The Annual Road Race is back. The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2018 (SCSM 2018) provides both the participants and the running community a pleasant race that is jam-packed with amusement. This year, it was revealed that there will be exciting new routes for all categories in a new two-day race format on 8th and 9th December 2018.
Mr Lim Teck Yin, CEO of Sports Singapore recognised that the SCSM has grown to become an integral part of the nation’s sporting calendar, believing that runners will look forward to ending the year with a bang. This was what he had to say:
The SCSM is not just a running spectacle but also an event for people to come together to enjoy their active lifestyle and celebrate the festive season in a fun and healthy way. When an event brings thousands together every year, it shows what it means to people. Therefore, we always challenge ourselves to raise the level of organization for our runners and the community-at-large. SCSM continues to strive to create memorable and happy moments for everyone. I appreciate the unstinting efforts by the IRONMAN Asia, partner agencies, and other stakeholders, in designing and supporting another wonderful SCSM that all of us can be proud of.
There are currently at least 40,000 participants registered and still counting. Many organisers are still committed to creating an event which showcases the best of Singapore to the world. Mr Mr Geoff Meyer, Managing Director of IRONMAN Asia had a few words to say:
All successful sporting events put their participants first, while delivering on world-class standards. All great events share yet another common feature – everyone who takes part actually has fun! This unique proposition has allowed us to sell out our marathon distance first while continuing to engage new runners, families and children. SCSM is the leading race in the region, and we’re confident that our new route, enhanced entertainment and runners’ perks will edge us closer to our goal of joining the elite group of World Marathon Majors.
New Format; New Route; New Experience
Events held on the 8th December 2018:
- Kids Dash
- National Step Challenge (5KM and 10KM)
Events held on the 9th December 2018:
- Half Marathon
- Full Marathon
For the first time in the event’s history, runners participating in all four competitive categories will begin from the same start point at the Pit Building and will end at The Float at Marina Bay. The flag-off will be beneath the iconic Singapore Flyer.
With the wider starting space, race participants will have the opportunity to set their own pace from the very beginning. They will get to delight in a more comfortable race experience with full road closures spanning 95% of the route. All the routes have been designed after taking into account both the runners and the surrounding communities’ input.
Participants of the National Steps Challenge for both 5KM and 10KM categories are flagging off together, running together towards the Kallang Basin. For those in the 5KM race, participants will loop back to run past the Esplanade, while 10KM participants proceed towards the National Stadium. Runners from both categories will end their race at The Float at Marina Bay.
Flagging off at Universal Studios Singapore (USS) in Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore’s biggest children’s race allows parents to run and have fun with their young ones with an all-new route. Each parent-and-child duo are able to enjoy breathtaking views as they run past seven thrilling zones, from the fairytale wonderland of Far Far Away featuring Shrek and Princess Fiona’s castle to the lush jungles of Lost World where dinosaurs roam. For those that are interested in the rides at USS after the run can select a special bundle which includes a Kids Dash run package, theme park admission as well as dining and shopping vouchers.
Participants of both the Half and Full Marathon will race past the Padang where the National Gallery Singapore is located, downtown in the direction of the Central Business District and round back towards the Marina Bay Golf course. Towards the end, runners will enjoy the unique view of the city as they race past the Singapore Flyer towards the finish line amidst the spectacular Marina Bay cityscape. There are a total of 15 hydration and cooling zones throughout the Half Marathon and Marathon routes, which will feature new splash and ice chips stations, along with mist tunnels.
This year’s enhanced routes aims to provide a unforgettable experience for the participants while ensuring minimal inconvenience to the wider public. Adequate signs and notices will be put up in advance to inform the public of impending road closures so that they can make plans to use alternative travel routes. In case of emergencies, hospitals routes shall remain accessible throughout the duration of the event.
Mr Meyer added:
A lot of planning and effort have gone into making SCSM 2018 a truly exhilarating experience for everyone. We have worked closely with the relevant authorities to reach out to runners and stakeholders, and will continue to do so as the success of SCSM relies on strong partnerships and support from communities to lead an active lifestyle together.
Will you be participating in the upcoming marathon? What are you looking forward to in this year’s SCSM 2018 event?
