Singapore Distance Runner Rachel See’s Last-Minute Gamble Pays Off With Stunning Half-Marathon Win in Hong Kong

Rachel See's win underlined the depth of Singapore’s endurance scene and reinforced her reputation as one of the nation’s most consistent long-distance performers.

Rachel See wins the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon half-marathon with a time of 1:20:56. PHOTO: DICKSON LEE

HONG KONG, 19 January 2026 - Singapore distance running received a timely boost after Rachel See delivered a surprise victory in the women’s half-marathon at the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon, overcoming tough conditions and a strong field to claim gold.

A last-minute decision that led to gold

Remarkably, Rachel’s triumph was never part of the plan. The 43-year-old civil servant and mother of two revealed that she only decided to enter the half-marathon at the last moment. She was originally in Hong Kong simply to support her husband, Poon Zi Li, who was racing the full marathon.

That relaxed mindset proved decisive. Racing without pressure, Rachel powered through gusty headwinds to take the title in a time of 1:20:56, edging out Hong Kong’s Crystal Vut Tsz-ying (1:21:02) and Wan Taz-wai (1:22:10).

“Today’s race was actually quite challenging because the wind was very strong,” Rachel said after the finish. “Even though the weather was cool, it felt tough being constantly pushed by the wind. But I was very relaxed, and I think that helped.”

Over 74,000 runners took part in the 2026 Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon. PHOTO: KARMA LO

Experience shines through in difficult conditions

With over 74,000 runners taking to the streets on Hong Kong’s biggest race day of the year, conditions were far from ideal for fast times. Cold, windy weather drew criticism from elite athletes across categories, but Rachel’s experience and calm execution stood out.

Her win underlined the depth of Singapore’s endurance scene and reinforced her reputation as one of the nation’s most consistent long-distance performers, capable of excelling even when the odds—or the weather—are stacked against her.

Hong Kong Movie Star Chow Yun-fat took part in the 10km category with friends. PHOTO: EUGENE LEE

A champion mom and two very different daughters

Speaking with Chinese media after her victory, Rachel also reflected on how her running career has influenced her two daughters, aged 16 and 12—in very different ways.

Her elder daughter has clearly followed in her footsteps, showing strong ability, joining races, and competing confidently. The younger daughter, however, has little interest in running. Rachel believes this may be due to the pressure of having a mother who is a national champion.

Still, one thing remains constant. “Both of them are proud when I race,” Rachel shared. “When I’m running—especially in the full marathon—I always think about my daughters and my family. They give me strength.”

Race participants all smiles before the race. PHOTO: KARMA LO

More than just a win

Rachel’s unexpected victory was part of a memorable marathon weekend that also saw international stars, local heroes, and even veteran film legend Chow Yun-fat take part across different distances.

For Rachel See, though, this half-marathon gold was more than just another medal. It was a reminder that experience, family support, and a relaxed mindset can still deliver extraordinary results—sometimes when you least expect them. #SCHKM2026 #Running