
Flag-off should be earlier, the heat was almost unbearable.
I have added Pocari Sweat Singapore on Facebook ever since I have joined the Pocari Sweat Run 2013. Why?
It is to make sure that I will be the first few to sign up for Pocari Sweat Run 2014.
Pocari Sweat Run 2013 was well- organised. With ample water stations, clear signages and encouraging road marshals, I remembered having an enjoyable and satisfying 10km. Despite the fact that it clashed with Fathers’ Day last year, it still garnered a huge amount of support as evident from the crowd. In fact, the race tee that was sponsored by Adidas last year is one of the most comfortable running tees I have had from many races.
A few days ago, Pocari Sweat Singapore posted their release of the race tee designs on Facebook. I have to say they do look good for both men and women. The one on the left with be for men, and the one on the right will be for women. It is sponsored by 2XU this time round. Having just completed my 2xu 10km race with the 2XU running tee, I have a pretty good impression of racing tees sponsored by 2XU.
Pocari Sweat Run 2014 Singlet
Not to forget, the closing date for the registration of Pocari Sweat Run is soon!
So what are you guys waiting for?
Sign up for one of the best races in Singapore, hydrate yourself with one of the best sports drinks ever after the run and, feel good in one of the best designed running tees ever!
NUS Open Day was hosted last weekend at UTown, the newest part of the Kent Ridge campus. NUS Sports Committee and RunNUS Organising Committee had their own booth and activities. The following flyer was circulated, and apparently RunNUS will make its return on 23rd August 2014. I took part in last year’s event and it left me with good memories, so I can’t wait to join this year’s edition.
Details about the race are still not known, but it is expected to be the biggest yet of the series. I personally hope they add a finisher’s medal, and I wouldn’t mind it being at the expense of the finisher’s t-shirt.
Find out more / connect with RunNUS 2014 through their Facebook page.
The sky was still dark though a glimmer of dawn was evident. Yet, the excited faces of the 10km runners shone brightly as they started to proceed to the starting point of the race that was opened at 645am. Before the race started, some of them were taking photos as evidences that they are participants of one of the world’s most popular race ever, some of them were doing warm-ups to get ready to ace the run (just like me) whilst others were pumping themselves up with music.
The horn sounded and here we go! Having participated in other races before, I am glad that the path for the starting point of 10km was wide enough for one to manoeuvre his/her way out instead of getting blocked by other runners. The first 5km was a breeze with water stations at every 2km. Restrooms were conveniently located within close distances too. Not to forget, road marshals and signages of the distance we have completed were clearly located. In fact, despite having to share the road with the 21km and 42km runners after 8km of our race route, there was no experience of overcrowding or a lack of space to run freely. Bravo to the careful planning of the race routes.
The scenery we ran past was breathtaking too. The beautiful architecture of the upcoming Singapore Sports Hub, the one and only Singapore flyer and the glistening Kallang River in the morning as it reflected off the sunlight of the morning sun. This is in fact one of the most relaxing and satisfied races I have ever had.
Picturesque scenery, comfortable race routes, clear signages. Perfect combination for a good race.
The cold towels provided at the end of the race was a total bonus to add on the my good impression of this race. Massage corners were available for full marathon runners too. The Yellow Fellows had a booth to themselves to encourage runners to contribute a little to aid the cancer victims and their friends/family whilst the stage was packed with post-race activities.
Well, I survived the 2XU marathon, and not only survived… I achieved a better timing than the previous timing by 15mins. Not only I achieve a better timing, I felt quite good after the run, and felt that I can go on for another few km… I was nursing an ankle injury, but with the help of the KT tape, I actually pulled through and did not aggravate the injury further… quite amazing what that synthetic tape can do. There is the inevitable soreness and pain over the past 2 days, but I’m amazed that I recover so quickly. I attribute the improved timing and quick recovery to the time I spend cross-training, ie. in the gym, swimming, and a little bit of boxing. I guess all these help build my endurance, energy and core muscles which help me in running.
I’m now gunning for the next marathon to finish below 5 hours.
However, it is very saddening to hear that a fellow runner collapsed and passed away during the run. I actually pass by the location where he collapsed, there were a few runners trying to help him. A reminder that we must take care of our body and health, regardless of how fit we think we are. My condolence to the family, and may he rest in peace.
A couple of weeks ago, the new series of Takumi racing flats were launched in Japan. These racing flats are the premium marathon shoes from Adidas and is renowned for its responsiveness. I have personally wore the first series of Takumi Sen for all my races.
You may refer to my simple review of Takumi Sen here.
From top to bottom: Takumi Sen v2 , Takumi Ren v2, Takumi Idomi v1.
Here you have it, the new series of Takumi. The new season of Takumi running shoes is unisex. Takumi Idomi is new and resembles the Boston series at first sight. It is supposed to act as a training shoe which was missing out in the original Takumi series.
Takumi Sen V2
There will be two colorways for Takumi Sen v2 at launch. Not sure whether there will be new colors, but judging from series 1, the chances are high. From the looks of it, the outsole retains the continental rubber for cushioning. It seemed similar compared to V1. I was a heel striker back then and this piece of rubber last me 400km. The bulk of the sole seemed to receive an ‘upgrade’, every bit of rubber seemed larger compared to Sen v1. Sen v1 is responsive and has a firm ride and i wouldn’t expect Sen 2 to be lacking in that aspect with minimal modifications.
Adidas Takumi Sen v2, 2014
The upper design also feature some changes in the forefoot area. In v2, there is no plastic overlays around your forefoot upper. This modification should potentially allow better flexibility during toe off. Other than that, the meshed-like structure makes this an extremely breathable shoe.
The shoelaces also received an upgrade. Sen v1 laces looks good to the eye but doesn’t seem to hold the upper well. Sen v2 looks to remedy that with more traditional and flatter laces.
Sen v2 retains weighs in at 175grams compared to 173grams for Sen v1, no much difference here.
Takumi Ren V2
I used to own a Takumi Ren before, but unfortunately the heel did not fit me well. I seemed to be weighed down by it everytime I toe off and I sold it off soon after.
Adidas Takumi Ren v2, 2014
Prior to Idomi, the Ren is supposed to be the slightly heavier, more cushioned ‘trainer’. Based on the specs, the weight of the shoe remains the same as V1.
From what I understand, the orange version will be launched in March 1st 2014. Much have been speculated about the colorways of these shoes. There were sources stating there might be ‘wide’ versions in Ren and this news should delight runners requiring larger widths for their racing shoes. There are also speculation stating specific female colorways and thus doesn’t make this a unisex shoe. Do note these speculations might be untrue at time of publishing.
This shoe retains the breathable racing upper, high traction out-sole which looks 90% similar to Sen v2 and is worth a try for anyone wanting a new racing flat. Expect a firm ride on Ren v2.
Takumi Idomi
By the looks of it, it looks like the ‘Japanese version’ of Boston series in the US market. The weight is similar to Boston and so is the design of the upper and sole.
Adidas Takumi Idomi, 2014
This shoe is marketed as the trainer version of the Takumi series for runners aiming for a Sub-5 marathon. The sole as you can see is much thicker than Ren and provides more durability with much more significant rubber overlays across the sole. Black colorway is the rumored wide version for Takumi Idomi.
I got my Takumi Sen v2 from Hong Kong at HKD1099. Sorry for the lousy pictures as i took it in the hotel. I took one run to break in and i raced with it in the Hong Kong Marathon the very next day. Initial impressions seemed extremely similar with Sen, not much changes and seemed like an exact prototype to it. Upper with its changes gives a more secure fit while retaining the meshy structure to encourage breathability.
The Takumi series are not available in Singapore at time of publishing.
One more week before the 2XU Marathon… I’m actually not quite ready, my longest run this month has only been 14km. Been somewhat busy with work, and a whole lot of other stuff, just couldn’t have enough time to commit to run a 21km.
Oh well, it’s a little too late to do anything now… Having ran a few marathon, I have come to realised it really is all in the mind. Injury aside, it is all about one’s mental strength to want to complete the 42.2km.
I’m still gunning to better my previous time of a 5:30 finish…. remember I said no more trying new shoes a couple of blogs ago? Haha.. I did not keep to my own words, I bought the Kayano 20 today and planned to run around with it in the next few days, and use it for the 2XU marathon next Sunday.
