The fifth 2XU Compression Run saw some 20,000 participants gathered bright and early at 4:30 a.m. on Sunday, 2 August 2015. The run, which was postponed from March to August in view of the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew’s passing, saw participants in high spirits as they pushed themselves to perform their personal bests.
The 2XU Compression Run is an excellent platform for runners to test their mettle and break their own personal bests. As one of the more competitive runs available in Singapore, it’s exciting to see 20,000 people coming together for the sole purpose of competing and improving their own timings.
—Daniel Ng, Director of Pink Apple, the event organisers of the 2XU Compression Run
Not For The Faint-Hearted
As per 2XU’s slogan, “Human Performance Multiplied”, the 2XU Compression Run is designed to push the physical limits and maximise the potential of urban warriors. Flagging off from Marina East Drive, hyped runners coursed through the scenic Gardens by the Bay East and East Coast Park.
This year’s 21.1 km Men’s Open Category winner is Melvin Wong, who finished in 1:15:58, while Anna Hellvich came out tops in the 21.1 km Women’s Open Category in 1:40:18.
It was not an expected win at all as I took part just to keep my fitness on track, and to prepare for the next running season.
—Melvin Wong, 31-year-old Sales Assistant and 2015 21.1 km Men’s Open Category winner
With a timing of 35:18 and 42:00 respectively, Stuart Haynes and Heidi Makinen both earned their boasting rights as the local male and female victors in the 10 km Category.
In the 5 km Men’s Open Category, Dennis Finn clocked a time of 17:57, while Kimberly Lee came in first at 24:04 in the 5 km Women’s Open Category.
CEO of Sport Singapore, Mr. Lim Teck Yin and Mr. Robert Lu, Managing Director of Key Power International graced the event and had the honours of flagging off the run.
A Meaningful Cause and Fun Day For All
In a first collaboration, the 2XU Compression Run partnered SportCares Foundation to help underprivileged teenagers in Singapore through sport. A percentage of the event’s proceeds go to SportCares’ many community initiatives.
Entertaining the crowds at the race village were ShiLi & Adi, one of the most popular duos in Singapore’s live music scene. The day won’t be complete without some way to commemorate it, so participants gleefully snapped away at the race village’s Instagram photo booth and took home fond memories in 2XU instaprint cards.
Runners, friends and family had fun scaling the inflatable Rock Wall while the ever-popular Bubble Bump saw teams bumping it out against each other. With feel-good post-run endorphins in the air and several fun-filled activities to take part in, the day ended in high spirits.
What Do You Think?
So what say you? Did you enjoy your time at the 5th 2XU Compression Run, or are you looking forward to the next one? Why or why not? Dish out your comments below!
