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SEA Games Triathlon squad athletes celebrate achievements and inspire the next generation of athletes over the weekend Bryce Chong crosses the finish line tape at the SMU Aquathlon. PHOTO : AARON LEE Sentosa, Singapore – 6 September 2025 — Singapore national triathlete and SEA Games medallist Bryce Chong clinched victory at the SMU Aquathlon SwimRunSprint 2025 , held at Sentosa on Saturday. Organised by the Singapore Management University (SMU) alumni and student team, the annual aquathlon brought together youths, junior athletes, and community participants for a day of competitive racing in the heart of Singapore’s island destination. Chong, who last week was named in the Singapore Triathlon Association’s SEA Games squad , praised the event’s organisation and its role in nurturing the next generation of multisport athletes. Find out the full roster of 18 multi-sport athletes representing Singapore at this year's 33rd SEA Games in Thailand here . “The event was exceptionally well-organised by the SMU team and alumni,” said Chong. “The course was straightforward, with no shortage of safety personnel ensuring a secure race environment. Hydration points were well-placed, the route was clearly marked with signs, and SMU volunteers were stationed throughout to guide participants.” Team SportPlus athlete Bryce Chong looks to inspire the next generation multi-sport athletes. PHOTO VIA BRYCE CHONG He added that the SMU Aquathlon provides a rare opportunity in Singapore for juniors and youths to experience the aquathlon format. “This race is a fantastic platform for youths and junior athletes to gain valuable experience in the aquathlon format, something we don’t see often in Singapore. Made even better by the affordable entry fees,” Chong shared. For Chong, the race was both a training opportunity and a chance to give back to the community. “It was not just a solid training race but also an opportunity to support a local university event. Most importantly, it was a chance to bond with the community and connect with the next generation of triathletes and aquathletes in Singapore.” With his SEA Games selection and his win at Sentosa, Chong continues to embody the values of a community-focused athlete — competitive at the highest level while remaining dedicated to inspiring and mentoring future triathletes. Rachel Hew wins the Asia Tri Duathlon Cup in Ulaanbaatar. PHOTO VIA @IAMHEWMOROUS Podium Success at Altitude for Singapore Mult-Sport Athletes Separately, other Singapore national multi-sport athletes also made headlines this past week at the Asia Tri Duathlon Cup Ulaanbaatar 2025 in Mongolia. Battling low temperatures, high altitude, and strong winds, Rachel Hew and Ben Khoo secured top finishes in the Elite categories. Rachel Hew came in 1st for the Elite Women Ben Khoo finished 2nd for the Elite Men “First race at Altitude (1350m) during base phase and she nails it. Massive thanks to Level Up by TriFactor for supporting with the IHT/AHT sessions structured around our training program leading up to this and Darine Choo from HPSI for her additional insights after the recent round of testing,” Rachel Hew said in an instagram post. Ben Khoo secures silver in the men's elite at the Asia Tri Duathlon Cup in Ulaanbaatar. PHOTO VIA TAS Ben Khoo described the challenge of returning to international competition: “Finishing in the money at an Asia-level race. Was over the moon to take 2nd place at the Ulaanbaatar Asia Duathlon Cup in Mongolia. It’s been two years since I ‘retired’ from international-level racing with TAS, so it felt like a real validation to take the second step. A good sign for preparations for the SEA Games in December.” The race conditions were punishing for Singapore athletes: 4°C temperatures, 1400m altitude, and 40kph gusts, along with a field of elite runners, professional cyclists, and multiple Mongolia Triathlon Champions. Rachel Hew wins the Asia Tri Duathlon Cup in Ulaanbaatar. PHOTO VIA TAS “I threw caution to the wind, and raced on instinct. The hunt was on. While I could hardly feel my hands or feet for the whole 90min, I hung on to the front pack, staying within striking distance. On the run, I saw the gap was closing fast, and I dug deep on the second lap to reel one of them back. Finishing 2nd, not bad for ‘un-retiring’ to short-course racing. This old body still got wheels,” Ben added. Ben Khoo racing in the Asia Tri Duathlon Cup in Ulaanbaatar. PHOTO VIA TAS The performances by Hew and Khoo, alongside Chong’s Sentosa victory, demonstrate Singapore’s growing strength in multi-sport disciplines and the community-focused spirit of its athletes. #Triathlon #SEAGames2025 #TeamSingapore

# NBA Star Kicks Off 2025 Curry Brand China Tour with Curry Con and First-Ever Asian Curry Camp Stephen Curry at Asia's first Curry Camp in Chongqing, China. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH Chongqing, China, August 18, 2025 - NBA superstar Stephen Curry kicked off his highly anticipated 2025 Curry Brand China Tour in grand fashion at the Chongqing International Expo Center. This event marked the world’s first Curry Con and the Asia debut of Curry Camp . PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH For fans across China, this wasn’t just another promotional stop. It was a cultural celebration, a basketball pilgrimage, and a showcase of how far Curry’s influence extends beyond the hardwood. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH A Decade in the Making This visit marked 10 years since Curry’s last trip to Chongqing. The city responded with unmatched spectacle. Subway cars were wrapped with Curry’s image. Skyscrapers lit up with his signature “Night Night” pose. A breathtaking 5,000-drone light show replayed his most iconic three-pointers across the skyline. A super fan of Stephen Curry at the Curry Con. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH Fans filled the streets in numbers rarely seen outside of championship parades. They chanted “MVP!” as though they were celebrating a Finals victory. For Chongqing, this wasn’t simply an NBA star’s visit. It was a once-in-a-lifetime moment of civic pride. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH Curry Camp Asia: Empowering the Next Generation At the heart of the tour was Curry Camp Asia. This was the first time Curry and Under Armour’s Curry Brand brought their signature youth development program outside of the United States. More than 100 young athletes from across the region were handpicked to participate. Despite the sweltering 40°C heat, Curry’s energy never dipped. He guided drills, showcased his famous shooting touch with deep threes, and even surprised the crowd by throwing down a rare dunk that instantly went viral. First-Ever Curry Camp Outside the U.S. The centerpiece of the tour was the first Curry Camp in Asia. Here, Curry personally mentored young athletes. Despite the intense heat, the NBA’s all-time three-point leader ran drills, nailed deep shots, and even threw down a dunk that sent the crowd into a frenzy. Athletes lining up on court on day 1 of the Curry Camp. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH But Curry Camp has always been about more than on-court skills. True to his philosophy, Curry emphasized teamwork, resilience, and self-belief. These are the same values that have carried him to four NBA championships and two MVPs. To cap off the experience, Curry personally handed out 400 signed pairs of Curry Brand x Under Armour sneakers. This ensured each participant left not just with a memory, but also a tangible symbol of inspiration. For many, it was the highlight of their young basketball journeys. Curry Con: A Festival for the Fans Stephen Curry applauding the participants in a match. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH Fan Devotion on Display The event featured sneaker showcases, interactive games, and exclusive Curry Brand merchandise drops. Fans lined up for hours to get their hands on these items. Beyond the products, Curry Con was about stories and connections. These moments reminded everyone why Curry holds such a unique place in basketball culture. One fan drove 3,000 kilometers from Beijing in a Curry-themed car. Along the way, he collected messages of admiration from supporters. When Curry sat down to watch the tribute, he was visibly moved. This showed once again the deep bond he shares with his fans. An Interview with Reggie Wilson, Senior Footwear Designer from Under Armour. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH A Cultural Exchange Curry also embraced local traditions. He enjoyed a Sichuan face-changing opera performance and laughed at a life-sized wax figure of himself, joking, “Is this my twin?” He reaffirmed his love for Chongqing hot pot, calling it his favorite Chinese dish. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH Bigger Than Basketball: A Cultural Bridge Curry’s reception in Chongqing underscored his rare ability to transcend basketball. For a few days, it wasn’t about politics or trade. It was about basketball, food, and human connection. NBA and China basketball legend Yao Ming makes an appearance. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH As Curry reflected: “Basketball is more than a game — it’s a language we can all speak. I’m humbled by the love and energy from my fans in Chongqing.” Jacob Zhu (left) and Stephen Curry in a Q&A session. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / ALDRICH GOH With over 5.7 million followers on Weibo, Curry remains one of China’s most beloved NBA stars. His 2025 China Tour sets the stage for upcoming stops across Asia. This reinforces his role as not just an NBA icon, but also a cultural ambassador. Basketball UnderArmourSG CurryBrand Conclusion: The Impact of Curry's Tour Curry's 2025 China Tour is more than just a series of events. It represents a bridge between cultures, a celebration of basketball, and a testament to the power of sports in uniting people. As he continues his journey across Asia, the anticipation grows. Fans eagerly await the next opportunity to connect with their hero. The impact of Curry's presence in Chongqing will resonate for years to come. It serves as a reminder that basketball is not just a game; it is a global phenomenon that brings people together. As Curry himself said, “Basketball is a language we can all speak.” This tour is a significant chapter in Curry's legacy, one that highlights his commitment to inspiring the next generation of athletes. The memories created during this tour will undoubtedly motivate young players to pursue their dreams, just as Curry has pursued his.

SportPlus.sg finds out how endurance sports influences romantic relationships in this episode of the Fit Talk Podcast PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Studies have shown that participating in sports together within a romantic relationship can significantly boost connection and satisfaction by creating shared experiences, promoting teamwork, building mutual support, and enhancing positive emotions, leading to a stronger bond between partners; essentially, "sweating together" can strengthen your relationship by providing a fun, challenging activity that fosters shared goals and deepens intimacy. But what are some of the challenges for athletes from the same sport who don't always train together? In this special Valentines' Day episode of the Fit Talk podcast , hosts Chermaine Zhou and Haw Jiaxuan catch up with multi-sport athletes Cedric Chua and Eunice Tan to find out how they juggle trainings with their relationship. Having met each other at the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) through a common friend Bryce Chong (national triathlete), the couple first got into multi-sport at different stages of their lives. Eunice started from aquathlon (Swimming and running), and will be attempting her first duathlon and triathlon this year. Meanwhile, Cedric who has been running for most of his life, picked up cycling in secondary school before transitioning to triathlon at 17 with a group of athlete friends. JX : Since both of you are so into endurance sports, how do you think it influences your relationship? Cedric : We try to plan our week around each other as much as possible - we try to go out together at the same time, train at the same time. We may not be running at the same pace or doing the exact same workouts but there is still a way to spend time together - and sometimes if I have an easy run scheduled then I will just run with her too. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Eunice : Training for multi-sport races is very time consuming - some days its pool, some days you'll bike and some days you run. So at the start of each week we will share our schedules with each other and find out which days we can ride together, which days we can be at the track together. It's not as flexible for me as I was already working, and right now he is doing his internship - so there was a lot of accommodating to do but after a while we got into the routine of trying to merge your schedules together. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG JX : Outside of these days where you meet to train, do you all still go out on dates? Eunice : Of course, we don't consider these as dates haha. Chermaine : Do you all train on your anniversary as well or important dates like birthdays? PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Cedric : Training only takes up at most an hour or two hours of the day so it's not so hard to fit it in. I remember her birthday last year, we did a run and this open water swim, and since we were at the beach already we did a picnic. Chermaine : In what ways do you think having an athletes' mindset is beneficial to your relationship? Eunice : An athlete's mindset would be to set very personal but also achievable goals - when it comes to relationships I think it's the same as well. I have my personal goals and he has his personal goals. It's the same for sport, career as well. We would have our personal goals but we still support each other through these personal goals - and its seeing each other through not just the times we hit our goals but also when we don't hit them. Still showing up at the worst times for each other. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Cedric : An athletes' mindset for me is about perseverance, commitment and patience. Those are the things that I have learned from the sport that I can apply back into life and my own relationship. The sport has made me a very patient person, in the sense that we won't always see immediate results. I believe when it comes to handling relationships it's the same. JX : So who confessed first? Eunice : He did *laughs* PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Cedric : I texted her first, but why I texted her first was because I was talking to Bryce (the guy who got us together). I was asking Bryce if I should text her, and Bryce was convincing me I should text her. I didn't know she was right beside Bryce - so Bryce showed her every single thing we said. I was on the bus on the way back to school at the time. Eunice : You asked Bryce what to text, and I told Bryce what to text and then Bryce told him what to text. *laughs* Chermaine : Ohhh, so that's the athlete's mindset. *laughs* PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG JX : Any advice for couples looking to get into sports together? Cedric : One which I had a challenge with was to be mindful and prioritise your partner over the sport. As much as you love the sport, and you want to complete the full week of training, your partner is still more important. One of the most important things I have learned. Eunice : I would say always eat together. If both of you are already training, you will always need to eat. So always come together eat, and have a good time together. You may not run at the same pace or do things at the same pace but everybody has to eat. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Catch the full discussion via Spotify or watch the full episode in video format now available on SportPlus.sg/watch/podcasts #FitTalkPodcast #SportPlusSG #ValentinesDay

SportPlus.sg  delves into the impact social media has had on running, and examines the credibility of runfluencers as coaches and key opinion leaders in the marketing field as running continues to gain popularity both in Singapore and abroad From L-R: John Yeong (SportPlus.sg Founder), Soh Rui Yong (Singapore national marathoner & 6-time National Record holder), Desmond Ang (High-Performance Runner). PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG A quick look around any office and you will find that most people probably hate running. So how has running become such a popular sport that has seen a rise in the uptake of running events round the world, particularly in the post Covid-19 era? While some analysts have pointed their fingers to this trend as pent-up demand from pre-Covid days, we believe that would be oversimplifying the phenomenon. Whether we like it or not, social media has no doubt played a significant role in glorifying the activity - a quick scroll through your TikTok or Instagram pages and it won't be long before you stumble upon some of your friends vlogging about their long runs or "get ready with me" in their latest activewear outfits. This transcends demographics and isn't just limited to Gen Zs either - some of Singapore's largest running communities such as Singapore Runners Club , Fast and Free Run Club , New Balance Run Club and Urban Milers straddle across both the matured crowd and some of the youngest who are new to running. From seasoned professionals and citizen athletes to the ever day urban miler simply looking to lose some weight or be a part of a healthy movement to socialise, running is certainly making waves in Singapore. But the big question is, is the interest in running genuinely here to stay? Or is it just another commodified fitness trend that some in the community are trying to leverage on as a shortcut to fame? In our first 'The Athletes' Voice' podcast episode, SportPlus.sg looks at the rising trend of runfluencers and the impact of social media on running, and how it has altered the sports and running landscape - from how brands choose to work with athletes, to the choice of apparel and running shoes that runners in the community have decided to adopt for their daily runs and races. To analyse this however, we have to establish proper context as to which came first - did running make runfluencers popular, or did runfluencers make running popular? Soh Rui Yong (left) and Desmong Ang join the debate on runfluencers and Strava Jockeys. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Running Is Here to Stay Contrary to popular belief, based on the National Sport & Exercise Participation Survey (NSPS) running has long been ranked as one of the most popular sports and exercises globally and the trend didn't just happen because of Covid-19. In fact even in sunny Singapore, running ranks only second to brisk walking, outranking even other popular sports such as badminton, cycling (individual) and football (team). We take a quick gander at some of the extracts from SportPlus.sg chat with 6-time national record holder and Singapore elite marathoner Soh Rui Yong (@runsohfast) and high-performance runner Desmond Ang (@unbelievaboy) , who regularly finishes on the podium for running events both locally and regionally. Defining Runfluencers John : How would you guys define runfluencers? Rui Yong : I’ve never thought about it this way. I don’t define runfluencers. It’s just that when I see a post or a person acting a certain way, I’m like “yup, that’s a influencer.” Is there a definite definition for it? It’s not an oxford dictionary word, right? John : To be completely honest, I’ve never heard of the term before but in recent times, I’ve heard it more often. Not so much in terms of runfluencers but in terms of influencers and content creators. Influencers could be an elite athlete, or it could be an everyday person. Generally, it’s an individual who has the capacity to influence people into making a purchase decision or into doing something and have the persuasive power, which technically has nothing to do with your follower count. The other part of course would be content creators who focus on taking good pictures or videos with a greater focus more on the quality of their content but may or may not have high followings. In our context, some are basically both (influencer and content creator). PHOTO: STANDARD CHARTERED SINGAPORE MARATHON Are Runfluencers and Elite Runners Mutually Exclusive? Desmond : The first criteria I have in my head when I look at a particular post or profile, is hey, is this guy fast? Rui Yong : *LAUGHS* if not, he’s a runfluencer? Desmond : No man, fast is relative. I'm just saying this is how I see things, and maybe this is how other people see things. From my experience and maybe others' experience, if we think “hey this guy is fast, no this guy is not a runfluencer, this guy is an elite man.” Rui Yong (towards John) : If you were to choose between one of these three categories, how would you best define yourself? John : I derive joy from content creation and storytelling, that's how SportPlus.sg came about. I derive joy from running but more as a hobby on the side and keeping healthy. It's just that in this particular area, it became synergistic for me so along the way, we happened to have events and brands, so I helped them to some degree. PHOTO VIA DESMOND ANG Rui Yong : I think definitely in running, it’s so objective right? A lot of a runners are measured by the time you've run. If your time is good enough, you might get selected for the SEA Games team. If not, sorry you’re not good enough. A lot of a runners' self-worth can be healthily or not, probably not, be attached to your marathon personal best (PB). I think that’s an elitist way of looking at it. I’m like anyone else where obviously if a 2:10 marathon runner shows up in the room, i’m more likely to give him the time of day than a 5 hour marathon runner, I probably won’t know who they are. That’s unfortunate. To a certain extent, we all have physiological limits right? For example, my physiological limit would be 2:15, it may not be 2:05. Kipchoge’s is a sub 2! Would I be any less of a human being if I’m pushing myself, trying to get the best of myself than the person who’s genetically gifted for the sport? Probably not. I don’t think you should solely measure someone based on how fast they run. But unfortunately that's what catches attention. If we’re talking about how good you are, that is also very widely defined because I might be good in Singapore but not in Kenya. If I go to Kenya, I might be considered a runfluencer you know? *John and Desmond both laugh* There are people who barely run but take photos in running attire. I’ve worked with a few of these people. Some are influencers that brands engage because they have a good following. PHOTO: UNDER ARMOUR On the Credibility and Quality of Runfluencers Rui Yong: Why do you think brands engage runfluencers? John: I think specific to the Singapore sporting culture, not so much overseas, not all athletes are kings and queens in our society unfortunately. Overseas, athletes are revered, they are really respected. In Singapore, purely based on that fact alone, brands are finding it very hard to market sports related products. A lot of the athletes by default who are considered performance athletes, may not get them the ROI that they would get overseas. As a result, they will turn more to other people who may not be doing the sport on an elite level, but because they do it on a regular basis and they’re known in the community, they’re more relatable, right? So they fill that gap as a result in terms of purchase and influencing purchase decisions. But I want to ask you all this, when do runfluencers cross the line? It’s one thing to share my journey, but when I offer tips on how to run, what’s the danger of that when I’m not actually someone who is trained in running or a coach? PHOTO VIA DESMOND ANG On Runfluencers Offering Running Tips Rui Yong : I think everyone’s free to give advice as they see fit but at the same time, you could be wrong. I try to make sure that everything I say, I research and I google it and make sure the science is right. Sometimes, even if the science is right but it doesn't make sense for that particular context then you shouldn't do it. For example, double threshold seems to be the new "in thing" these days. Would you prescribe double threshold to someone who’s working in a bank from 8am to 8pm? No, because that poor person doesn't have time to recover in between. You have to adapt your training programmes and a lot of it comes from experience. Brands and ROI: Quality of Numbers Matter Rui Yong : In Singapore, we have a lot of numbers mindset. A quantifiable mindset. It’s an easy way to measure ROI. I think what’s more nuanced is the quality of the numbers. For example, if you’re an Olympic champion with 50k followers and he posts about a shoe versus an influencer with 500k followers who posts about a shoe, who do you think will have better impact on the quality of the shoe? I would think it's the Olympian. But if the brand were to go purely by numbers, they’d lose out on the Olympian. Desmond : If you’re a brand seeding a supershoe and you give it to someone who isn't particularly fast, but has a lot of eyeballs on them then it depends on the brand’s ROI. If it’s for people to know that these shoes exist, then sure. Or does it translate to sales and your branding? So, if someone carries your top performance shoes, in a way it has to make sense. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG John : Yes, if you’re getting someone who’s not that fast to endorse a fast shoe, it becomes a bit of a mismatch and poor product fit. Desmond : Unless the plan is to get that someone who isn't fast, to get a fast shoe then because of that, he becomes faster! I mean dude, sign me up man. *Rui Yong and John laugh* Watch the full episode of 'The Athletes' Voice' [Episode 1]: Runfluencers and Strava Jockeys on our Watch page now on www.sportplus.sg #SportPlusSG #SportPlusStudios #TheAthletesVoice

Subas Gurung and Fiona Lim win Men's and Women's Half Marathon races, while Vanessa Lee and Shaun Goh dominate in the 10km category (From L-R): Vanessa Lee, Shohib Marican and Melvin Wong all smiles ahead of the flag off. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Singapore, 14 October 2024 - Marina Bay played host to a thrilling road race yesterday morning as some of Singapore's top athletes came flying out of the blocks in a bid to win an overall prize purse worth $8,000 at the Garmin Run Asia Series Singapore . Garmin Run Singapore participants crossing the startline atop Marina Barrage. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Led by the likes of Subas Gurung, Shaun Goh, Keane Ko, Sanjay Manimaran, Jon Lim, Melvin Wong and for the men's category, and Vanessa Lee, Nicole Low, Goh Shing Ling, Choo Ling Er and Sharon Tan for the women's, the 21.1km and 10km categories got off to a blazing start at sunrise. What is the Garmin Run Asia Series? Read up more in our feature story here . Men's half-marathon winner Subas Gurung (right) with his prize. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG They were joined by over 5,000 participants at Marina Barrage in the event's first ever appearance in Singapore, as part of a 9-country circuit across Asia. The Garmin Run Asia Series which began in 2022, was founded with the objective of going beyond Garmin’s products to bring runners in every city together to celebrate their love for running, uniting runners across the region. Garmin Run Singapore pacers pose for the cameras ahead of the event flag off. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Speaking with SportPlus.sg after her race, Choo Ling Er who got second place in the women's half marathon category shared: "I just came fresh off a full IRONMAN two weeks ago where I won my age group and got my slot the world championships for next year, I was feeling a little bit tired and I can feel that my body is not ready to push but I am about 90 seconds off my personal best today so I am very happy." A participant makes his way down the Marina Barrage slopes at the start line. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Australian born Singapore-based ultramarathoner Natalie Dau , conqueror of 1,000km from Thailand to Singapore earlier this year, was all smiles after her 10km sharing: "I think it was great seeing so many familiar faces out there, saying hi to everyone. I wanted to do my 10k under 50 minutes and I did, I managed to hit 46 minutes which was fantastic." When asked what their favourite moments of the race were, Cindy Chiu  and Emily Hsieh , pacers from Garmin Taiwan  enthused about their personal experiences visiting Singapore and the good weather they were blessed with on race day after a humid shakeout run the day before. Garmin Run Club Taiwan representatives at the start line ahead of flag off. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG "This being my first time in Singapore, I have to say the view of today's run was amazing - we can look around and take in the best views of Singapore and beside the bay. We were blessed with great weather and just a bit of a breeze today so it wasn't too hot. It is similar to Taiwan in that it's very humid. But when I was running today I felt really happy and high," said Cindy with a laugh. Shohib Marican crosses the finishing line, closely followed by Melvin Wong. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Emily echoed her sentiments saying: "The most beautiful part for me was the start point. We have never run from a start line that is from a higher vantage point, and to have it set against the beautiful backdrop against the sunrise was just amazing." Women podium finishers Yong Man Yun (left), Vanessa Lee (centre) and Nicole Low. Men's 21.1km (Top Five) 1. Subas Gurung (01:08:50) 2. Keane Ko (01:17:07) 3. Jasper Yong (01:21:21) 4. Donny Chan (01:21:52) 5. Weidi Swee (01:22:09) Choo Ling Er shares her race experience with SportPlus.sg in a post race interview. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Garmin Run Singapore Podium Winners Women's 21.1km (Top Five) 1. Fiona Lim (01:33:02) 2. Choo Ling Er (01:34:09) 3. Sharon Tan (01:34:27) 4. Tse Xin Hor (01:40:32) 5. Natasha Anthony (01:40:39) Men's 10km (Top Five) 1. Shaun Goh (31:49) 2. Jon Lim (32:27) 3. Sanjay Manimaran (32:52) 4. Jordan Donnelly (34:00) 5. Adarsh Aravinth (34:14) Natalie Dau in a post race interview with the SportPlus.sg team. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Women's 10km (Top Five) 1. Vanessa Lee (37:15) 2. Nicole Low (38:18) 3. Goh Shing Ling (38:19) 4. Serena Teoh (41:55) 5. Yong Man Yun (42:59) #GarminRunAsiaSeries2024 #GarminSG #BeatYesterday #FromZeroToHero

With lessons learned from last year, Garmin Run Singapore 2025 returns with thoughtful changes, stronger operations, and a focus on rebuilding confidence PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG / HANIDA HUSSIEN Following a wave of poorly executed runs in Singapore, Garmin’s flagship event is set to return not just with promises—but with real, tangible improvements to earn back runners' trust. After a year of missteps and mounting disappointment across multiple running events in Singapore, it’s fair to say local runners are weary—of poor logistics, confusing race routes, and unmet promises. PHOTO: GARMIN RUN SINGAPORE But if there’s one event that’s taking that feedback to heart and pushing forward with conviction, it’s Garmin Run Singapore 2025 . “We know where we went wrong,” a spokesperson from the Garmin Run organising team shared candidly in a recent interview with SportPlus.sg . “And we are addressing each issue. We hope that runners keep an open mind about this year’s run.” PHOTO: GARMIN RUN SINGAPORE Learning from the Past, Leading into the Future The team behind Garmin Run has turned last year’s criticism into fuel for a serious rethink. With a newly appointed, experienced organising crew and input drawn from successful Garmin Runs in other countries across Asia—including Japan, Malaysia, and Hong Kong—2025’s edition is aiming to be everything 2024 wasn’t. “Last year was indeed a learning experience,” the spokesperson said. “We went through all the comments and feedback and zoomed in on the pain points to improve the experience. The route will be tested by Garmin athletes and runners for feedback and adjustments.” That kind of proactive planning is exactly what many runners in Singapore have been calling for—not just from Garmin, but from race organisers across the board. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG  / HANIDA HUSSIEN Safety, Clarity, and Competitive Spirit One of the most pointed critiques from last year’s race was the start line—positioned on a slope with no staggered flag-off system, it created a congested and potentially dangerous launch. This year, that’s gone. “Runners’ safety is our utmost priority,” the spokesperson affirmed. “We are replanning the start line, finish line, and potential congestion points. Flag-off pens will be implemented this year to ensure all runners are safe and comfortable during flag-off.” In another exciting move, a competitive pen will be introduced for the 10km and Half Marathon categories—offering serious runners a shot at podium glory while ensuring smoother flow for recreational participants. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG  / HANA BASIR Operations Get a Serious Overhaul Beyond the course, Garmin Run Singapore 2025 is fine-tuning the finer (but no less critical) details: logistics, signage, hydration, and bag deposit. “There will be a dedicated team managing the bag deposit and collection to ensure a smooth flow and minimal waiting times,” the spokesperson explained. “We encourage runners to deposit their bags earlier so that there is sufficient time for them to get to the start line.” PHOTO: GARMIN RUN SINGAPORE Directional clarity is also getting a major upgrade. “The operations team will do multiple walkthroughs for the venue to ensure that sufficient directional signage is deployed at key points. A detailed runners’ guide will also be shared in advance.” Hydration—another hot-button issue—won’t be an afterthought this year either. “We are working through the hydration point plan, taking into account accessibility for runners, sufficient quantity, and keeping hydration points within a 2.5km distance from each other.” PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG   / HANA BASIR Race Packs, Real Fit, and Real Change In 2024, issues around apparel sizing and long waits for finisher tees added to runner frustrations. Garmin isn’t overpromising here, but they’re improving: “We have factored in more larger sizes this year. While sizes remain limited, runners can refer to last year’s sizing and do proper measurements for a better fit.” Transparency and realism like this show a willingness to be accountable—not just apologetic. PHOTO: GARMIN RUN SINGAPORE Training Together, Running Stronger Perhaps the most inspiring shift comes not from logistics, but community building. In collaboration with ASICS Running Club , Garmin is hosting free weekly training sessions led by national athletes like Shah Feroz , Yong Man Yun , and Loh Guo Pei . “These sessions are free for all to join, and happen every Tuesday and Thursday evening, and Saturday morning,” the spokesperson said. “It’s about helping runners improve—not just for the event, but in general.” It’s a rare, commendable example of an organiser investing in the running journey, not just the race day. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG  / HANA BASIR A Community Run with Regional Vision With Garmin Run Asia Series in ten Asian markets, the Singapore edition isn’t just being rebuilt in isolation. “We’ve taken learnings from Taipei, Malaysia, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Hong Kong,” the spokesperson shared. “From safety to hydration to post-run experience, it’s all being rethought.” And it’s not just about doing better than last year—it’s about setting a new standard in a local race landscape that’s lost some trust. “Garmin is committed to making Garmin Run Asia Series a run series to look forward to in the region,” the spokesperson concluded. “We welcome all feedback after the run to continue to improve and enhance the experience each year.” PHOTO: GARMIN RUN SINGAPORE The Finish Line Isn’t the End—It’s the Start In a year where many local races in Singapore have left runners disappointed or disillusioned, all eyes will be on Garmin Run Singapore 2025 to see if the influence and feedback from community voices can indeed raise the standards of Singapore running events. While not over promising on a perfect execution of this year’s event, there is an authenticity and openness from the new organisers of Garmin Run Singapore 2025 that offers a rare glimmer of hope. It isn’t perfect yet—but it’s evolving transparently, led by a team that’s clearly listening. So here’s the call to the running community: let’s show up, support the improvements, and help shape the kind of running culture we want to see in Singapore. Because maybe, just maybe, this is the race worth running again. Read the full SportPlus.sg interview with Garmin Run in our special feature here . #GarminRunAsiaSeries #GarminRunSG #GarminRun2025 #GarminSG #BeatYesterday

From sacrificing her job to pursue triathlon, to sharing tips for beginners and the spirit of races like the MetaSprint Series, Rachel Longstaff's love for triathlon shines PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG It’s never easy to leave everything you know behind in search of an uncertain path and follow your heart. But if you don’t take that risk to embark on unchartered waters, you may never discover your fullest potential and be left to rue what could’ve been. “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” - Les Brown. Spend just ten minutes with her, and you won’t just hear about her love for triathlon—you’ll feel it for yourself. Set to kick off a big 2025 with the MetaSprint Series Duathlon in February and the MetaSprint Series Triathlon the following month, Rachel Longstaff has set her eyes on making her mark on the Singapore triathlon scene in a significant year for Southeast Asian sports. Whether or not you're a triathlete, listening to how she lights up when sharing her ambitions, paired with an unwavering tenacity, makes it impossible for her self-belief not to inspire you. The 27-year-old began her sporting career as a competitive 5km and 10km runner. Ever since she caught the multi-sport bug in 2024 though, she’s never looked back since. Finding her overflowing love for the sport too hard to ignore, Rachel decided it was time to risk leaving her stable job to pursue triathlon full time.  “Once I’d planted that seed in my head about six months ago, I got to a point at my job where I realised I didn't want to look 20 or 30 years down the line and think about the ‘what ifs’,” shared the Mathematics teacher by day. “Working and training, I found it challenging to work out what I truly want and what my calling is. I’m in my 20s and I do truly love the sport to bits. I’ve gotten this far having never taken it on as a full time pursuit. I want to see what I can do and pour my all into it.”  Currently in her final six months as a teacher, Rachel is balancing her job with rigorous training, pushing through until June before fully dedicating herself to triathlon and the journey towards breaking records under the Singapore flag.  PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG On most, if not all days, she’s up at 5am for her first training session before heading to work. And while many look forward to some much-needed rest after a long day, Rachel is back on her bike or out for a run for her second session of the day. For many, making the switch from running to triathlon might seem daunting due to the perception of three sports having a higher strain on the body. For Rachel, however, it’s had the opposite effect, offering her body a balance and relief she hadn’t expected. “I do a lot more hours than I ever did running but I think it’s more manageable because you’re varying the sport. I think I felt more under recovered as a runner than I ever felt as a triathlete because you can swim and run a hard track session on the same day and they’re working different muscles,” she explained. “I was a runner who was always slightly injury prone so I did have to do a little bit of swimming and cycling but I didn't have to take it seriously. Now that I train in all three sports, it’s ramped up obviously. If there’s people wanting to get into triathlon, rest assured it’s helped me more from an injury point of view. It’s more manageable even though the hours have gone up.” PHOTO: HANIDA HUSSIEN, SPORTPLUS.SG Having only truly embraced triathlon in 2024, Rachel knows just how crucial it is to have a positive and electrifying maiden race. With the MetaSprint Series Duathlon 2025 on the horizon, it’s the community building opportunities that draws her in, and is something she feels will help spark interest in the sport that’s given her so much. “I ride four hours every Saturday and if you told me that a year and a half ago, I wouldn’t have believed you. That’s the beauty of MetaSprint Series, they give people the triathlon experience and the joy of the sport. People get to meet one another and build the community, which is a key aspect of the sport. Community is everything.” she emphasized. “People think it’s an individual sport but it’s really not. I actually tried triathlon during lockdown and I got to a point where I felt it wasn't for me. I was training a lot on my own but then I came to Singapore and started training out here and for me, the community is a huge part of what makes me go after my goals. I absolutely love the swim squad that I'm a part of. It’s the people I wake up to. I’m up at 5.15am and I know who I’m going to be with and they’re good people.” The MetaSprint Series isn’t the only triathlon taking to Singapore’s roads early in the year, with the Singapore T100 making its highly anticipated return this April. While the T100 is a larger race, Rachel believes that smaller events like the MetaSprint Series play a vital role in setting the stage and building momentum for challenges like the Singapore T100. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG “I’ve always learned in training that you need the race day feeling in practice. These beginner-friendly races give you all the simulations that you need to be adequately prepared for things like the transitions in the T100, the atmosphere you’ll experience and how to start well. It gives you everything you need to know what the key moments are in T100,” shared the athlete. Sharing her biggest tip for aspiring triathletes, Rachel advises, “Know your why. You’ll have moments where you think, ‘Why the hell am I doing this? I don't want to do this anymore.’ But if you’ve got the right people around you and you know your why, it helps a lot.” Training twice a day alongside a job is no easy feat. For Rachel, thinking about those she’s shared her toughest times with is where she pulls strength from when she feels as though she can’t go any further. Having grown up in England and Singapore, Rachel has had the privilege of watching some of her friends make it to the Olympics. With that came the realization that the stars are, in fact, within reach. “I truly believe that being surrounded by them and feeling as though I’ve got the same potential as them, makes me feel like I can go further,” she gushed. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG “I’m fascinated by the unlimited bounds of human performance. When it’s tough, your brain will quit first, so you have to be mentally strong. In the toughest of sessions, knowing how good you could be and having that vision of what your goals are really helps.” For the 27-year-old, who is in the process of securing Singaporean citizenship, the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand at the end of the year is her ultimate goal. Her self-belief, a gift from her journey in endurance sports, shines through clearly. “I think the fascinating thing about endurance sport is that everybody who starts it probably thought they couldn't do it. It’s a sport that proves to yourself that what you once thought was not possible really is possible,” shared Rachel. “Once you’ve proven to yourself physically that you can do a lot of things, you can go into things you were daunted by. You’ll think, ‘I can do great things,’ and that’ll transcend to other aspects of life. “There is more inside of me.” #MetaSprintSeries #MetasprintSeries2025 #MetaSportSG

The third regional 10km run finished on a high note in Bangkok as top runners from across the region set streets ablaze with fast times PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Singapore, 23 September 2024 - The ASICS META : Time : Trials Thailand 2024 ended on a high note as the regional running event returned to Thailand once again to celebrate its third anniversary. This time around, some 41 ASICS athletes from across Southeast Asia were racing in the ASICS Flagship METASPEED™ series - METASPEED™ SKY PARIS and METASPEED™ EDGE PARIS . PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG They were joined by over 3,000 general participants for the event at the Suphachalasai National Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Certified by the Athletics Association of Thailand, this race saw all runners being challenged with a 10-kilometre distance where they could set a new Personal Best (PB) for themselves, and enjoy the thrilling race atmosphere and exciting activities lined up at the race village. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Highlights from the Men's 10KM Invitational Category included Sonny Wagdos from the Philippines winning the gold medal with a time of 31.29 minutes, closely followed by teammate and countryman Richard Salano (31.32 minutes), with Vimal Govendarajoo of Malaysia taking bronze with a Personal Best time of 31.55 minutes. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG In the women's 10KM Invitational category, it was a nail-biting sprint finish between both Singapore athletes Goh Chui Ling and debutant Goh Shing Ling. Winner of the first edition of the ASICS MTT Goh Chui Ling claimed her second champion's medal with a time of 38.18 minutes while Goh Shing Ling crossed the finish line closely after in 38.21 minutes. Vietnam's Nguyen Thi Thuy Van secured the bronze position on the podium with a time of 38.27 minutes. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG In the open category, the top 3 best male runners were Kebede Aberra Dinke with a time of 31.56 minutes, followed by Dillon Lee and Ebisa Takele respectively. For the women's Bontu Demisse Ware crossed the finish line first with a time of 35.28 minutes, followed by Seble Duog Beriso and Rachel Longstaff. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Gabriel Yap, Regional Senior Marketing Director of ASICS Asia Pte Ltd, said, "Today we have seen the high energy and dedication of all runners from across the region. They came together to express their determination to push their limits while having a great time in this joyful atmosphere. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG What this community of runners always offer is fun and unity and how they are allowed to celebrate the power of exercise on the body and mind. I would like to congratulate all runners and thank them for being a part of this year's race." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG #ASICSMETATIMETRIALS #ASICSRunning #ASICSSG #ASICSTH

Sydney Marathon ballot entry date, is there a seven star medal and why Sydney Marathon remains a compelling proposition for runners in Southeast Asia as a World Marathon Major PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Will there be a seven-star medal for six-star finishers at Sydney Marathon? When is the general ballot date for entry into the 2025 TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS? These and other frequently asked questions (FAQ) here in our special feature studio show with representatives of the TCS Sydney Marathon. Last week, SportPlus.sg hosted two key members of pont3, organisers of the TCS Sydney Marathon , at SportPlus Studios to find out what runners can expect in 2025, after Sydney Marathon joined the ranks of the world's most prestigious marathons as a World Marathon Major. James Constantine , digital marketing manager at Pont3, organisers of the Sydney Marathon; and Monika Denkova , Marketing Executive at Pont3; were joined by Melvin Wong , Team Singapore and SEA Games athlete and Sydney Marathon ambassador to Singapore in 2023, as well as Arthur Tong , founder of Elevate Performance Coaching - coaching partner for #SGtoSydney and Cheryl Tay , content creator and key opinion leader, and a participant of the 2024 Sydney Marathon. Why Should Runners from Southeast Asia Consider Running Sydney Marathon in 2025? When asked why runners from Singapore and Southeast Asia should consider Sydney Marathon as a world marathon major ahead of the other six more established marathons in the world, James shared: "In terms of other six majors, it's very well documented on publications how hard it is to get in. London has 840,000 applications each year - we might get there one day, but it's not happening this year. The biggest thing is the ease of access for Singaporeans to come to Sydney." He added, "Yes, there is a general ballot, but there won't be as many applications as the other majors, yet it is a Major. So it is the most accessible Major, so people have the best chance of running Sydney next year." "The actual distance from Singapore to Sydney, I think apart from Tokyo, it's also the shortest distance by travel. I know no one likes flying 20 hours plus to America. We love getting there, but the flight itself is really far." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG A Marathon not just for elite runners, but for everyone Cheryl chimed in: "I walked this year's Sydney Marathon and still had a great time. To put it into context, I probably did something I wouldn't recommend to everyone to do because I tore my ankle ligament and had a chip fracture about a week before Sydney Marathon, but I was very determined to run the Sydney Marathon because I had a hunch it was going to become a Major and really wanted to get an automatic entry slot. So this is just to show non elite runners that even if you aren't a fit and fast runner, Sydney Marathon is a doable course." "I walked the course for 6 hours and 46 minutes, and I feel like I know the course very well. Sydney and Australia is a great place to go to because there is a direct flight, the command of language is easy for us because it's English, the food is great, and the weather is a big plus as well especially when you live in a tropical region where we are. It's also easy to get around. And of course the people are all very friendly." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Ease of Access to Start and Finish Lines via Public Transport How about getting to the start line on race day given that Sydney Marathon has an earlier start time than other World Majors? "What was perfect timing this year for us was the opening of the metro, which happened just 3 weeks before the race - so a lot of runners caught the underground express train, which runs right underneath Sydney harbour and takes literally 3 minutes to get from the CBD to North Sydney where the start line is. And runners can expect the same in 2025," James shared. "A lot of the talk was about the updated course and the finish line. But all these little things contribute to the overall runners' experience as well before and during race day. Especially to manage anxiety levels for runners who may be worried about how to get to the start line." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Will there be any changes to the Sydney Marathon course in 2025? One of the more commonly asked questions for runners who have experienced the 2024 and 2023 Sydney Marathons is whether there will be a change of course now that Sydney has become a World Major, to which James responded: "The start line won't change, and the finish line won't change. So runners can expect the same ease of access to the start line." Can Runners Expect a Better Sydney Marathon Expo? For runners who have been to bigger expos at other World Majors, the Sydney Marathon expo this year may not have measured up to the same level, but Monica Denkova remains optimistic and indicated that the organising team is well aware of the sentiments and are working to improve the expo from 2025 onwards. She says: "Runners can expect a lot more space - it will definitely be a major upgrade, from this year we were secured to hold 7, which is one part of the ICC. and next year that will completely double, we had an immense amount of space, an increase in store numbers from 2023 and that will increase for next year." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG "I don't know the exact numbers as yet, but we want to showcase our partners, we have charity opportunities to increase next year as well, and the ICC was a big part of improving that runner experience for us this year." James added: "Having been to marathons like the New York City Marathon expo, we have seen how big the expo and experience is like there even before the marathon, and we know that's the direction we need to move into, now that we are number seven. We are looking to deliver a better experience for runners in the coming years." Placing Runners' Experiences at the heart of all things Sydney Marathon In 2024, SportPlus.sg brought Elevate Performance Coaching into Singapore's Sydney Marathon #SGtoSydney program, as part of a larger effort that yielded 420 runners at the 2024 Sydney Marathon. As part of that initiative, runners had access to a marathon coaching program led by Elevate Performance Coaching, and Arthur Tong shares his thoughts on his team's contributions to this year's Sydney Marathon experience for Singapore runners. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG "As a coach we have the privilege of helping athletes prepare for a race. It's always about the preparation journey. I am a little bit biased towards Sydney because I spent 4 memorable years in Sydney, so I know the place and I knew the runners would have a great time," says Arthur. "But in order to have a great time, they need to have properly prepared otherwise it would be painful doing an event as challenging as Sydney Marathon." "So it was heartening to see them committing to the program, runners show up for the program, we curated track programs where runners did speed and strength training, we curated endurance run programs to help runners understand the lead up and progressive build up to the marathon - you don't want to overcook yourself." "So I had the privilege of seeing many runners going through our program and then finally going to Sydney and having a great time," he said with a smile. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Will there be a Seven Star Medal with Sydney Marathon as a Major? But how about those who have already completed all six majors? Is this new addition of Sydney Marathon to the World Majors going to change the six star medal iniative? "The six star medal is run by the Abbott World Marathon Majors, they have come out to say we are looking to work towards a nine star medal," shares James. "It's no secret now that Cape Town Marathon passed their first year of assessment towards being a World Major, while Shanghai Marathon is now the other candidate, and they are extraordinary. So WMM is working towards this long term goal but they are committing to only nine and a nine-star medal." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG A Customisable "Make Your Own Medal" Experience "Now there is a way in which where you can create your own medal though, and that's very exciting. The Majors have released the six star display, and that can now be a seven star display, and it is a create your own medal initiative," said James. "John you have run Berlin and New York City. If you run Sydney in 2025, you can now create your own three star medal. This is very relevant for runners who have no plans to complete all seven of the Majors, or do not have the funds to do so. They can actually still create their own medal now which is very exciting." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Recognising Runners' Journeys at the Majors "Sydney and the other Majors have essentially coins which you can add into your display to create a seven star medal. Minimum is two, maximum is nine. So that is a way that runners can now be recognised on their journey towards completing the World Marathon Majors, I really like that because I don't think I will be finishing the seven or nine." "At least now there is a way I can tell people these are the Majors I have run, and have my own star medal." "The six star medal itself won't change, but what they are doing is creating this accessible initiative that recognises Sydney and possibly Cape Town as part of the Majors - it's just a different way of celebrating runners' journeys in the Majors." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Sydney Marathon Candidacy Club and General Ballot Dates How can runners join the Sydney Marathon in 2025 now that it is a World Marathon Major? Monika shares: "We've just announced the date the marathon will be next year, the 31 August, and now we are onto the hot topic of how to get in. We're appreciative of our candidacy club members - everyone who has run Sydney Marathon in 2022, 2023, and 2024, we are extremely grateful for what they have helped made TCS Sydney Marathon into today." "With that being said, they have a guaranteed entry into Sydney Marathon either in 2025, 2026 or 2027." She adds: "10,000 spots for those special members of ours who have indicated they wish to run 2025 have all gotten their slots. The next best thing is the general ballot." "Everyone whether international or domestic who haven't run in the last years, this is their best chance to get in first into Sydney next year. We have released a date that is the 10 December - Sydney time it is 10am, and Singapore it would be 7am given the time difference." "It will be open for 3 weeks, heaps of time for you to enter the ballot until 30 December where the ballot closes." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Understanding the Ballot Process at the World Marathon Majors If you are entering via the general ballot, there is usually a period during which you can submit your entry. The ballot will randomly select participants. Entry costs and additional information about requirements (e.g., age, experience) are listed. The FAQ section will cover details about registration deadlines, race day logistics, and eligibility criteria, among other aspects. Make sure to check the official Sydney Marathon website for the most accurate and current information when it becomes available! #SydneyMarathon #MadeSydneyAMajor

Muslim athletes who are into endurance sports can train effectively during Ramadan without sacrificing health, energy, or fitness goals with the right adjustments and nutrition strategies PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG For Muslim athletes, the arrival of Ramadan brings with it a unique set of challenges. Observing a month of fasting from dawn to sunset requires a shift in not only daily routines but also training and nutrition. Balancing physical performance while honoring the sacred fast can seem daunting, especially for those in demanding sports. With the right nutritional strategies and thoughtful training adjustments, it is entirely possible to maintain peak performance and even thrive during this special time of the year. National triathlete and SEA Games athlete Ahmad Arif Ibrahim   shares with SportPlus.sg  on The Athletes Voice podcast   how he adapts both training and fueling strategies during the fasting month so as to maintain peak performance. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Arif shares: "During Ramadan period I have to make adjustments to my trainings as well as my diet. For trainings it revolves around the time that I can refuel, or supplement my body. So for the morning session, the latest time we can eat till is usually 5:20 or 5:30 to be safe. So I try to get my sessions done by 5am. So it involves waking up slightly earlier, going out at 3am or 4am to get that first session done, which is usually an easier session." "For the evenings it depends on the session, if it's an easier session I can get it done at 6pm onwards, but if it's a hard session (like intervals) I would do it after I break fast. I'll eat two or three dates and some water to get that sugar boost in the bloodstream before I start." "Once the session is done, I will start replenishing with rice, protein powder or anything else I can get my hands on." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG How much protein powder should an athlete take for trainings during Ramadan? Arif reflects: "How much protein powder I take would depend on the nature of my training for that day. If it's a hard day, I'll drink one before I start fasting, and one after I break fast. So it's really dependent on my energy expenditure for the day. On hard days my energy expenditure is significantly higher so I will take more on such days." Just like Arif, other Muslim athletes who are into endurance sports can also train effectively during Ramadan without sacrificing health, energy, or fitness goals with the right adjustments and nutrition strategies. The Ramadan Challenge: Fasting and Training Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and connection to the faith, but for athletes, it also means navigating the physical demands of fasting while maintaining a rigorous training schedule. The long hours of fasting, coupled with the need for rest and recovery, can make it hard to keep up with typical training regimens. The key is to approach nutrition and hydration strategically during non-fasting hours—specifically between Iftar (breaking the fast) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal). With thoughtful meal planning, careful hydration, and optimal training timing, athletes can perform at their best while staying true to the spirit of Ramadan. Hydration: The Foundation of Energy One of the most critical aspects of training during Ramadan is staying hydrated. Dehydration can significantly impair performance, particularly in endurance activities or high-intensity workouts. During the fasting hours, it’s easy to become dehydrated, but proper hydration during non-fasting hours can make a world of difference. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Hydration Tips Drink plenty of water : Aim for at least 3-4 liters of water between Iftar and Suhoor to maintain hydration levels. Consider incorporating electrolyte drinks to replenish lost minerals and prevent dehydration. Eat water-rich foods : Include hydrating fruits and vegetables in your meals, such as cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and tomatoes. These foods can boost hydration and support energy levels throughout the day. Suhoor and Iftar: Balanced Meals for Fuel and Recovery Meal timing and composition are critical for athletes during Ramadan. Your Suhoor meal should provide sustained energy for the day ahead, while Iftar should focus on rehydrating and replenishing nutrients after a long fast. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal) Complex Carbohydrates : Start the day with slow-digesting, fiber-rich carbs that will provide lasting energy. Foods like oats, whole-grain bread, sweet potatoes, and brown rice are ideal choices. Protein : Include a good source of protein to help maintain muscle mass throughout the day. Eggs, Greek yogurt, tofu, and chicken are great options. Healthy Fats : Fats help provide long-lasting energy. Add avocados, nuts, seeds, or olive oil to your Suhoor meal. Avoid sugary foods : While tempting, refined sugars can cause a rapid spike and subsequent crash in energy levels. Opt for whole, nutrient-dense foods instead. Iftar (Breaking the Fast) Rehydrate : Begin with water and a few dates—a traditional choice for breaking the fast, as they provide natural sugars, fiber, and electrolytes. Lean Protein : After fasting, your body needs protein for muscle recovery and repair. Choose lean protein sources like chicken, fish, or plant-based options like lentils and chickpeas. Complex Carbs : Replenish glycogen stores with whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat bread. Sweet potatoes are another excellent choice. Vegetables : Include a variety of vegetables for fiber and micronutrients, such as spinach, broccoli, carrots, and zucchini. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Timing Your Training: Optimise Performance and Recovery With fasting periods spanning from dawn to sunset, it’s essential to plan workouts around your meal and hydration windows. The timing of your training can greatly influence performance and recovery. Best Times to Train During Ramadan After Iftar (Post-Fasting) : This is the best time to engage in intense training sessions. After you’ve rehydrated and refueled, your body will have the necessary energy to perform at a high level. Focus on strength training or high-intensity workouts after Iftar to maximize results. Before Suhoor (Early Morning) : If you prefer to train before the day begins, consider doing lighter, lower-intensity sessions (such as stretching, yoga, or light cardio) in the early morning. This can be a good option for athletes who want to maintain consistency without overtaxing their bodies. Avoid Midday Workouts : Avoid training in the middle of the day when the body is both dehydrated and fasting. High-intensity exercise during this period can lead to fatigue and muscle breakdown. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Supplements: Filling Nutritional Gaps During Ramadan, it can be challenging to get all the nutrients you need through food alone. Supplements can help fill in the gaps and ensure you're getting enough protein, vitamins, and minerals to support your training and recovery. Supplements to Consider Protein Powder : Whether whey or plant-based, protein powders can help you meet your protein goals, particularly after training or if you have limited time to eat a full meal. Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) : BCAAs can help preserve muscle mass and improve recovery. Consider taking them post-training or during Suhoor to support muscle repair. Sports drinks such as 100PLUS PRO also contain added BCAAs that can help facilitate muscle repair. Multivitamins : A daily multivitamin can help ensure you're getting essential micronutrients that may be lacking in your diet, especially since fasting limits the variety of foods consumed during the day. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Prioritise Recovery: Rest is Key While training is important, rest and recovery are equally crucial, particularly during fasting. Adequate sleep and recovery time allow your body to repair and rebuild, so you can train effectively the next day. Recovery Tips: Sleep : Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Quality rest is essential to recover from workouts and maintain energy levels during fasting. Active Recovery : On rest days or between intense workouts, consider light stretching, walking, or yoga to promote circulation and reduce muscle stiffness. Listen to Your Body: Adjust as Needed Training during Ramadan requires a higher level of self-awareness. If you feel fatigued or dehydrated, don’t push yourself too hard. It’s okay to adjust your training intensity or duration, especially if your body is showing signs of exhaustion or dehydration. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG In Conclusion Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, but for athletes, it can also be an opportunity to strengthen both body and mind. By optimising hydration, nutrition, training timing, and recovery, Muslim athletes can maintain peak performance while observing the fast. With the right approach, Ramadan doesn’t have to be a barrier to athletic success—rather, it can become a period of growth, balance, and resilience. Embrace the challenge, nourish your body wisely, and let this Ramadan be a time to push beyond limits, both spiritually and athletically. #NutritionTips #FuelingDuringRamadan

Hybrid athlete and running shoes connoisseur Samuel Chua is the lastest runner to join John Yeong on set as review marathon racing shoes for the upcoming TCS Sydney Marathon 2024, reviewing ASICS' latest CELEBRATION OF SPORT Collection PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG "Sole Mates" is a series made by runners created for runners, and a SportPlus.sg initiative to help you find the right running footwear for you and your runs. As part of this series, SportPlus.sg has teamed up with local running content creators, Key Opinion Leaders and athletes to have them share their thoughts on the latest running footwear. As a hybrid athlete and HYROX Singapore ambassador, Samuel Chua may be known as much for his lifts and sled pushes as he is for his passion in running shoes, and with the 26 year-old is looking forward to making his Sydney Marathon debut this year. But just what does Samuel look for in a good pair of marathon racing shoes?" asked host John Yeong , particularly if one is looking to run in this year's TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS ? PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG "Some of the main things I look out for in a marathon racing shoe firstly will be the upper and how breathable it is especially in humid conditions, as well as the lockdown of the upper. I would ensure that there are no hotspots for the shoes," shared Sam. "I would also be looking at the midsole, a combination of something with a carbon plate and a pliable midsole foam to ensure that the shoe itself has a dynamic response during the race." While durability isn't a huge factor since it’s a race shoe, Sam shares that outsole grip is particularly important for those tight corners and wet weather conditions. PHOTO: SPORTPLUS.SG Taking reference from ASICS' latest ' CELEBRATION OF SPORT ' collection , the duo compared three pairs of shoes from ASICS in particular that have been known to be used in international marathon races - the NOVABLAST™ 4 , MAGIC SPEED™ 4 and the hugely popular METASPEED™ PARIS series - METASPEED™ SKY PARIS and METASPEED™ EDGE PARIS . NOVABLAST™ 4 John Yeong, who ran the 2023 Sydney Marathon in a pair of NOVABLAST™ 3s, shared that while it isn't the most popular choice for a marathon among local runners given that it doesn't come with carbon plates, he felt the shoe is a comfortable choice especially if you aren't going for performance or timing. A sentiment which Samuel Chua concurred. "Runners who want to look at the NOVABLAST™ 4 as a race day option, are runners who would probably prioritise comfort. The upper is very padded, coupled with a thick midsole and a durable outsole. The NOVABLAST™ 4 is going to carry you through the marathon comfortably without you having to worry about whether the shoe is too stiff or if it's not comfortable and padded enough," said Samuel. The outsole of the NOVABLAST™ 4 comprises ASICS' proprietary FLYTEFOAM Blast+ Eco foam, and while it may not give you the propulsion that you see in some of the top end carbon plated super shoes, it still provides a decent amount of energy return, as compared to more cushioned softer shoes such as the GEL-NIMBUS™. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG MAGIC SPEED™ 4 Next looking at the newly released MAGIC SPEED™ 4 , the duo discussed the most prominent difference between the MAGIC SPEED™ 4 as compared to its earlier iterations - its stack height. Sam enthused, "The stack increased quite significantly. I believe its 43.5mm stack in the heel now and so with this, comes a very different ride, something that you expect closer to your marathon super shoes and your racing shoes compared to the MAGIC SPEED™ 3 . This would be a close training partner to your marathon races and you’ll be able to mimic the feel of races without compromising on durability as much." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG John then asked Samuel what kind of qualities he expects the MAGIC SPEED™ 4 to bring runners for their marathon training or in races, to which the hybrid athlete replied: " MAGIC SPEED™ 3 did offer a unique aspect in terms of its ability to perform during shorter intervals and track workouts but the MAGIC SPEED™ 4 comes more in line with a marathon racer — what would you would usually see more of in the past with the METASPEED™ SKY or METASPEED™ EDGE ." Chua added: "Even if you choose to take this out for a race, this will still give you an increased dynamic feel compared to the NOVABLAST™ 4 . You still have the carbon plate, a slightly different foam which may not offer you that much of a spring to you step but you definitely have much more durability from the outsole itself." METASPEED™ SKY vs METASPEED™ EDGE PARIS When it comes to the pinnacle of racing shoes - the METASPEED™ PARIS series, John and Samuel both agreed they are a significant upgrade to the previous METASPEED series of racing shoes. John shared: "One of the things we noticed between its predecessor and this series would be its comfort. I would say that while the predecessor did give us a very aggressive toe off which is fantastic for races up to half-marathons, if you were to wear them for much longer distances like a marathon, many runners have shared it became a bit of a problem in terms of comfort because it was quite stiff." PHOTO: ASICS "Over those longer distances, you will feel a lot after that. Whereas for the METASPEED™ PARIS series, I would say it’s a lot softer and a lot more forgiving without compromising too much on the toe off or the pop that you get from the previous edition." But how should one choose between the METASPEED™ SKY and the METASPEED™ EDGE PARIS? What exactly are the differences? Here, Samuel Chua attempts to debunk some common myths that have surrounded the choice of whether one should opt for the METASPEED™ SKY or the METASPEED™ EDGE. "I think many runners get confused by this but if you want to pick the EDGE, it’s for when you’re transitioning from your cruising speed to a faster pace and you notice your cadence increases together with your pace, then you should pick the EDGE." Runners who pick the SKY, based on how ASICS classifies it should be deemed as stride runners, meaning when you pick up the pace, your cadence stays relatively the same but your stride length increases." PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Common Misconceptions "I think the main misconception I see when runners pick the SKY or EDGE is they focus on whether their stride lengths are big or if they have a high cadence. One thing you should definitely take note of is when you want to choose the SKY or the EDGE, you need to see how your cadence or your stride corresponds to an increase in pace, not just at one particular pace." Yet to decide which pair of ASICS running shoes to go for, for this year's Sydney Marathon ? Here's a quick recap — if you’re going for comfort for marathon racing, you can consider the NOVABLAST™ 4. While it is non carbon plated, it does give you a very comfortable ride on race day and can definitely last the distance. If you are looking for speed and performance, the METASPEED™ PARIS series (SKY or EDGE) is definitely an upgrade worth considering from the previous edition of the series if you do not have budget constraints. If you want the best of both worlds, having the carbon plated experience but you’re kind of on a bit of a budget or it’s your first pair of carbon plated shoes, then you might wish to consider the MAGIC SPEED™ 4. To watch more episodes of "Sole Mates Podcast", visit our Watch page video library here . #SoleMates #SydneyMarathon #MakeSydneyAMajor #ASICSRunning

Paris bound Olympian Quah Jing Wen shares about how she started posting about her fashion tips on TikTok, what her most memorable moments have been representing Singapore on the biggest stage, and the secrets of her hydration regime PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Having qualified for her first Olympics at the World Championships in the Medley Relay, Quah Jing Wen is the youngest of three siblings in a swimming family that is synonymous with sporting excellence and the Olympics. Our SportPlus.sg team sat down with her behind the scenes at a recent shoot to find out what some of the most defining moments of her young career are, why she likes fashion so much, and the secrets of her hydration regime. What made you start your "Get Ready with Me" series on TikTok? Jing Wen : A lot of my content was gym and swimming and that kind of thing doesn't really interest me, I know it interests the general public, and like to see what I do in my daily life but because I do it like every day it's kind of boring to me and something that I don't do or get to do a lot is dress up. So one day I was just like I'm not sure what to wear and I always just love filming myself, and talking to myself and so I think it just came naturally. And I just have an affinity to fashion and trying out different styles and I do like editing those. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG What has been your most memorable moment representing Singapore? Jing Wen : I feel like this question is always asked a lot, and I can't really think of one particularly. I think a lot of people would assume it would be making the Olympics this year for the Medley Relay at the World Championships but when you ask that question I would always think about my first race at the SEA Games. It was 2015, I was swimming in the 400 Individual Medley, an event I don't swim anymore. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG I kind of went into the final not really expecting anything, I was in lane seven I think. It was right in this pool actually, and I don't know. I think that having no expectations and then turning that 100m breaststroke into the 100m freestyle and kind of seeing that I was like still in the mix of the race, it was exciting and touching and seeing that I finished third to make it to the podium it was such an incredible feeling. And that's almost a decade ago and I still remember it. And that's really the reason why I still swim, and why I swim in the first place. How important are Vitamins B3, B6, B12 and carbohydrates when fuelling your body? Jing Wen : To me I think it really is like a 50-50 balance, like your training can be at 100 per cent, and if your fueling is not 100 per cent, it's really not going to make any sense for performance. So I do think it's really very important to fuel while I'm practising, as well as before and after and it helps that 100PLUS Active tastes so good because I'm not a drinker during training, like I always feel very bloated but like sips in between the sets every now and then always help. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG How important is hydration for swimmers? Jing Wen : Swimming indoors and having a pretty cold pool like swimmers don't realise how much fluid they're losing and they're actually sweating in the water and like I said I was a pretty bad drinker when I was in college, and before that too I would like not drink at all during the two hours that we were swimming. So I do think it's very important to drink every now and then even if it's a sip, that's why like the electrolytes are so important right in the 100PLUS . It hydrates you more than just a sip of water, so definitely something that I think everyone should do while they're training. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG #QuahJingWen #SgSwimming #100PLUSSG #100PLUSActive