A Joyful Stride Into Community: AirAsia Kallang Run Debuts at Singapore Sports Hub This September
- John Yeong
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
How Nicole Ang's personal running journey reflects the spirit of a new race designed for everyone – from first-timers to future marathoners
This is a feature article written by SportPlus.sg for Kallang Alive Sports Management. For more sports events, programmes and human stories of Singapore Sports Hub, visit the Singapore Sports Hub's 'Here to Play' website.
This September, the Singapore Sports Hub will play host to the inaugural AirAsia Kallang Run, a community-focused running event set against the city’s most iconic sporting backdrop.
More than just a race, the AirAsia Kallang Run promises an inclusive experience that celebrates community, growth, and the simple joy of movement. And few embody that spirit more authentically than Nicole Ang, a passionate new runner whose journey is inspiring a new generation to lace up.
New Runner with a Clear Purpose
While Nicole’s running journey began three years ago, and she only began running a little more seriously this year, her growth has been rapid — and heartfelt. Inspired by a desire to explore new challenges and connect with like-minded people, she joined Run.JPG, a social running crew known for its welcoming, creative energy.
“I started running during the pandemic because I needed structure and movement,” Nicole recalls. “Run.JPG made it fun and gave it meaning.”
This sense of belonging would later carry her all the way to the finish line of her first full marathon in Gold Coast, Australia, on 6 July 2024 — a hugely emotional experience she describes as both humbling and exhilarating.
“Crossing that finish line, I remember tearing up. Not because of the time or pace, but because I never thought I could do it.”
Redefining What It Means to Be a Runner
Nicole’s perspective on running has evolved with every kilometre.
“At first, I thought being a ‘real runner’ meant you needed to be fast. Now, I know it’s about showing up — for yourself and for others.”
That belief has now propelled her into a mentorship role. Fuelled by her Gold Coast experience this year, Nicole is launching a women’s training crew under Run.JPG to prepare for the Great Eastern Women’s Run this year.
Her goal? To help more women embrace running, not as competition, but as a form of empowerment and self-discovery.
“I want to build a space where women feel safe to start — to walk, jog, run, chat, laugh. It’s about joyful pacing.”
“In addition to being part of the Run.JPG community, I’m also a member of Happy Pace Club — a women-only crew that celebrates women from all walks of life. Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where beginners, regardless of pace or experience, can enjoy running without pressure or intimidation.”
A New Race at a Familiar Sporting Heartbeat: The AirAsia Kallang Run
Nicole’s journey comes full circle with the upcoming AirAsia Kallang Run, happening on 27 September 2025 at the Singapore Sports Hub — a place she holds close to her heart.
“I’ve done so many loops around the Kallang Basin, the 100PLUS Promenade, and even laps on the National Stadium track. This place has literally shaped my running journey.”
She believes the AirAsia Kallang Run is the perfect event for new runners looking to start — or restart — their relationship with running.
“You don’t need to be fast. You just need to show up. And at Sports Hub, the energy carries you. Whether it’s your first running event or you’re training for your next big race, this event makes it feel accessible.”
A Hub for More Than Just for Running
Nicole also reminds us that the Singapore Sports Hub is much more than just a place to sweat.
“Some of my favourite memories here aren’t even runs,” she laughs. “I remember queueing for tickets for my favourite concerts, grabbing great food with friends... It’s a lifestyle space — not just a sports venue.”
Overcoming Fears with Friends
When asked what advice she’d give to someone hesitating to join their first group run, Nicole reflected on her own journey, recalling her initial apprehension at joining group runs three years ago:
“When I first joined a running group, I had not exercised for years and I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to keep up with the faster runners in the group, but since then when I look back on my journey, I can only see how far I’ve come, and the friendships I’ve made. There are no regrets.”
“Just show up. No one is judging you. Everyone remembers their first run — and chances are, someone will run your pace.”
As the AirAsia Kallang Run approaches, Nicole hopes to see more faces — new, returning, curious — discover the same joy she’s found in the rhythm of her strides and the warmth of a running community that feels like home.
Looking to join Nicole at the inaugural AirAsia Kallang Run?
📍 Where: Singapore Sports Hub
📅 When: Sun, 27 September 2025
🎽 Who’s it for: Everyone — new runners, casual joggers, walking crews, and beyond
For more updates on the race, follow @SgSportsHub
New to running? Let your first step be joyful — and let it start at Singapore Sports Hub. #mysgsportshub #airasiakallangrun