Income Eco Run 2018 RECP Farmers’ Market

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March 9, 2018

Your preparations for the Income Eco Run would not be complete without the Income Eco Run Farmers’ Market and Race Entry Pack Collection (REPC) on 14-15 April 2018!

Taking place at the F1 Pit Building, collect your Income Eco Run race entry gear and treat yourself to wholesome bites and drinks from a slew of local and eco vendors such as Beans to Bar, VeganBurg, Bettr Barista and Bushwick Biotech.

Kick-starting a zero waste lifestyle is easier than you think! Find out how you can take the first step towards sustainable living at our green partners’ booths, or pick up a skill and fulfill your green-finger dreams at our workshops run by Edible Garden City, Zero Waste SG and more. From upcycling, to learning how to DIY your own household and beauty products, there’s is something for everyone of all ages at the Farmers’ Market!

Schedule:

Participating Booths & Activities:

Official Apparel – New Balance
Official Sports Nutrition – High 5
Official Muscle Rub – Starbalm
Supporting Partners – Coached, ofo, Phoenix Rehab Group
Green Partners – Tzu Chi Foundation
Running Magazine – Run Magazine
All Good Things – Conscious living market grocer
Amazin’ Graze’ – Healthy snacks & breakfast delivery
Artisan’s Garden – Soy wax melts
Balm Kitchen – Nourishing skin food & anti-pollution skincare
Beans to Bar – Handmade artisan chocolates
Bettr Barista – Coffee academy
BOW – Multi-bags for athletes
Bushwick Biotech – Singapore’s first kombucha brewery
Cerana Honey – Southeast Asian honey
Edible Garden City – Urban farming
Freedom Cups – Menstrual cups
Freegan Barter Trade – Free, vegan barter trade
Kerygo – All natural olive oil products
Kitchen Garden Singapore – Urban farming
Lieutenant Kernal – Nutty bars
Marcom Recycling Point – Recycling point
Shermay’s Singapore Fine Food – Condiments by Chef Shermay Lee
Soicoco – Pure, fresh, raw coconut
The Hunter’s Kitchenette – The better nut butter company
Theo10 – 100% natural ingredients skincare
VeganBurg – Vegan food
Zerrin – Sustainable fashion & skincare

Income Eco Run 2018 will take place on 29 April 2018 at the F1 Pit Building with the first category (21.1km Half Marathon) flagging off at 5 am.

Registration for Income Eco Run is open till 29 March and starts from $20. For more information and to register for Income Eco Run 2018, please click here.

Minda Dentler – First Female Wheelchair Athlete To Complete Ironman

By

Mel

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March 8, 2018

An Ironman is a long-distance triathlon race consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, and a 26.22-mile run. It is raced without a break. It is tough, it is grueling and it is challenging. Ironman Kona has often been considered the toughest Ironman race due to the scorching hot conditions in Kona, Hawaii. This is a bucket-list race for many.

Completing the Ironman is an achievement in itself. And to do it despite the odds Minda Dentler was facing is really inspiring. Everyone’s story is different, but everyone’s story is just as inspiring. Here is Minda Dentler’s story.

Minda Dentler

Minda Dentler contracted Polio in India when she was a kid. She was left paralyzed waist down. Her birth mother was unable to care for her and left her in an orphanage. She was lucky that an American couple adopted her. Many surgeries, she was able to stand and walk with the help of knee braces and crutches.

She was different as a kid. People stared at her – her knee brace, her back brace, and her crutches. She loved sports but always participated on the sidelines, whether as a supporter or volunteer. It was a childhood dream of hers to one day be able to push herself to her limits, just like everybody else.

The Beginning

It was when she started working that she picked up hand cycling as a sport. Suddenly, her childhood dream of being able to complete the Ironman seemed possible. She took the plunge and took part in the Ironman 2012. For a wheelchair athlete like Minda, this would be a 2.4 mile open water swim, 112 hand cycle ride, and a 26.2 mile using a racing wheelchair. No female athlete has completed this because of the seemingly impossible cut off time. But there Minda was. She was going to try!

She was on midway on the bike course when she realized she was 2 hours behind the bike cut off time. She wasn’t going to make it. With great sadness, she had to give up. She felt completely utterly destroyed.

To Succeed, You Must Be Ready To Fail

Minda wasn’t going to just give up on her dreams just like that. Big dreams and goals can only be realized when you’re ready to fail. She knew she was going to face insurmountable odds but she wanted to try again.

Once more, she found herself at the start line of Ironman Kona. She took it one stroke at a time and managed a 1 hours 43 minutes swim. This time she had 8 hours 45 minutes to meet the bike cut off time. It was tough, she broke up the miles to make it easier mentally. She knew she was cutting it close but she knew she had to focus – focus on what you can control and that is your attitude and your effort. She pushed as though her life depended on it and she made it, by 3 minutes. She made the bike cut off time!

Overcome with emotion, Minda Dentler crossed that finish line with the time of 14 hours and 39 minutes. She first time a female wheelchair athlete in 35 years to complete the Ironman championship. Against all odds, she achieved her dream! What an inspiration!

What’s Next?

Polio still remains a very real threat in the developing and third world countries. There is limited access to medical knowledge, especially in developing and third world countries. This will be Minda’s next dream – to end polio, to give everyone a chance!

Source: Ted

Photo Credits: Kevin Charboneau

5 Superfood All Runners Should Know

By

Mel

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March 6, 2018

Superfoods are simply nutrition powerhouses – food jam-packed with vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants. They have incredible health benefits of which are good for your heart and overall health. Eat right, and you will run better. Combined with the right kind of food your body uses to fuel your run or recovery, you will find yourself able to run better, faster!

#1 Goji Berries

Photo Credits: Healthline

This is a familiar sight, especially in the Chinese cuisine. These berries have traditionally been used to treat eyesight problems, improve blood circulation and boost the immune system. After a hard run, our immune system drops due to the stress we place on our body. This is why boosting our immune system is important to ensure we don’t fall sick easily after a hard run. Also, lactic acid accumulates in our muscles that causes muscle soreness. An improved blood circulation will help rid our body of lactic acid.

#2 Black Garlic

Photo Credits: Greedy Gourmet

Black Garlic is made by a fermentation process when exposing it to heat and humidity. This superfood is said to have probiotic properties which help strengthen our digestive system and intestine environment. This in turns strengthens our immune system. A good immune system is very important to all runners. If you fall sick easily after every hard run, you’ll never be able to train consistently.

#3 Mangosteens

Photo Credits: Quora

Mangosteens is a fruit that contains a compound known as Xanthones. This particular compound helps your body combat cancer and inflammation. Muscle soreness after a run is actually post-workout tissue inflammation. By better managing post-workout tissue inflammation, you can recover faster and train better. A good way to help is to consume mangosteens. Mangosteens are such delicious fruit, everyone will love mangosteens.

#4 Lentils

Photo Credits: Medical News Today

These tiny beans help boost your metabolism. Lentils are rich in iron – an essential compound for your body to use calories as fuel. If your body is lacking in iron, your body will find it difficult to do so. As a runner, it is important that our body is efficient as using calories to fuel our runs. We need a constant supply of energy to keep us going at our marathon or ultra-marathon. Lentils help this!

#5 Red Grapefruit

Photo Credits: Fit Global

It is important to have red grapefruit and not white because of the additional health benefits you derive from the red version. The red version contains Panthothenic acid which helps convert fats, carbohydrates, and proteins into energy sources. This would become the source of energy to better fuel ourselves for our runs!

So, the next time you are out grocery shopping, make sure to stock up on these superfoods!

Al-Ahsa Runs – Saudi Arabia Hosts First Race For Women

By

Mel

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March 6, 2018

The very first run for women took place in Saudi Arabia on the 3rd March 2018. The run was of a 3-kilometer distance and welcomed 1,500 women from all across the kingdom. They were all dressed in traditional Islamic attire as they took to the streets of Arab.

The race is part of a modernization initiative launched by the Kingdom and seeks to boost running as a sport, especially among women. This event came after Riyadh hosted it’s very first international half marathon. However, it was criticized on social media for its very notable absence of women. In order to tackle this, the Kingdom decided to organize a run solely for women.

This initiative received a great response, having sold out the 2,000 slots in a matter of hours.

Photo Credits: Alarabiya

This is a great step forward for the conservative Kingdom. Among the initiatives rolled out include allowing women to drive moving forward. Women were previously not allowed to drive. Following the success of this event, sports authorities are set to organize another run for women in the holy city of Mecca on April 6th!

Source: Times Of Israel, Alarabiya

Cover Photo Credits: Alarabiya

4 One Pot Quinoa Recipes You Can Make For Dinner Under 30 Minutes

By

Mel

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March 5, 2018

The health benefits of Quinoa cannot be overstated. People hail it as a superfood in recognition of its high nutritional content – it has twice the protein content of barley and rice and a great source of calcium, magnesium, and manganese. It is a wheat-free alternative to starchy grains. Here are 4 easy-to-make one pot quinoa recipes you can make for dinner.

#1 Spinach & Mushroom Quinoa

Photo Credits: Closet Cooking

This skillet is such an easy-to-make heart meal. It is simple, low in carbs, jam-packed with protein, rich in fiber and also vegetarian. Spinach and mushroom is a match made in heaven. It’s 2 very simple ingredients that gives you so much flavour. Check out Julia’s simple recipe that only takes 30 minutes to whip up, and that includes prep time mind you.

#2 Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa

Photo Credits: Tablespoon

This mimics a good mac and cheese recipe, but the healthier, less guilt version of it. Everyone loves a good cheesy meal, and this pot of goodness gives you just that. Thanks to Cooking Classy, you can have a pot of cheesy chicken broccoli quinoa in just under 30 minutes. The combination gives you a very healthy meal – with chicken and quinoa being rich in protein and broccoli being rich in Vitamin K, folic acid, potassium and fiber. Who says healthy has to taste boring?

#3 Sweet Potato Quinoa With Kale & Sage

Photo Credits: With Food & Love

Not only have people been calling quinoa superfood, but kale as well. Kale has such a great nutritional profile, people are crowning in superfood number one. It is an antioxidant superstar, has impressive anti-cancer properties, and filled with amazing nutrients and vitamins. So, it’s no surprise that pairing quinoa with kale will give you a downright healthy meal. Together with the complex carbohydrates from sweet potatoes and yummy flavors from sage, this skillet would be a perfect post-workout meal. Check out this great recipe by With Food & Love.

#4 Mexican Quinoa

Photo Credits: Damn Delicious

Mexican flavors always give your palate such a punch of flavor. You get the hint of lime juice, the punch from the jalapeno, and the kick from all the spices combined. Simply throw everything into the pan, and let the quinoa soak up the great Mexican flavors. Check out damn delicious for a damn delicious recipe for Mexican Style Quinoa.

Sir Roger Bannister – First Man To Run A Sub-4 Mile Dies

By

Mel

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March 5, 2018

For some people, they have exceeded the level of legendary, and Sir Roger Bannister is one of them. Sir Roger Bannister became the very first athlete to run a sub 4-minute mile. He ran the mile with a timing of 3 minutes 59.4 seconds and did so again at the Empire Games in Vancouver. It was amazing – because more people have scaled Mount Everest than run a sub 4-minute mile.

Back then, the sub-4 minute mile was thought to be beyond the limits of human capabilities. However, Sir Roger proved us wrong by breaking the elusive sub 4-minute mark. He was a true inspiration.

“Sir Roger Bannister is a British sporting icon whose achievements were an inspiration to us all. He will be greatly missed.”

-Theresa May-

However, Sir Roger has always said his greatest achievement did not lie in sport. His greatest achievement is his medical work and his family. Sir Roger Bannister retired from competitive running to pursue a medical career. When he chaired the Sports Council from 1971 – 1974, he developed the first test for anabolic steroids.

Photo Credits: Star

Sir Rogers has been a true inspiration to everyone. He passed away peacefully in his home at the age of 88. Rest in peace!

Source: Independent UK

Cover Photo Credits: Bykama

Jake Robertson Breaks New Zealand 34-Year-Old Marathon Record

By

Mel

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March 4, 2018

If you haven’t heard of the New Zealand twins inspiring story, you’re missing out a lot in the running world. Everyone makes sacrifices for their dreams, but, how much are you willing to sacrifice? Jake and Zane Robertson moved to Kenya at the young age of 17 to be among the best and to try to be the best at running.

A Family Of Record Holders

His brother Zane holds the New Zealand Record for the 10,000 m (27:33:67) and the half marathon (59:47). And, now, Jake Robertson breaks Rod Dixon’s 34-year-old standing Marathon record in his marathon debut. He ran a sub-2:10:00 marathon in his very first marathon. Jake Robertson beat the previous record by 33 seconds, running a 2:08:26 in Lake Biwa. It was such an impressive run that earned him 3rd place.

Photo Credits: Stuff.Co.NZ

Jake Robertson is set to participate in the Commonwealth games this April, together with his brother Zane. Zane also has the option to run the marathon. Can Zane set yet another impressive marathon timing if he decided to debut during the Commonwealth Games?

Cover Photo Credits: NZ Herald

Source: NZ Herald

Results: Malaysia Women’s Marathon 2018

By

Mel

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March 4, 2018

The 2018 edition of Malaysia’s Women Marathon took place Sunday morning and kudos to the organizers, all finishers and volunteers. The women took to the streets of Shah Alam to challenge their limits and break personal bests.

Now it’s time to wear proudly your finisher t-shirt, show your shiny medal, record your thoughts and photos on your running app, JustRaceLah!

Watch this space as we will be bringing you updates as soon as they become available. You can keep track of all changes in real time and add your own comments via our mobile app, JustRaceLah!

Congratulations everybody!

Results:

Here are the top 3 results:-

Women Open Full Marathon Results:

Naum Jepkosgei 3:24:22
Yap Yee Ling 3:34:35
Ewe Bee Hong 3:46:46

Women Open Half Marathon Results:

Sanggeetha A/P Subramaniam 1:37:27
Chua Khit Yeng 1:38:43
Loh Chooi Fern 1:41:15

Women Open 10 km Results:

Regina Joshua 40:03
Ong Ee Ling 48:11
Chng Suat Ping 48:41

Check Your Results here.

3 Challenging Trail Runs In Malaysia You Should Join in 2018

By

Mel

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March 3, 2018

Did you know the fastest race course is the one with the most spectators? There’s just something about having someone cheer you on that gives you that little boost of adrenaline and energy. It gives you the additional push and motivation to run a little faster or to keep going when you’re just about to give up.

This is why these new Ultra-Trails in Malaysia should be on your list of to-do races. The loop format just means it is going to be a spectator-friendly course. It’s going to be tough and mentally challenging, but so much fun when you cross the finish line.

#1 Bukit Kiara Ultra Challenge, August

The very first edition of the Bukit Kiara Challenge is set for 5th August 2018. You run a 5.5 km loop as many times as you can in the given 12 hours. Do not underestimate this 5.5 km loop. One loop gives you an elevation gain of 280 meters. Now, go again and again for 12 hours! Kiara, being the green lung of KL – is the playground and backyard of many trail runners based in KL. The event will be a highly-anticipated one, because, everyone loves to run in home ground! We even heard, someone’s asking if challenging the 100km distance in the 12-hour window is possible.

#2 Malaysia Ultra Trail Festival, November

Lose your minds and discover your soul with the Malaysia Ultra Trail Festival. Challenge the mighty Maxwell Hill in Taiping located 1,036m above sea level. There will be 3 categories to opt from – 70 km, 30 km and 15 km. The interesting challenge lies in the 70 km distance. The 70 km distance brings you up Maxwell hill through 6 different trails! It’s going to drive you insane! But that’s what ultrarunners love right? – a challenge that drives everyone crazy! Save your dates – 29th November 2018!

#3 BDB Climb + Run Challenge, November

The Climb and Run Challenge is such a cool concept. You ascend 4,287 steps all the way up Gunung Raya that stand 887m above sea level. You then run down 16 km via the roads. What a great way to try and PB that 10 km of yours – by running downhill all the way! I’m not even sure which part is cooler – running up 4,287 steps, or running 16 km downhill! For reference purposes, KL Towerthon has only 2,058 steps. This is more than double!

Looking For More Races To Join? Check Out Our Malaysian Race Calendar!

Malaysia Women Marathon 2018: Flag-off Times, Road Closures and Last Minute Information

By

Mel

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March 2, 2018

It’s happening this weekend! The Malaysia Women Marathon is back to celebrate women empowerment. As we are psyched for the flag-off, here are some important last minute information for all runners.

Flag-off times

Route & Hydration Information

Based on the advice of the Selangor Amateur Athletic Association (SAAA), there is slight amendment to the route. The route is a much more controlled environment now and it will be run in a 10.5km loop. This means that the 21 km will be running 2 loops and the 42 km will be running 4 loops.

IMPORTANT SAFETY POINTS:

Safety cones will be placed in the middle of the road at every 2 meters apart from the start of the route till the end. This is to separate the runners (right lane) and the cars from the residential area (left lane).
Do run inside the safety cones section on the right.
Please take your ribbons for each loop at the 10.6km checkpoint.
The main roads in the city commercial area will be closed but by 8 am, slowly the left lane will be opened up for the cars.P
Please listen to the marshals and the supervisors’ instruction should they require you to run within the right lane only. This is crucial especially after 8:00 am onwards.

Log your time at JustRaceLah! – The Free App for Runners

Keep track of your results and progress by adding any of the 1000+ races of our database to your own portfolio. Keep your running memories organised and see your timings improving!

Download for free of iOS and Android via: www.justracelah.com

Cut Off Times

• 42K : 6 Hours 30 Minutes
• 21K : 3 Hours 45 Minutes
• 10K : 2 Hours

Race Kit Collection:

We hope you have a great race experience! Don’t forget to tag your photos with #justrunlah on Instagram!

See you at the finish line!

Win A Free Slot To Income Eco Run 2018

By

Mel

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March 2, 2018

Income Eco Run 2018 is calling for all runners to play their part towards a sustainable environment and run towards Zero Waste! Following its sell-out success in 2017, the income Eco run returns again on the 29th April 2018 at the F1 Pit Building.

Stand a Chance to Win A Free Entry To Income Eco Run 2018

5 lucky winners will stand a chance to win a complimentary slot to the Income Eco Run 2018. Just fill in the form below to take part in the contest.

The contest has ended and the winners contacted privately. Thanks!

First Ever Geo-based Virtual Challenges is Here in Singapore: JustMove Asia!

By

Team JustRunLah!

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March 1, 2018

Always wanted to go for a run but you’re unsure where to do so? Or have you run out of route ideas? Fret not, join us in our inaugural Geo-based virtual running event series in Singapore!

So, What do you have to do?

1. RUN – Any day. Any time. 10 different locations around Singapore. Running, walking or even strolling at your own pace! You only have to cover the minimum distance and run pass the predetermined check-points! But, do not forget to activate your GPS-enabled app!

2. Upload – Take a screenshot of the route taken and upload it to JustMove Asia website.

3. Earn – Claim your medals and enter the online leaderboard at JustMove Asia website.

Click here to find out more and register today!

10 Locations Around Singapore:

Bukit Batok
Rail Corridor
Fort Canning
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Jurong Lake
Southern Ridges
Labrador Park
Tampines Eco Green
MacRitchie Reservoir
Upper Seletar Reservoir

JustMove Asia is the first series of Geo-based virtual events that brings runners and active individuals to unique locations to complete challenges and earn digital and physical entitlements. It also aims to engage individuals on a yearlong basis and motivate them to be active outdoors.

More information at: www.justmove.asia

Point of Interests

Detour to check out these nearby hidden gems of Singapore:

1. Hindhede Quarry

Hindhede Quarry is the highlight of any visit to the Hindhede Nature Park near Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. It is the place for picnickers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. At Hindhede Quarry, you can admire an 80-years-old granite mining factory which has ceased its operation in the 1980s. Also, try to spot the quarry’s inhabitants which include Terrapins, fishes and brightly-colored birds who will occasionally fly over the quarry.

2. Bukit Chandu War Memorial
Only being a stone’s throw away from the battle of Pasir Panjang site, the Bukit Chandu War memorial is a place that is rich in history. At this heritage center, you can uncover Singapore’s most fascinating tales of heroism, historical artifacts, and interactive exhibits during the 1^st Malay Regiment and Singapore’s war experience.

3. Former Ford Factory

Presented by the National Archives of Singapore, Former Ford Factory is a permanent World War II exhibition. The exhibition presents the events and memories surrounding the British surrender, the Japanese occupation of Singapore and the legacies of the war. Also, it highlights the diverse experiences of Singaporeans during this crucial time in our history.

4. Dempsey Hill
Known as one of Singapore’s lesser-known lifestyle destination featuring some of the newest concepts in an old world setting that anyone can enjoy. After being redeveloped in 2007, it is now a dining, entertainment and shopping destination which include shops such as COMO Dempsey, Loewen By Dempsey Hill and Rouge French Designs.

Click here to register now!

4 Tips To Help You Recover From Your Marathon Faster

By

Mel

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March 1, 2018

Recovery is a very important aspect, yet often neglected component of training. This is particularly so after a long distance race like the marathon. The recovery is just as important as the training. The consequences of not having proper recovery can be very severe. You may experience a bout of overtraining or you may even sustain an unwanted injury due to improper recovery.

So, what actually happens to your body? After the marathon distance, your energy stores are depleted, your body is dehydrated and your muscles experience microscopic tears. On average, runners lose about 2 kg after the marathon distance. This is the amount of fluid loss your body experiences.

Here are 4 great tips to help you recover from your marathon faster!

#1 Change Out Of Your Race Gear, Pronto!

If you pay attention, elite athletes are very efficient at changing out of their race gear into long tracksuits. After a run, your sweat pores remain open. Staying in your wet damp clothes will cause your body to cool down too quickly. This combined with the fact that your immune system is lowered due to the stress you put your body through can cause you to catch a cold or fall ill.

#2 Drink Up

Your body can lose approximately 2 – 3 kg of fluids – that is a lot! Your body is in a dehydrated state post marathon. This is why you should drink up at the finishing line. Grab some isotonic drinks or water and replenish your fluids. Isotonic drinks are good because it also helps replace the salt and minerals lost through the sweating process.

#3 Eat, Eat, Eat

Yes, you definitely deserve that cake after conquering the marathon distance, no doubt! However, it’s also important not to overdo the eating cake and crisp and drinking. And also, wait a couple of hours before indulging. This is because high-fat food slows down the digestion of post-race carbs, hence impeding recovery. So, remember to eat post-race carbs to replenish your glycogen stores and protein-rich food to help repair your muscles that have worked so hard.

#4 Stretch & Foam Roll

By recover, we don’t mean just sit down and watch tv for the entire week but do short recovery jogs, stretch, and foam roll. Recovery jogs at a slow pace helps promote blood circulation and hence helps flush out the lactic acid accumulated in your muscles. This will help reduce muscle soreness. Stretching and foam rolling will help ease tight spots!

Evelyn Ang Loo Has Triumphantly Completed Her Toughest & Final Ultra

By

Mel

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March 1, 2018

Evelyn Ang Loo has triumphantly completed her toughest ultra. She has crossed the finishing line with hands held high and will continue her next stage in heaven. It is with deep sadness and regrets that Evelyn Ang Loo has passed away this morning at 1:13 am.

Evie was such a wonderful person and a remarkable athlete. If you knew her, you would know that she dedicated all her time to helping newbies and promoting running in our community. If you didn’t know her and have seen her around, you would know that she always had a cheerful smile planted on her face. Today has been a great loss for the Malaysia running community.

Photo Credits: Evelyn’s Facebook

We would like to offer our condolences to Evelyn’s family and friends.

Source: TPRC & Jom Kita Lari

Cover Photo Credits: TPRC

Race Review: 2017 Rayong Marathon (by healthobeing)

By

healthobeing

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February 28, 2018

My last marathon of the year, took me sometime to pen it down. In 2017, I did quite a bit of trail instead of the usual road races, I guess I was getting tired of rushing for time. For trail races, there are more time to relax and enjoy the scenery and besides I know I can never be faster in the forest.

RAYONG MARATHON

Set in the idyllic beach of Rayong, which is in the Southern part of Bangkok about a good 3 hours drive away. Main tourist attractions are Mae Ramphueng Beach, Khao Laem Ya, and Samet Archipelago where the famous Ko Samet is. Less rowdy and not so foreigner infested Rayong is good for a quiet peaceful get away minus the boisterous beach full moon parties, which Thailand is quite famous for.

This race has 5 categories, the longest is full marathon 42.195km, however, after the race, I realise that the total distance clocked was about 41.8km. It might be because of the GPS or just the winding road. I took part in Full Marathon which starts at 3:30am. This makes it very much a night marathon. Most of the participants are locals and it is very much a local community kind of race. Starting off from the Rayong Aquarium itself, the area is very scenic and relaxing. This is also the race expo, race pack collection and ending point for all the categories.

Official Website: http://rayongmarathon.com/

The race can be signed up at the official website itself with a transfer of funds to their Thai Bank, this can cost a lot more because of the transferring fees. Full marathon runners will be entitled to a race tee, the finisher medal and tee, race water point support throughout the race, the best of all is the buffet spread of local delights for your breakfast when you finish the race. This is also the main draw for me for Thailand races.

ACCOMMODATION

There are many nice beach inns and houses along the beach, and you can rent a scooter to get to the race start point at an affordable price. I stayed at the Yellow House, this is a simple inn with good hot water shower along the beach itself. There are many seafood stalls along the beach for a good decent dinner, you can take a short ride to Baan Phe for night market and enjoy the night market food there.

RACE COURSE

The race course is actually very ideal for a PB, its just two U turns for the FM, starting and ending the same place which is the Rayong Aquarium. The whole route is flat, breezy and when daylight comes it its actually scenic as you can see the beach of Rayong and also brings you through the Ban Phe town. The water points are very substantial, all giving out ice cold water, isotonic drinks and also some with banana and watermelon.

Towards the 30km mark, staff with muscle rub and spray are also there to ease you muscle cramp and pain.

LOGISTICS

This road race is very enjoyable, it has a good starting and ending point, full of amenities, there is always food to serve you at the ending point. The baggage drop is well organised and you can collect your bag pretty fast, for the full marathoners, there is a special packet of breakfast packed for you: with two rice dumplings, with a cupcake. There is also a packet drink. This is good because usually after a marathon, I do not have much appetite to eat a lot. These snacks will come in handy for a later meal.

Generally this race was enjoyable and a good getaway with pit stop at Bangkok to have good massages and Thai delicacies. You do not have to spend much and also you will get to enjoy the quiet and tranquility of the Rayong beach.

Highlights Of Tokyo Marathon 2018

By

Mel

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February 27, 2018

With World Marathon Majors, there will always be big moments, new personal bests, new national records and attempts at the World Record. Here are the 4 big highlights of the Tokyo Marathon 2018!

#1 Kipsang Drops Out Of Tokyo Marathon

Wilson Kipsang is one of the top favorites to win the Tokyo Marathon, perhaps attempt to challenge the World Record while at it. However, stomach problems forced Kipsang to drop out of the race 15 kilometers in. He was suffering from stomach problems 2 days prior the race and just did not have enough energy to push on.

#2 Yuta Shitara Breaks The Japan Record

Photo Credits: Japan Times

Yuta Shitara of Japan was the winner of the day. He broke the 16-year-old Japan National Record running a time of 2:06:11. Although he didn’t come in champion, but, he definitely hit jackpot, being the financial winner of the day. He was offered 100 million Japanese Yen for breaking the Japan National Record. He reeled in Kipketer at the 40 km mark to move into 3rd place and 800m later caught up to Kipruto to move into 2nd place. Big Congratulations to Yuta Shitara.

#3 Amy Cragg Runs An Incredible Personal Best

Photo Credits: Team Hot Shot

Amy Cragg came in 3rd place at the Tokyo Marathon. She becomes the 5th American Women to run a sub 2:22:00 marathon. She took a huge chunk of her previous timing of 2:27:03. She smashed it running a 2:21:21. She took off almost 6 minutes off her personal best. Can we say wow? She said it was a painful finish, but worth it!

Read More: The Kenyan Twins from New Zealand

#4 Dickson Chumba Completes 5th Consecutive Podium Finish

Dickson Chumba worked as a gardener before becoming a professional runner back in 2008. With 5 kilometers to go, he made his move. He sprinted off and dropped off his compatriots to come in Champion with a time of 2:05:30. This becomes his 5th consecutive podium finish and 2nd Tokyo Marathon Champion title. He previously won in 2014.

Cover Photo Credits: My BEST Runs