Inside the AIA Dream Team: How Four Strangers Became One Force for AIA HYROX Singapore 2026
- SportPlus Feature
- 7 hours ago
- 4 min read
AIA's HYROX Dream Team was formed across departments within AIA Singapore, as the team looks to challenge for a podium spot when they take on the Corporate Relay Challenge next weekend.
As the countdown begins for AIA HYROX Singapore 2026, one team is drawing attention—not just for podium potential, but for what they represent.
The AIA Dream Team, formed across departments within AIA Singapore, will take on the Corporate Relay Challenge next weekend. But beyond the race itself, their story is about discipline, mental resilience, and the power of community in high-performance sport.
From Colleagues to Competitors
The idea for the AIA Dream Team didn’t come from a boardroom strategy session—it started with a simple observation.
“We saw colleagues signing up in silos,” says Allison Chew, Head of PR, Brand and Marketing at AIA Singapore. “It made me wonder—could we bring people together across the organisation and build something bigger through sport?”
That vision led to the creation of a cross-functional team made up of individuals who had never worked—or trained—together before. The goal wasn’t just performance, but connection.
“What excited me most was bringing together people with completely different strengths,” Allison explains. “From endurance to functional fitness, it became a masterclass in collaboration.” The HYROX Edge: Endurance Meets Strength
Unlike traditional endurance races, HYROX is known for its demanding format—combining running with functional workout stations. It’s this hybrid challenge that keeps athletes coming back.
For Daniel Fang, a high-net-worth wealth manager at AIA Singapore, this year marks his sixth HYROX race.
“I started during COVID when travel stopped,” he shares. “Running and HIIT became part of my routine, and eventually, HYROX became a natural progression.”
What keeps him hooked?
“The running component plays to my strengths as a marathoner, but it’s the community that really stands out. You start seeing familiar faces—it becomes more than just a race.”
Over time, Daniel’s approach has evolved from trial-and-error to precision.
“Now it’s about targeted training. I focus on what works best for me rather than just doing more.”
Training Twice Daily—While Managing a Career
Balancing elite-level training with a demanding career is no small feat. Yet Daniel trains up to twice a day.
“A lot of people say they don’t have time to exercise,” he says. “But it really comes down to prioritisation and planning.”
His approach is practical and sustainable—short, high-intensity sessions during the week and longer workouts on weekends.
“Even 45-minute functional training sessions can make a huge difference. The key is consistency—and recovery.”
This discipline has also transformed his work performance.
“I used to be sceptical, but training is one of the best stress relievers. It’s improved my focus and productivity.”
Mental Resilience: The Ultimate Advantage
For Lucas Neo, Executive Director and Ironman athlete, physical fitness is only half the equation.
“The biggest challenge isn’t physical—it’s mental,” he says.
With years of endurance racing under his belt, Lucas brings a critical edge to the team: mental resilience.
“HYROX is more intense than Ironman in many ways. It demands both strength and endurance—it’s easy to finish, but hard to excel.”
During races, his strategy is simple but powerful:
“I focus on the present moment—my breathing, my steps. Not the distance left.”
And when things get tough?
“Glory is forever, pain is temporary.”
Building Chemistry Under Pressure
Despite coming from different parts of the organisation, the team quickly found its rhythm.
“At first, it was nerve-racking,” Daniel admits. “Everyone was performing at such a high level.”
But once training began, their complementary strengths became clear. Lucas, acting as team leader, strategically assigned roles to maximise performance—anchoring the running segments himself.
“We didn’t know each other before,” Lucas says, “but bonding over a shared goal made the process incredibly rewarding.”
Accountability plays a key role too.
“We have a group chat where we share weekly training updates,” Daniel adds. “It keeps everyone motivated.”
More Than a Race: A Culture of Wellbeing
At its core, the AIA Dream Team represents something bigger than competition.
“At AIA, ‘Healthier, Longer, Better Lives’ isn’t just for our customers—it’s our internal culture,” Allison explains.
The team embodies this philosophy—showing how fitness can unite individuals, improve wellbeing, and strengthen workplace relationships.
“Fitness is rarely a solo journey,” she says. “Community is what keeps you going—especially when the sled push gets heavy.”
Eyes on the Finish Line
While the team is undeniably competitive, their mission goes beyond the podium.
“Of course we want to win,” Lucas says. “But more importantly, we want to challenge ourselves and bring out the best in each other.”
For Daniel, the motivation is equally clear:
“It’s about showing up, putting in the effort, and pushing your limits.”
And for Allison, this is just the beginning.
“I hope the Dream Team inspires more people to step out of their circles, find new teammates, and realise we’re stronger together.”
As race day approaches, one thing is certain—the AIA Dream Team isn’t just competing in HYROX Singapore.
They’re redefining what it means to train, work, and win as one. #AIAHYROXSG #HYROXWorld