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Find out what these four captains of RUN PUMA CLUB have to say about the Singapore running community, and their roles as pacers for Singapore Runners Club PHOTO: GOLD COAST MARATHON RUN PUMA CLUB (RPCSG) may be the new running club on the block, but its captains are seasoned runners ready to level up your runs. RPCSG was officially launched on 27 May 2023 as a lifestyle running club to build a community of like-minded runners and provide a running environment that helps improve mental and physical wellbeing. The sessions are led by pacers from Singapore Runners Club . We meet four of the ten RUN PUMA CLUB captains, Rachel, Leo, Ze Yang and Katherleen, and find out more about the club, what motivates them and how you can be a part of the community and join them at their next session. Martin, Kim, Joseph, Butch, Fonny, Melissa make up the rest of the Run Club's captains. PHOTO: RUN PUMA CLUB Rachel Chua Fresh off setting a personal record at the Gold Coast Marathon in July, Rachel Chua is one of the captains of the RPCSG that organises and leads weekly sessions. Being her first race overseas, Rachel was surprised by how supportive the running and non-running community was. “The streets were lined with supporters holding sign boards and little kids handing out gummies and dried food to the participants. Strangers would call out your name and scream out words of encouragement to you, even more so if they saw that you were slowing down.” “As the race route cut into housing estates, there were families who prepared their own picnic by their lawns and played music to celebrate race day.” PHOTO: RUN PUMA CLUB As a RPCSG captain, responsibilities include designing the running plan for the month, deciding where the runs will be held, pacing the runs according to pace groups, ensuring the safety and well-being of runners during runs, facilitating warm ups and cool downs, and more. Rachel believes that running is a sport for everyone. “So long as you own a pair of running shoes, you are a runner!” “The above message is what I hope to impart to the running community. Being a RPCSG captain is also my way of giving back to the running community that has nurtured my passion for running.” PHOTO: RUN PUMA CLUB Leo Tan Leo Tan’s running journey has been far from smooth sailing with a shin injury, suspected slipped disc, and at one point being told by doctors that he should stop running. After coming back from a back injury in 2022, Leo set a goal to accomplish a half-marathon and did it. When running alone started to become mundane, Leo joined what would be his first of many sessions with a run club. “Joining multiple run club sessions made me love running in a community, and I was looking forward to running in a group all the time. I also loved to contribute to the group by helping to take photos for a few run sessions.” PHOTO: RUN PUMA CLUB “When I was offered to join RPCSG as a captain, I pounced on the opportunity. I want to make running a more inclusive and enjoyable activity for everyone, and to ultimately spread the joy of running with everyone.” While Leo’s role as a captain is mostly similar to Rachel’s, he is often spotted with a camera in hand taking photos of the run sessions and helps to create promo reels for social media. “Alongside my fellow captains, I hope that we can achieve an inclusive and welcoming community of passionate runners with a common goal or enjoying running and making running a staple in their lives.” PHOTO: RUN PUMA CLUB Lee Ze Yang Ze Yang is a RPCSG captain known for his fast pace on the road and podium finishes. Maintaining a fast pace on long runs can come as a struggle to many runners. To achieve this, Ze Yang includes interval training sessions and long runs with segments of race pace to his training plans. “I am a believer of the saying that if you want to run fast, then you have to train fast. I find interval training beneficial. Not only does it help condition the body to the pace that we will be racing at, it also provides psychological benefits,” he shared. Ze Yang recently went through a peroneal tendonitis injury in May this year and is making his way back to full fitness. With an intense running schedule, injuries could happen more often and are never easy to go through. PHOTO: STANDARD CHARTERED SINGAPORE MARATHON “I could not walk properly for nearly a week. I quickly accepted that I should not be running at all and replaced this with lower impact activities like swimming and biking in the gym to maintain my aerobic fitness.” He recovered from the injury after two weeks of no running. “I love training and exercising but right now, I also pay equal attention to my body to avoid overtraining and overuse of the muscles.” Through it all, Ze Yang’s self-discipline is what keeps him consistent as he feels that motivation can come and go. “Some days we have to lace up and head out to get the training done even when we don’t feel like doing it.” “Make running a habit and commit to the lifestyle.” PHOTO: RUN PUMA CLUB Katherleen Soh Multi-talented, Katherleen runs and trains in Muay Thai 4 times a week. Her weekday workout schedule begins with Muay Thai training at 7am before work and ends with a run in the evening after work. On weekends, she runs bright and early with her running groups and friends. But that’s not all. Katherleen also sets aside time to provide private training in Muay Thai for both kids and adults over the weekends after her morning runs. She also enjoys practicing Brazilian jiu-jitsu, freediving, mermaid swimming, leisure swimming and going to the gym for strength training. As a RPCSG captain, Katherleen hopes to empower more women to pick up running to benefit both their physical and mental well-being. PHOTO: RUN PUMA CLUB “I used to think that being a good runner was only about running fast, training with the best and achieving personal records.” “It was only after taking up the captain role that I discovered that the real beauty of being a good runner comes from self-control more than self-accomplishment.” “I am grateful for this learning journey as I feel a great sense of satisfaction helping others achieve their dreams.” Known for her outgoing personality and constantly rallying together various members of the running community, Katherleen hopes to see more running collaborations between different running groups to build a stronger community of like-minded people. How can you join? Anyone can join the RPCSG. The everyday runner, competitive runner, or beginner runner, there is a place for everyone. Run sessions are held in the evenings every Thursday, except on the last Saturday of each month. The club has 420 members and counting in their Telegram group and 30 - 50 runners joining sessions on a weekly basis. Sign up through the Eventbrite links to secure your slot. #SportPlusSG #Running #PumaSG

1000 km. 12 days. 2 full marathons a day. Thailand. Malaysia. Singapore. Natalie Dau. PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG On 25 May, Natalie Dau will be taking on her biggest challenge yet, an epic adventure to complete 1,000 km in 12 days. You may know her by her social media handle @rockstararms . Once again, Natalie is setting out to prove why she is just as her handle describes - a rockstar. It’s 4am and somewhere in Singapore, Natalie Dau is putting on the running attire and shoes she left out the night before and heading out for her first run of the day. This was Natalie’s routine for months leading up to Project 1000 . PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG When you are training to complete a 1000 km and have to clock in two long runs a day, four times a week, one would think that preparations the night before a training session would be focused on the complex. But regardless of the task ahead, simple things like eliminating the decision-making process and having things set out and ready the night before is key for Natalie. “No matter how many times you run, it still gets hard so I try to take this decision-making process out so that I get myself out the door. I never hit snooze. It's a non-negotiable. It’s up, out, let’s get this done.” “Then, coffee.” PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Running 1000 km is an illusive thought to most of us or as Natalie describes it herself, “a number so huge you can’t even fathom it.” When I first received the slides describing the run, purpose, and plan, I had to read it a second and then a third time to make sure I was reading it right. 1000 km. 12 days. 2 full marathons a day. Thailand. Malaysia. Singapore. Natalie Dau. PHOTO: NATALIEDAU.COM Who is Natalie Dau? Why 1000km? Those were the first two questions that came to mind. Natalie is the co-author of “Run Like a Woman” , a bestselling book on Amazon, and founder of the highly-successful Rockstar Fit App. She travels the world as a guest speaker for corporate clients or at retreats. In her spare time, she is an accomplished athlete having won 10 Ultra Races, represented Asia at the Spartan Race World Championships and has been on the podium for many events. The idea to run 1000 km first came about in August of 2023 when after a year of racing, Natalie was looking for a different challenge beyond a race start line. She wanted to do something with her running that would have a positive impact on other people. An idea that sparked from “I’ll just put on my shoes and off I go” soon evolved into a large-scale regional community event, with activities, partners and support throughout Thailand to Singapore. PHOTO: NATALIEDAU.COM Natalie will be contributing funds raised through Project 1000 to GRLS, a global charity and a part of Women Win, which works to elevate women and girls around the world through sport and exercise. With Project 1000, she hopes to empower females and ignite positive change through raising awareness of the gender gap in exercise and the challenges that many females face in prioritising exercise, including body image issues and fear of judgement. With a 15-year-old daughter, this holds even greater meaning for Natalie. Embarking on Project 1000 will be the longest time Natalie has ever been away from her daughter. If you follow Natalie’s social media accounts, you will see glimpses of their beautiful relationship. Natalie will also be running through her daughter’s school on the last day of Project 1000 in Singapore. PHOTO: NATALIEDAU.COM “She’s very proud. She’s a basketballer, so she doesn’t love running, but she has been joining me on my second runs a lot and sharing that has been super nice and special. She is hugely proud of me, which is lovely.” “As a female, I’m a massive believer in setting those boundaries that exercise is a time for me and is important for me and she respects that, and now she understands for herself that it’s important.” Natalie’s husband and daughter will be flying out to support her in Thailand and back in Singapore. Project 1000 will not only be a grueling physical game but an equally challenging mental one, this is when support will be crucial. “I definitely think that it’s going to come down to a mental game. Doing those double runs are preparing me to push myself. I usually listen to podcasts on my runs, but I've been doing my long runs with nothing playing just so I’m in my head the whole time and trying to train my mental side while I'm training my physical side.” PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG “It’s also about acknowledging, knowing and preparing that there are going to be ups and downs, and remembering why I’m doing it and what’s important.” Arthur Tong, founder of Elevate Performance Coaching will be accompanying Natalie on a bike throughout her 1000 km as her handler. Arthur will be providing support in areas such as fueling strategy, hydration needs, pace monitoring, and ensuring Natalie’s safety as he rides next to her allowing Natalie to zoom in only on running. There are so many ways in which you can join in and support Natalie and Project 1000. Donate to the cause, run alongside Natalie, cheer her on, or celebrate with her at The Westin Singapore Asia Square on Wednesday, 5 June as she crosses the finish line. The Singapore race route is available on the Project 1000 website. Don’t worry, the pace won’t be fast so everyone and anyone can join in. Running is always better with friends. PHOTO: NATALIEDAU.COM It’s easy to feel like athletes and changemakers live in a completely different realm. Then you speak to one and you realise that they struggle, have bad days and can also simply be motivated by that breakfast plate and coffee reward post workout. Their brave and extraordinary feats make us think like we could do something special too, or that we could and should at least try. So, who is Natalie Dau? Woman. Inspiration. Rockstar. Why 1000km? Because she can. #Project1000 #NatalieDau

Swapping the Coasts of Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore for the Philippines, Natalie Dau is set to embark on another instalment of Project 1000 in April 2025 PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG Natalie Dau , Singapore-based 11-time ultramarathon winner, has announced plans for a new 1000 km challenge to take place less than 12 months after the first one, in April of 2025.  Following completion of her Guinness World Record 1000 km run from Thailand to Singapore in June of 2024, Natalie has confirmed her plans to embark on another inspiring challenge, this time shifting the geography to a route in the Philippines and with an all-female support crew to join her. Natalie will commence the run in San Vincente on 21 April, and continue on a journey throughout Luzon, the biggest island in the Philippines, down the west coast and through Manila.  With collaboration from the Philippines Department of Tourism, the run will conclude on May 2. The solo run will again see Natalie run the remarkable equivalent of two marathons (42.195 km x 2) each day over the course of 12 days.   At 52 years, Natalie aims to demonstrate the power of ambition, empowerment and movement to unite people across cultures and communities, proving that age is no excuse not to follow your dreams. The introduction of an all-female support crew for the run in 2025, will see the consistent focus on inspiring young girls to reach their full potential. PHOTO: PROJECT 1000 “I’m thrilled to be kicking off a second round of the Project 1000 challenge.  As I set my sights on a new course to run, I truly hope that we can inspire more people to challenge themselves in a positive way.  Bringing awareness to issues facing girls and women around the world and the importance of physical activity is a cause that is so close to my heart and it continues to fuel my motivation,” says Natalie. At the heart of all that Natalie does, she also wants to shed light on causes that she feels strongly about, particularly empowering girls through movement and body image.  The run aims to raise funds in support of this, and Natalie will champion multiple charities both locally and internationally that align with her cause. This will include the Save the Children Girls Impact Fund and additional locally-based causes, and Natalie and her team will again conduct on-the-ground visits during the run to provide scholarships to local schools, orphanages, and shelters for abandoned women/children. PHOTO: PROJECT 1000 Lisa Aubrey, Director of Regional Fundraising at Save the Children UK says, “We’re incredibly grateful to Natalie for embarking on such a courageous journey in support of women and girls through the Girls’ Impact Fund. The money raised from Natalie’s extraordinary fundraising challenge will allow Save the Children to drive forward children’s rights and gender equality. We’re determined to help every child become who they want to be and by listening to girls about the challenges they face every day, we can work with them to make sure their needs are heard.” Project 1000 is made possible by supporting partners and organizations, and over the coming months, the Project 1000 team will welcome involvement from individuals and organizations who are interested to participate.

When diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer, sports and being a football coach was what drove her to beat one of life's biggest battles PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG It's 2016, and we're at the field at Temasek Polytechnic getting ready for football training. The team is joking around — as we always do — and lacing up our boots when someone glances toward the car park across the pitch. "Oh my god, it's Coach Nik," our teammate announces. And just like that, laughs of joy turn into nervous chuckles. We know what's about to happen — physical training madness. "You look familiar, were you part of my physical torture?" laughed Rohaidah Nasir , better known as Coach Eda now or Nikita to her football friends, when I had reconnected with her after eight years. Her training sessions were grueling back then, but they gave us treasured memories to laugh about now in adulthood. Coach Eda, who we called Coach Nik back then, was our most frightening coach, but also one of the most respected. Only she could get us to laugh instead of scowl by grinning at us sprawled on the floor before asking, "so, how was it?" after putting us through what was probably the most intense interval sessions in our young lives. That was, and still is the way she is now, despite the hardships thrown her way. Rohaidah was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) in October 2023. When she was told the news, her reaction — which bewildered her doctors — was the result of being self-reliant, guarded and a force of nature in sports her whole life. PHOTO VIA ROHAIDAH NASIR "Okay! What's the next step? How fast can I recover?" she asked her doctors and nurses nonchalantly. "I think it shocked my doctor because she didn’t expect that reaction. At that point, I didn’t realise the severity and how hard it was going to be at a later stage. I think to her, I was too positive." Rohaidah first felt a lump that was neither painful nor uncomfortable. When told she needed a biopsy, the unsuspecting fitness fanatic agreed on the condition that she could work out afterward, much to her doctor's surprise (again). The quiet nature of cancer is something she hopes people will truly recognise. " I was still able to run, jump, dive and kick around. It’s a silent killer. There were no symptoms. No pain. No other signs except for the lump. It was the aggressive, silent one that hits a lot of young women even in their 20s. It had nothing to do with my genes and it can happen to anyone," she desperately shared. PHOTO VIA ROHAIDAH NASIR Rohaidah has a plethora of roles in different sports to her name. She's not only a fitness, football and touch rugby coach, but also a FIFA referee and a personal trainer. The 41-year-old began her refereeing career in 2004 and had officiated as an assistant referee at the 2018 Asian Games women's football finals. Coaching however, is her biggest love. In fact, it's her purpose. When asked about her biggest motivation during her recovery, the F17 Academy Coach answered without hesitation. " It’s passion. I miss socialising and I love kids. They bring that innocent smile without a care in the world. I want that. We all should not care about petty things, and just enjoy our lives like these kids do." " Coaching football not only imparts knowledge but also builds character in the kids I teach. Most of the time my kids are full of mischief but they're just adorable. It brings smiles at the end of the day but most importantly it teaches us to have lots of patience," she added. PHOTO: F17 ACADEMY Initially diagnosed at stage one, doctors discovered that Rohaida's cancer had progressed to stage two during her eight hour mastectomy, resulting in her surgeons having to remove lymph nodes as well. Since then, she has had to sacrifice a large part of her sporting life. For Rohaidah, who grew up with sports, it was devastating. "I have dedicated my life and sacrificed so much for football. Football and running are forms of destress for me, my form of caffeine," she explained. " I kept myself positive, telling myself that I will be back. That's why I kept this diagnosis a secret from a lot of people. I only informed those related to my work where I am unable to perform anymore and that I will be away for quite some time," added Rohaidah, opening up about her difficulties with vulnerability. Only in September 2024, two months after completing all chemotherapy and radiation sessions, did she reveal publicly in an Instagram post of her diagnosis. "Since young, I was told to suck it in and that led to me building a wall, but I am grateful for some friends who know of my wall. They didn’t even ask, they just helped. I have kept this a secret for so long that I have finally realised, after being more focused spiritually, that it’s alright to be vulnerable," she said in her post. Sharing with us about her recovery, Rohaidah was honest in her struggles with vulnerability. PHOTO VIA ROHAIDAH NASIR "My recovery is much faster than most people I know. I have more energy but at times, I get too tired or my immune system crashes but nobody sees that. Everyone only sees that I seem to be back to normal. Although, that is what I want them to see so they don’t have to worry about me." As she went through chemotherapy every two weeks, Rohaidah was not one to sit still, to the concern of her close friends. She did some research on what were the best exercises she could manage and off she was. She walked everywhere . " Of course I got scolded for not sitting still. My friends called me stubborn and crazy, because I risked falling and falling during chemotherapy would have been dangerous. I tried to make it a point to walk a lot, even to the toilets, around the house and doing housework. Walking outside made me feel even better mentally," she recollected. "The first seven to 10 days of chemo were tough. Usually after the 10th day of chemotherapy, I would do squats on a chair, heel raises and lots of stretching especially my glutes and back. Even these were hard. "I had never felt so weak in my life. The hardest part was losing my hair, I never realised how much it meant to me. At that point, I didn’t know how to face the world and was always hiding." Now slowly making her way back to the life she once had, Rohaidah is once again back with her football family and coaching, having just travelled to Kuala Lumpur with her F17 Academy's girls team for a cross-border match. Her passion that got her through her toughest of times had waited for her return, and just by looking at her posts on social media, it's clear that her love and passion never wavered one bit.

Produced by SoccerBible, the documentary tells the story of the boot's beginnings and how it revolutionised the game Zinedine Zidane, in adidas Predator, scoring his iconic volley in the 2002 UEFA Champions League Final. In the 30th year of football’s most loved franchise, adidas has released the ‘Under The Tongue’ – a feature-length documentary exploring the seismic impact the boot franchise has had on the beautiful game, on and off the pitch. Produced in collaboration with SoccerBible, the hour-long documentary features the era-defining footballers that made Predator so iconic in its early years - including David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane, and Eniola Aluko – as well as current stars such as Jude Bellingham, Alessia Russo, Aitana Bonmatí and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who reflect on early memories and what it means to be part of the Predator family.  ‘Under The Tongue’ examines how a unique blend of industry-leading innovation, culture-defining design, unrivalled star power and timing all combined to create a boot that would fundamentally change the trajectory of the football boot industry and have a transformative impact on adidas as a business.  Transporting viewers back to the very origins of Predator, Craig Johnston - the man behind the initial idea of using rubber to create the now iconic Predator teeth on the boot’s upper – recounts the journey from his initial brainwave while coaching children’s football in Australia, through to finally seeing the boots on the feet of the world’s best players in 1994, before exploring the silhouette’s undeniable impact in the following 30 years.  The documentary also sees senior adidas executives, design team members and notable fans - including singer-songwriter and football fanatic Louis Tomlinson - recall their own experiences of Predator’s emergence. Nick Craggs, adidas Global Football General Manager said: “Predator changed the game. We know what it means to us all at adidas but as we come to the end of its 30th anniversary we felt it was fitting to hear from those that played such a crucial role in cementing its place in football culture. It has helped push the boundaries of innovation on the field of play and inspire millions off it – we now take it into the future and hopefully another 30 years of iconic moments with the world’s best players.” Featured in the documentary, James Collins was the first player to score a goal in the adidas Predator. Pete Martin, Creative Director at SoccerBible said: “The Predator is a boot with such a profound legacy that it was a real honor to have crafted ‘Under The Tongue’ alongside Keane Pearce Shaw. A boot with such personality too, not only does it mean so much to the culture of the game but it has been an unrivaled yet consistent giver of glory. There are few products on the planet that can, have or ever will, evoke such memories and feeling than that of the Predator. It’s almost immortal. That’s what we have tried to capture with this film - that powerful infatuation - a charming icon with bite, flair and beauty.” The documentary follows on from the recent launch of the latest Predator model. Crafted for goals, the design evokes the franchise’s rich heritage as it recreates iconic champagne colourways of the past, while introducing tech innovations that pave the way for the future of the boot in 2025. They are now available online on adidas and Weston Corporation .

The Lion City Sailors have become the first Singaporean side to advance out of the group stages of an AFC club competition since 2018 Jalan Besar Stadium erupted on Thursday evening as Lion City Sailors emerged victorious in a hard-fought 5-2 win over Port FC, becoming the first Singaporean side to ever reach the AFC Champions League (ACL) Two Round of 16. The Sailors needed a win to secure their spot in the knockouts, as a draw would have placed their fate in the hands of fellow Group F contenders Persib Bandung to beat Zhejiang Professional. It was hat-trick hero Song Ui-Yong, Shawal Anuar and Lennart Thy who bagged the five goals that booked the home team's side a date with history. It didn't take a long at all for The Sailors to set sail. Just 42 seconds after the first whistle blew, Song pounced on a loose ball lost amidst chaos in the penalty box for his first goal of the night. The first 45 minutes belonged to the home side who, for the most part, were the puppeteers of the game, controlling its direction. It all came to fruition in the 36th minute, when Maxime Lestienne's perfectly weighted cross found an onrushing Song. Needing no touches, the 31-year-old's right foot connected with the ball to make it 2-0. Despite a two-goal lead, an air of uncertainty lingered. After all, The Sailors and their fans had been here before, haunted by the memory of back-to-back ACL matches where 2-0 leads crumbled into heartbreaking defeats. And just like before, it all fell for The Sailors after Port FC's introduction of Teerasak Poeiphimai at half time. Just five minutes into the second half, Teerasak's one-touch pass into the path of Felipe Amorin set the latter off into space, before releasing a rocket too powerful for Izwan Mahbud. Two minutes later, Teerasak found Frans Putros lurking at the edge of the box. Putros' low-driven shot nestled into the bottom right corner, igniting jubilant celebrations from the Thai side and their visiting fans. Stunned, The Sailors had to find an answer. In the 67th minute, in a way footballers could only dream of, The Sailors found their much-needed redemption. Refusing to allow a three-peat of defeats after initially leading the game, Song completed his hat-trick with a bicycle kick helped on by Lestienne's cross once more. The crowd had been buzzing with energy all night, but in that moment, the sea of white and blue amongst the 2,357-strong crowd exploded like never before. As the screens repeatedly showcased Song's remarkable agility, the chorus of cheers for the Sailors' star of the night grew louder with every replay. And then, it happened. The Sailors' spark and confidence from the first half had returned, unmistakably evident for all to see. Shawal extended the lead four minutes later, as he tapped it into an empty net after going around an oncoming Port City custodian Chanin Sae-Ear. In similar fashion, substitute Lennart finished the game off with Sailors' fifth and final goal in the ninth minute of added time. With tickets to the knockout rounds now punched, The Sailors ended off the night in ecstatic celebrations shared with the home crowd after what was their last fixture of the year. The ACL Two Round of 16 is set to kick off in February 2025, where The Sailors could potentially face Sydney FC, Muangthong United or Nam Định FC, a fate they will only know of after 12th December's fixture draw. Here are more highlights of the 5-2 victory. After completing his hat-trick with a stunner and reinstating the team's lead, Song and his teammates celebrated with the bench, staff and fans – who had all but erupted at the sight of Song's bicycle kick goal. Singaporean Defender Irfan Fandi returned to home soil to take on The Sailors at Jalan Besar Stadium. The eldest Fandi brother could be heard on the pitch giving out commands to his backline, showcasing his experience and leadership as a center-back. He is set to miss the highly-anticipated ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup along with the other overseas-based Singaporeans, including his two younger brothers. Shawal contests for the ball with Asnawi Mangkualam, who was forced to take a chorus of boos from the home crowd every single time he touched the ball. Asnawi became Singapore's villain of the hour in 2021 after the nation's defeat to Indonesia in the 2020 AFF Suzuki Cup semi finals, where he infamously ran up to a devastated Faris Ramli to thank him for missing a penalty which would have won an eight-men Singapore side the game in added time. Clearly, it was not forgotten nor forgiven. Lennart rounding in added time before clinically netting the ball from a tight angle. It was Sailors' fifth and final goal. Song and Lestienne often paired up in attacking plays, directing off the ball movement of not only their teammates, but Port FC's as well. The Crew, equipped with snare and bass drums, made their voices loud and clear for a full 90 minutes. The atmosphere generated by the home fans was electric, and set the tone of the game's significance. #allhandsondeck #lioncitysailors #ACLTwo

Available in Weston Corp outlets, the new edition harks back to the heritage of the franchise’s past eras, while showcasing the latest in performance technology As the final instalment of its 30th anniversary adidas has released a new Predator pack, featuring a visual design that evokes the franchise’s heritage, alongside tech innovations that pave the way for the future of the boot in 2025 and support the modern goal scorer. The design is a tribute to the early 2000’s era of the franchise.  Fans of the 2002 Predator Mania will immediately recognise the boots’ champagne, red and black colourway, which has been given a fresh twist to suit the all-new upper silhouette. Red lines running along the medial and lateral sides of the boot behind the three stripes are a fond call back to the 1998 Predator Accelerator. Utilising feedback from consumers and adidas athletes, the new Predator has undergone a series of updates designed to give the wearer the utmost confidence in front of goal, as a precursor to an all-new Predator model set to land in January 2025. Crafted for goals, the boots feature the latest in adidas performance technology, including: CONTROLFRAME 2.0  –   lightweight soleplate and heel construction optimize traction for dynamic movement and stability when striking the ball. HYBRIDTOUCH 2.0  – a newly fine-tuned upper provides a moulded fit with cushioning in key contact areas for comfort and a soft touch on the ball. STRIKESKIN  – rubber fins with longer length and increased quantity, strategically placed in strike zones to support ball grip for precision shot-making.  The exact placement of the fins is inspired by the Predator Mania. STRETCHABLE LACELESS PRIMEKNIT COLLAR  – on the laceless version of the boot, allows for easy entry and secure lockdown. December marks the conclusion of the franchise’s 30th anniversary celebrations. 2024 has seen the return of the beloved fold over tongue, a giant leap forward in boot technology to support goal-scoring, and a series of limited-edition re-releases of classic Predators for the nostalgia junkies.  The new Predator is available to purchase  now in laced, laceless and foldover tongue versions, exclusively at Weston Corp .

National Championships: Soh Rui Yong and Rachel See emerge victorious as the men’s and women’s champions in the Marathon category; while in the Half Marathon, Shaun Goh and Vanessa Lee crossed the finish line first Singapore, 1 December 2024 – The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM) 2024 concluded the weekend with record participation, a new finish line and refreshed routes, setting new benchmarks for endurance races in the region. As the region’s only World Athletics Gold Label race, SCSM 2024 saw over 55,000 runners taking to the streets to take part in the races, with journeys culminating at the historic Anderson Bridge. This year’s turnout included close to 13,000 international participants from 84 countries, surpassing 2023’s numbers and further strengthening SCSM’s global presence. The sea of SCSM’s iconic green and blue running singlets saw runners across all categories transform the city into a lively celebration of athleticism, embodying the camaraderie of running. The half marathon’s 21.1km route offered a perfect balance between challenge and achievability, providing a rewarding experience for both seasoned and first-time runners. Marathon participants faced the ultimate endurance test with a 42.195km course that combined a robust and challenging run with stunning cityscapes and an electric atmosphere, bringing forth the SCSM spirit that encouraged runners to ‘Go Beyond’ and push their limits. The Ekiden race, a celebration of teamwork and camaraderie, made a welcome return at this year’s race. The group relay took participants past some of Singapore’s most recognisable landmarks including Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay and East Coast Park, among others. With four changeover zones and a spectacular finish at the historic Anderson Bridge, the race allowed spectators to experience the excitement of team-based competition, as participants shared the journey to cover the marathon distance with their teammates. Each runner received a curated race kit that included a race bib, SCSM running singlet, a runner’s gift, running sash, a finisher medal, and refreshments. The Ekiden runners also received a complimentary gear bag, along with unique Ekiden medals that symbolise teamwork and camaraderie – each of the five medals, featuring an iconic Singapore landmark, can be connected to form a single, cohesive piece. National Championship: Celebrating Singapore's Running Talent The National Championship also featured outstanding performances, with Soh Rui Yong and Rachel See claiming the Men’s and Women’s marathon titles, respectively, each taking home SGD $10,000. They finished with impressive times of 02:46.05 and 03:00.45 respectively. These victories highlight the depth of running talent in Singapore and reinforce the event’s role in fostering a vibrant local running community. Rachel is also the champion of the Singapore Women's Masters in the National Championship marathon category. Soh Rui Yong, 5 times male winner of the National Champ category for the full marathon said, “This year’s race was indeed a tougher race than last year especially with the refreshed routes along west coast highway and the Benjamin Sheares bridge. The heat and humidity also added to this. There was a close fight for the podium in the national championship category and it was good to have more competitive runners this year. But overall, I was very happy with the results.” Reflecting on her win, Rachel said, “This year’s run at SCSM 2024 felt more meaningful and fun. I approached the race with more consciousness and made it a point to opt for a slower pace to take in the scenery of the route. As I prepared, my daughter reminded me that each step is a step toward the finish line, and this was my motivation for the race. This race was about more than chasing a personal best; it was about being present, enjoying the journey and celebrating the process. SCSM 2024 was a truly fulfilling experience.” Commenting on the event, Mr Roy Teo, Chief of Industry Development, Technology and Innovation from Sport Singapore said, "The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon is more than an annual race to our local running community. This event reflects our community's passion for running and is one of the most iconic marquee events that unites runners, supporters, and volunteers to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and resilience." "This year’s record participation underscores the tremendous growth of sports in Singapore and solidifies SCSM's role as a cornerstone in the local and regional sporting calendar. Watching these elite athletes cross the finish line and push their limits is a true inspiration, reinforcing our commitment to nurturing a vibrant and inclusive sports culture in Singapore.” In the National Championship Half Marathon, Shaun Goh finished first with a time of 01:12.31. 2 times winner in the category, Shaun said, “It feels awesome to win for 2nd time, it was a better race this time round. I had the chance to experience it more fully, last year I was more focused on timing, but my pace was better today. It was harder this year coz the Benjamin Sheares bridge was a new addition to the course. Lucky that I still manage to achieve a good timing this year.” In the Women’s Half Marathon, Vanessa Lee claimed the National Championship title with a time of 01.24.17. 2 times winner in the Half Marathon women’s category and returning champion, Vanessa said, “I had a different plan this year from last year with the route being different. Up until 17km, everything was pretty good but afterwards it was a tough course, and not an easy race. But it’s the biggest running event of the year and it was fun! My friends who are not running stationed themselves so it was good to have them there to cheer me on!” Jeff Edwards, Managing Director of Asia for The IRONMAN Group said, “The success of this year's marathon is a testament to the incredible dedication and passion of the athletes and both the local and international running community. From the elite runners to those participating for a personal milestone, the event has once again proven to be a celebration of endurance, achievement, and the spirit of competition. We are thrilled to see the marathon continue to grow in significance, attracting talented athletes from around the world. We’re thrilled with this year’s success and can’t wait to take the event to an even higher level in 2025!” With high spirits and stories of resilience resonating throughout the city, SCSM 2024 leaves a legacy of community, endurance, and impactful memories. As SCSM 2024 drew to a close, participants shared their readiness for the next race, where all runners – from elite athletes to first-time marathoners - will once again unite to push their limits and experience the vibrant spirit of Singapore’s premier marathon. Gold Label Elite Marathon: A Triumph of Grit and Endurance In the Gold Label Elite Marathon, Geoffrey Yegon from Kenya claimed victory in the men’s category with a time of 02.16.06. Celebrating his victory, Geoffrey shared, “It feels very good to win. It’s my first time in Singapore and competing here. Coming from Kenya, the Singapore race was always “wow” so have been wanting to come here. Singapore is very nice, but it is very hot, so I trained very hard in Kenya to try to win the race.” In the women’s category, Fantu Zewude Jifar from Ethiopia emerged as the champion with a time of 02.39.04. Fantu kept it short and sweet sharing, “Happy to have won, Singapore is a beautiful country to race in. I’m not sure what I’ll do with the prize money, but I know I can’t wait to come back to Singapore.” Mr Patrick Lee, CEO, Singapore and ASEAN, Standard Chartered, added, “At Standard Chartered, we are proud to support an event that not only celebrates extraordinary talent and determination but also brings together people from all walks of life. This year’s marathon exemplifies the spirit of inclusivity, with elite runners, national champions, as well as everyday runners, individuals of different abilities, their caregivers, and our employee volunteers participating as one community. All these runners embody strength, focus, and resilience—qualities we hold dear and are thrilled to celebrate at this year’s marathon. “This year, we’ve also raised funds for our Futuremakers programme, which will help to empower young people with the skills and opportunities to build a better future. This is a powerful reminder of how sport can bring people together, break down barriers, and inspire positive change in our communities.” Ms Ong Ling Lee, Executive Director, Sports & Wellness of the Singapore Tourism Board, said, “The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon brings together athletes from around the world, showcasing Singapore as a premier destination for international sporting events. The event has grown from strength to strength, and it’s inspiring to see how more international runners are choosing to run the marathon in Singapore, a strong testament to the overall experience the event and what a visit here provides these participants. We look forward to welcoming even more enthusiasts to experience Singapore’s vibrant sports scene." Winners of the Gold Label Elite Marathon Men’s and Women’s categories took home prize money of USD $45,000 each. #SgMarathon #SCSM2024

We turn the spotlight on national duathlete Yong Man Yun, a two-time Southeast Asian Games Athlete who is also the head coach of Garmin Run Club Singapore, to find out how sports can build resilience in women and the importance of a support crew as an athlete In recent years, the landscape of sports and fitness has evolved significantly, with women taking centre stage in what was once a male-dominated arena. Podcasts have emerged as a powerful platform to amplify these voices, and to celebrate the achievement of women in sports, SportPlus.sg is pleased to provide a space for women to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Our new podcast series "Fit Talk" features two female SportPlus creators and hosts - Chermaine Zhou and Haw Jiaxuan - both of whom share a passion for running and fitness. Join them as we share the latest fitness trends, invite you on a wellness journey and chat up the coolest athletes from Singapore and the region. In the first episode of "Fit Talk", we turn the spotlight on national duathlete Yong Man Yun, a two-time Southeast Asian Games Athlete who is also the head coach of Garmin Run Club Singapore. We discuss the challenges of being an athlete in Singapore, juggling training with work, and how sport has a capacity to help women become more resilient overall, qualities that are transferable even outside the sporting arena. Sharing that she first stumbled into the sport of duathlon under the influence of another national athlete - Loh Guo Pei - before falling in love with the sport. Triathlon and Duathlon, a Form of Cross Training for Runners Man Yun also elaborated that contrary to popular belief, adding swimming and cycling is sometimes less taxing on the body. "As a pure runner we can sometimes clock up to 100km weeks - that is a lot of impact on the body. Now I run a lot less, perhaps 40-50 km a week, as I have swimming and cycling too in my training. But swimming to me is a form of recovery, and I cycle too and the impact is not there but the cardio is still there," says Man Yun. "But it is definitely very time consuming and also a very financially taxing to be training across three sports." Handling Pressure and Obstacles as an Athlete Host Jiaxuan asked: "What would be some of the biggest challenges you have faced as an athlete?" To which Man Yun replied that there isn't one particular thing but the stress and pressure that comes with performance at the highest level and juggling work and daily life is sometimes difficult to bear. "When I first started off as a national athlete I was given a new role at work, so that year was crazy and the learning curve was so steep." "How can athletes / runners overcome plateaus if they have stopped improving?," Jiaxuan added. "A change in environment can definitely help," said Man Yun. "I was stagnant in running - so the change helped. I changed the way I trained, I changed my coach. The programme was also different. And that actually helped me break a couple of my personal bests even though I was training less." Chermaine asked: "And what advice would you have for younger athletes or give to your younger self?" To which Man Yun said with a laugh, "When I started I was pretty old already." "Jokes aside though, the younger athletes now they should be true to themselves. About why they want to do personal sports. They shouldn't do it for someone else, for a brand, not your parents or boyfriend / girlfriend because the journey will be long, the journey will be hard. What you see on social media - all the happy stuff is just 40 to 50 per cent. So in order to survive and sustain in the longer run, you will have to remember your purpose." On the Importance of Support Crew to Avoid Burnout "I feel everyone should have friends outside of their sport. I am in triathlon but most of my friends are from other sports," said Man Yun. "We need support from our secondary school friends, uni friends, poly friends or whoever. It reaches a point where your support crew needs to be very strong - they don't have to be in the sport and don't have to know the sport at all. My group of girlfriends know nothing about triathlon at all but they are great and they keep me sane." Watch the full first episode of Fit Talk with Chermaine and JX, now available on sportplus.sg/watch/podcasts or listen to the full audio version now available on Spotify. #FitTalk #Podcast #WomenInSports

This week we venture into the less debated hot topic on dating tips for athletes and active individuals with Fit Talk Hosts Chermaine and JX In recent years, the landscape of sports and fitness has evolved significantly, with women taking centre stage in what was once a male-dominated arena. Podcasts have emerged as a powerful platform to amplify these voices, and to celebrate the achievement of women in sports, SportPlus.sg  is pleased to provide a space for women to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. In the second episode of "Fit Talk", SportPlus.sg hosts Haw Jiaxuan and Chermaine Zhou debate whether athletes and active individuals should date within the fitness scene or look for someone who have different interests and lifestyle. The topic of whether athletes have to date people within the fitness scene is an interesting one, and our podcast debate explored a variety of reasons - both the pros and the cons of dating someone within the fitness scene. There are a number of factors that could influence this idea, ranging from shared values and lifestyle compatibility to the pressures of public scrutiny and career demands. All the singles out in the working world can agree that it’s not easy out there. If you’ve graduated school — where you’re mixing with people of similar age and interests — how else are you going to meet somebody, let alone meet someone as into fitness as you? Is that even essential when the market is already so tough?  1. The Argument for Dating Within the Fitness Scene Shared Lifestyle and Priorities : Athletes and active individuals, especially those in competitive sports, have rigorous training schedules, specific diet plans, and a level of physical dedication that can be hard for someone outside the fitness scene to fully understand or appreciate. Partners who are also athletes or involved in the fitness world may have similar routines and goals, making it easier to support each other’s ambitions. Mutual Understanding : Relationships require a lot of time and energy, and for athletes and active individuals, that often means sacrificing personal time to train, recover, or compete. Being with someone who understands this and shares those same sacrifices can lead to a stronger, more harmonious relationship. Shared Social Circles and Support Systems : Whether you are a runner or fitness enthusiast, you will often interact with other fitness professionals, trainers, or coaches, and dating within this community may help them stay within a social circle where common interests can deepen. They also may have a stronger support network from people who understand the pressures of the athletic lifestyle. 2. The Argument Against Dating Only Within the Fitness Scene Diversity of Interests : Athletes are multifaceted individuals with interests outside of their sport or fitness. Limiting potential partners to those within the fitness community could mean missing out on someone who shares other passions or perspectives. A partner from outside the fitness scene might offer a fresh outlook or contribute to a more balanced life. Burnout and Overlap : If both partners are constantly immersed in the same fitness-focused world, it can lead to burnout, both individually and as a couple. It could become hard to maintain a healthy relationship if both parties are always talking about training, competitions, and recovery. Sometimes, a relationship with someone outside the fitness world can help provide a necessary escape. Avoiding Pressure or Comparison : Dating someone within the fitness scene could inadvertently lead to comparison, especially if one person is more successful or more focused on their fitness than the other. For some, this can create unnecessary pressure or make them feel insecure, and could even strain the relationship. 3. Media and Public Perception Athletes and active individuals, particularly those with a significant public following, may face extra pressure when it comes to their personal lives. Dating someone who is also a public figure in the fitness scene might provide some privacy or shared understanding of public scrutiny. However, it also opens up the possibility for unwanted attention, and fans might even take sides in the relationship. 4. Practical Considerations Time and Location : Many elite athletes travel frequently for overseas competitions or training camps. A partner who is also involved in fitness may be more flexible with their own schedule or may understand the need for long hours at the gym. Someone with a career or lifestyle outside of fitness may find it more difficult to coordinate time together. Longevity of the Relationship : While relationships between athletes in the same field may initially thrive due to mutual understanding, they might also face challenges down the line, especially as careers evolve or injuries happen. Having a partner who is also an athlete could mean both parties are grappling with the same difficulties, such as career-ending injuries or shifting career trajectories, while a partner outside the fitness world might offer a different perspective or different coping mechanisms. Jia Xuan’s Story Jia Xuan’s running journey began with the help of her boyfriend, who though responsible for turning her into a runner, is now second to JX when it comes to being a running and fitness junkie. “He’s my fitness influencer! I started running because I wanted to spend more time with him but now it’s reversed. I’m the one pulling him to all my events and telling him to go to the gym,” she says with a laugh. “There are pros for me!” What’s the general consensus? Both Jia Xuan and Chermaine took to Instagram to ask their followers the burning question — Would you want to date someone who’s also into fitness and does it have to be the same sport? Here are some of the answers they gathered. “I don’t mind but they still have to look fit.” “Looks aren’t everything and they don’t last!” Countered Jia Xuan. Jia Xuan, however, received a much more eye-catching answer from one of her followers: “No! It’s a space for you to have from each other and it sometimes gives you the alone time that you want. BEST NOT TO.” Jia Xuan then continued to read perhaps the most common response amongst not only hers, but Chermaine’s followers as well, and that’s that partners who are also into fitness will encourage a healthier lifestyle. “There’s a common goal and it’s good to work towards,” shared Jia Xuan. “It’s also healthy in a way. If you’re working out together, it can still be date night. You can look after yourself and spend time with your partner, it’s like killing two birds with one stone,” added Chermaine! “That’s the way to spend four hours with your partner. You do your long run then you eat together!” The Pros and Cons With both the hosts dating within the running scene, the duo highlight the most common point brought up amongst runners when it comes to dating — understanding one another. Both trained for and completed their first full marathons this year. While Jia Xuan conquered the Gold Coast Marathon, Chermaine tackled the Sydney Marathon two months later. The duo both had intense months of preparations including waking up at ungodly hours to complete their long runs before the sun came up.  “Training takes up a lot of time. Sometimes, it’s ungodly hours in the morning and sometimes it’s late into the night. So it’s about having a partner that understands you need this time to yourself and to train for a marathon. That’s what some of my followers maybe want to have in a partner.” “What if your partner isn’t into fitness and you need to train for a marathon? What would you say to a follower whose partner isn’t into it?” asks Chermaine. “I think it’s fine if they’re not into fitness as long as they understand what your goals are and what motivates you! Maybe they can turn up at your races, or cycle next to you as you run, this can be a small act of service!” On the topic of whether the couple needs to be into the same sport, Jia Xuan feels that it’s not necessary. Afterall, aspects of running can translate into other sports anyway, such as cross training. “Since Jia Xuan started with the pros, I’ll start with the cons,” smiles Chermaine shyly. “I think, especially if your partner is in the same sport as you, we might be very intertwined in many running activities. Everything is about running. So even when planning a holiday, it must revolve around running. Let’s say you’re training for a marathon, even for birthday holidays, we have to find a place that has a park where we can run.” To which Jia Xuan laughed sheepishly, recollecting a remark made by her partner once: “Why must we plan a holiday around your races!” Are running clubs the new Tinder? Upon seeing run clubs for singles pop up in America, Chermaine tossed the question over to Jia Xuan, “What do you think about run clubs meant for finding dates?” “I think it’s a good opportunity for you to meet runners but then again, if you’re not into running, and you start going to these run clubs just to meet a partner, some people might expect you to be into running. Your dates will include runs, which might not be who you are and what you’re actually interested in,” shared Jia Xuan. “That’s true, people might be tricked by it to be honest. But if you do go to the clubs, I hope that you do fall in love with running!” Chermaine agreed. For 26-year-old Jia Xuan, who graduated recently, many of her single peers no longer have the same opportunities to meet new people previously present by being in school. “When you’re in school, you meet people in your course, your CCAs but once you leave and enter the workforce, you won’t meet anyone new other than people in your office. So, run clubs can be a way to meet new people but maybe not just  to get a partner, make friends first!” #DatingAdvice #DatingTips #SgFitFam #SgFitness

Mark your calendars and experience New Balance's Grey Days with exclusive products from 14 - 17 May at ION Orchard SINGAPORE, 3 MAY 2024 – New Balance announces its multi-week celebration of Grey in May, spotlighting the new and classic expressions of the brand’s enduring legacy in its signature colour. In service of building a superior running shoe in the 1980s, New Balance introduced the colour Grey intentionally, a choice made with the same level of consideration as any performance feature.  In keeping with the fearlessly independent New Balance ethos, the colour Grey stood out amongst its competitors, while proving to be a perfect complement to the concrete and asphalt backdrop of urban road running. Before long, people noticed that Grey running shoes looked good anywhere. While the models have evolved over the years with ever changing technology and materials, Grey continues to embody New Balance’s timeless quality and style, in every form.  Step into the Grey: New Balance Grey Days Pop-up To celebrate this year’s Grey Days, New Balance enthusiasts are invited to dive into the world of New Balance at the Grey Days pop-up event, a unique celebration of the brand’s storied running culture and iconic grey palette. Situated in the vibrant heart of Singapore at ION Orchard (B4 ION Station), this pop-up transforms traditional retail into a dynamic multi-sport court, offering an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.  Taking place from 14 May - 17 May between 10am to 10pm, visitors will have the opportunity to explore items from the new Grey Days collection. This collection includes a range of footwear and apparel that embodies the versatility and timelessness of grey, reimagined through contemporary designs and cutting-edge technology.  Exclusive Grey Days product launches include:  May 10: The Grey Days collection will be available in New Balance stores and online at NewBalance.com.sg . The shop will feature both new and existing Grey styles from New Balance’s lifestyle, and kids ranges, including popular models like the 327, 574, 550, alongside a selection of timeless grey apparel. May 17: The launch of the ‘Grey Days’ WRPD Runner and 1906R. These special-edition designs feature material mixes and distressed details, inspired by the timelessness of stone.  May 20: The Fresh Foam X 1080 ‘Grey’ debuts. This shoe is designed with suede detailing and a classic, tonal grey colourway, providing a heritage-inspired take on New Balance’s pinnacle running shoe.  The complete Grey Days collection, ranging from footwear and apparel, will be available in stores and on newbalance.com.sg starting May 10, with prices ranging from S$55 - S$259. #GreyDays2024 #NBGreyDays #NewBalanceSG

Podium finishes for Singapore's Ng Xuan Jie, Rachel Hew and Ahmad Arif Ibrahim in Singapore Duathlon National Championships Singapore, 24 November 2024 – 19 year-old Singapore triathlete Ng Xuan Jie won the Women’s Category of the Singapore Duathlon National Championships yesterday, a continuation of the youngster's rise in prominence in Singapore's endurance sports scene. She was joined on the podium by fellow country woman Rachel Hew who clinched third. Speaking to SportPlus.sg , Xuan Jie expressed that her goal was to do better than before and was pleased to be able to do so. "This performance reassures my commitment and dedication for this sport and I'm even more motivated to train harder," she said. "I've had my learnings from this race and hope to continue taking home these invaluable lessons." She added, "I'm excited for the SEA Games in 2025 and will continue developing myself to become a better athlete on and off the field." "I can't wait for what 2025 has to offer but to close the 2024 season off, I would like to thank everyone who has been there to guide and support me along the way, as I couldn't have done it alone." In the men's category, Ahmad Arif Ibrahim  narrowly missed out on top spot by a second to Philippines' Raymond Torio, in what was a very competitive men's field. Said Arif after his race: "I had this race as my main goal for the second half of the year. However, a nasty lung infection in late August derailed by training for 6 weeks." "So I did what I could and just tried my best. I still managed to clock my fastest run for a second run in a duathlon, so overall I exceeded my expectations. This serves as a good confidence booster for the upcoming season, hopefully health and training stays on top and I can see the fruits from my training." "The overall plan is to first qualify and subsequently fight for a medal at next year's SEA Games, and at a more micro level there are some targets to hit for the running and biking next year." Held within closed roads in Singapore's city centre, the event brought together almost a thousand athletes for a thrilling multi-sport experience, featuring a rare bike-start, bike-finish format against the backdrop of Singapore’s skyline. The event wasn't just about the region's elite athletes either, with the Singapore Duathlon National Championship held in conjunction with the TriFactor Bike & CycleRun, in what was deemed as the grand finale to an eventful year for the TriFactor Asia Series which celebrates community, competition, and inclusivity. Growing the Sport in Singapore Held in partnership with the Triathlon Association of Singapore , this year’s event attracted 21 per cent of first-time participants, underlining the importance of creating platforms that encourage newcomers and experienced athletes alike to participate in endurance sports to help the scene grow. Unlike traditional duathlons that follow a run-bike-run format, the TriFactor Bike & CycleRun is one of the few events to feature a bike-start, bike-finish format, making it a distinctive challenge for athletes of all levels. The event saw athletes from 19 nationalities spanning across the globe in its participation, making it an international gathering of friends as participants hailed from Singapore, Japan, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, among others. Inclusive Format Worth noting is also the inclusive race format that was incorporated into the event - from a 5km cycling event and foldie rides to the traditional run-bike-run and the signature TriFactor Bike-Run-Bike format, as organisers looked to cater to athletes of all ages and abilities, earning its title as the most inclusive bike-run event in Asia. The event also spanned generations, with participants ranging from the youngest at 7 years old to the oldest at 65 years old, showcasing a remarkable age gap of nearly 60 years. For families like Tom Segboer and his three children, the event was a bonding opportunity. “We had so much fun. The routes were excellent, the race was well-organised, and it was a blast for both me and my kids!” he said. Standout Performances and Results The event showcased incredible athleticism across multiple categories, including a celebration of Singaporean and Filipino podium finishes in the National Duathlon Championship. Elite 49km Category Khoon Tong (Singapore): 1:09:30 – Champion William Mitchell (Singapore): 1:09:31 – 2nd Place Eamon Lim (Singapore): 1:09:37 – 3rd Place National Duathlon Championship Results Women’s Category Xuan Jie Ng (Singapore): 1:08:18 – 1st Place Sam Corpuz (Philippines): 1:09:00 – 2nd Place Rachel Hew (Singapore): 1:09:49 – 3rd Place Men’s Category Raymond Torio (Philippines): 58:17 – 1st Place Ahmad Aarif Ibrahim (Singapore): 58:18 – 2nd Place John Patric Ciron (Philippines): 58:19 – 3rd Place Mr. James Middleditch , Secretary General of Triathlon Association of Singapore, was enthusiastic with the outcome of the event, sharing: “Our collaboration with TriFactor Asia underscores our shared commitment to growing multi-sport participation. Seeing over 21% new participants in a multisport space is a testament to the success of our initiatives in making duathlons more accessible to all.” Elvin Ting, Founder and Managing Director, TriFactor Asia added: “As the final leg of the TriFactor Asia Series, this event exemplifies our vision of fostering fitness, community, and inclusivity. We’re thrilled to see such a strong turnout and enthusiastic participation, especially from first-time athletes.” #TrifactorAsia #NationalDuathlonChampionships #SgTriathlon #Duathlon