From Passion to Performance: Vanessa Sam’s Journey with the ASICS A-Racer Programme
- John Yeong
- Jul 15
- 3 min read
Meet the Rising Star Redefining Resilience and Performance in the Singapore Running Community
As we celebrate the culmination of Global Running Month, we turn our spotlight toward the future of the Singapore running scene. Among the standout talents joining the prestigious
ASICS A-Racer programme this year is Vanessa Sam—a runner whose dedication and humble approach to the sport embodies the spirit of the modern athlete.
As part of the ASICS A-Team, Vanessa represents a new generation of runners who view the sport not just as a pursuit of personal bests, but as a transformative journey of self-discovery.
Finding Purpose in the Miles
For many, the transition from casual runner to competitive athlete is defined by a singular race. For Vanessa, the journey is more nuanced, grounded in the belief that running offers a path to personal growth that transcends the clock.
"I think I am still looking for that catalyst, for that specific moment that will change my perspective on who I am as a person," Vanessa shares. "As of now, I still consider myself as 'someone who runs' more so than 'an athlete chasing milliseconds.' In the end, it is about the human journey for me—to try to achieve something that is more than myself."
The Impact of the ASICS A-Racer Programme
By joining the ASICS A-Racer programme, Vanessa is positioning herself to influence the next wave of local runners. Her goal is simple yet profound: to demonstrate the holistic benefits of a consistent running practice.
"I hope to inspire people to start running as well," she says. "I believe that running can alter one’s life for the better, and that with running, one can learn to be stronger both physically and mentally."
The support from ASICS has already begun to shift her trajectory. "I have become more confident in myself as a runner, knowing that I am supported by ASICS," Vanessa adds. "ASICS has provided me with more opportunities to race, which I hope will allow me to become a better runner."
Navigating Challenges with Resilience
Every athlete faces the crucible of setbacks. For Vanessa, the challenge came in the form of a physical hurdle: a labrum tear in her left hip. The experience tested her resolve but ultimately sharpened her mental fortitude.
"It made both walking and running extremely painful, and was a huge setback in my training," she recalls. "However, through physiotherapy and other medical treatments, I have found methods to subvert the pain and continue running. I feel that staying optimistic and having a good support system to be vital in my recovery and in allowing me to become stronger mentally."
Daily Discipline and the ASICS Rotation
For Vanessa, peak performance is balanced with personal development. Currently in a gap year, she structures her days to integrate rigorous training with academic self-improvement. Her routine includes morning classes, recovery-focused afternoons, and evening sessions that are either coached training or dedicated solo runs.
When it comes to her gear, consistency is key. Like many who log high mileage, she relies on the ASICS NOVABLAST™ series as her go-to daily workhorse.
"Definitely the ASICS NOVABLAST™. I have gone through more NOVABLAST™s than any other shoe throughout my years of running," she notes. When asked about the highly anticipated NOVABLAST™ 6, Vanessa remains optimistic: "The NOVABLAST™ series has always brought me joy, and as such I hope that the 6 will make my runs even more enjoyable and fun."
Beyond the technology, there is a psychological element to her kit. "My favourite color is black. I love the black shirts ASICS has provided for me. In fact, since I have signed with ASICS, most of my workouts have been done in the A-Racer black shirt."
As Vanessa Sam continues her journey with the ASICS A-Racers, she stands as a beacon for the Singapore running community—proving that with the right support, a resilient mindset, and a passion for the process, any runner can go the distance.
Join the conversation online by following @asicssg and @sportplus.sg, or use the hashtags #ASICSSG #SoundMindSoundBody #GlobalRunningDay and #TheATeam to share your own running journey.
About ASICS x SportPlus.sg "The A-Team Performance Diaries" Series
This editorial feature is part of a month-long collaborative campaign between ASICS and Sport Plus Media celebrating Global Running Day and Global Running Month.
Throughout the month, this exclusive series shines a spotlight on the journey of elite Singaporean athletes and the next generation of rising stars, the ASICS A-Racers. Through this series, we hope to inspire the local community to find their own joy in movement, elevate the standards of local distance running, and foster a sustainable culture of sportsmanship and athletic longevity. #ASICSSG #SoundMindSoundBody #TheATeam #GlobalRunningMonth
Comments