The Ultimate Team Challenge: How the Ekiden Electrifies the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon
- SportPlus Feature
- Jul 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 28
Unpacking the Ekiden: A Team Relay like No Other
The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM) is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic city routes. While individual glory in the full and half marathons often steals the spotlight, a unique and deeply rooted tradition adds an exciting team dimension to the event: the Ekiden.
For those unfamiliar, an Ekiden is a long-distance relay race originating from Japan. More than just a simple handover of a baton, it embodies a powerful spirit of teamwork, strategy, and shared perseverance. In the context of the SCSM, the Ekiden transforms the solitary pursuit of marathon running into a captivating collective endeavor.
What is the Ekiden and How Does it Work at SCSM?
At its core, the SCSM Ekiden is a team relay race where a full marathon distance (42.195 km) is divided into multiple legs, each run by a different team member. This year, each team will consist of four runners.
Instead of a traditional baton, the symbolic item passed between runners is a tasuki – a sash worn across the chest. This tasuki isn't just a piece of fabric; it represents the collective effort, hopes, and responsibilities of the entire team. The act of passing the tasuki is a moment of intense focus and connection, signifying the transfer of momentum and the shared goal.
Here's a breakdown of how it typically unfolds at the SCSM:
Team Formation: Friends, colleagues, and running clubs form teams of four members, each committing to run a specific leg of the marathon distance.
Varying Leg Distances: The marathon course is strategically broken down into segments of differing lengths and sometimes varying terrain. This allows teams to leverage the strengths of individual runners. For instance, one runner might excel at a shorter, faster leg, while another might be better suited for a longer, more enduring section.
Changeover Zones: Designated changeover zones are set up along the course. These are crucial hubs of activity where runners complete their leg and pass the tasuki to their waiting teammate. The excitement at these zones is palpable, with supporters cheering on the incoming and outgoing runners.
Strategic Planning: Teams often strategise their runner order based on individual strengths and the demands of each leg. This tactical element adds another layer of intrigue to the race.
Shared Finish Line: While individual runners complete their segments, the ultimate goal is for the entire team to collectively cover the full marathon distance. The final runner crosses the finish line, symbolizing the team's successful completion of the Ekiden.
The Spirit of the Ekiden: More Than Just a Race
The appeal of the Ekiden extends far beyond simply covering a distance. It taps into several powerful human elements:
Teamwork and Camaraderie: Running can often be a solitary sport. The Ekiden flips this script, fostering a strong sense of unity and shared purpose. Runners train together, support each other, and celebrate collective achievements.
Strategic Prowess: Deciding who runs which leg and how to maintain pace across transitions becomes a critical strategic exercise for each team.
Inclusivity: The varying leg distances make the Ekiden accessible to a wider range of runners, from seasoned athletes who can tackle longer segments to those who prefer shorter distances but still want to be part of the marathon experience.
Motivation and Accountability: Knowing that teammates are relying on you provides a powerful incentive to push through discomfort and perform at your best. The tasuki itself becomes a tangible representation of this shared responsibility.
High Drama and Excitement: With positions potentially shifting at each changeover zone, the Ekiden provides a dynamic and thrilling race for both participants and spectators.
The Ekiden's Resurgence at SCSM
After a hiatus, the Ekiden made a welcome return to the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon, most recently featuring in the 2024 edition.
Its reintroduction underscores the organizers' commitment to celebrating runners of all abilities and fostering a sense of community within the event. This team-based format adds a fresh dimension to the marathon weekend, allowing more individuals to experience the thrill of the SCSM in a collaborative setting.
Participating in the SCSM Ekiden isn't just about logging kilometers; it's about embodying the enduring spirit of teamwork, pushing personal boundaries for a shared goal, and experiencing the iconic Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon as a united force. It's a testament to how running, often perceived as an individual pursuit, can truly be a powerful team sport. #SCSM2025 #sgmarathon
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