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Happening on 13 October, the Garmin Run Asia Series will debut in Singapore this weekend, with up to 5,000 runners expected to participate in the 9-country series event What is the Garmin Run Asia Series? The Garmin Run Asia Series is a running event series that takes place across various cities in Asia, organised by Garmin in collaboration with local partners. First beginning in 2022, the series started with three countries: Taiwan, Malaysia, and Thailand; before extending to Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Japan in 2023. This year the Garmin Run Asia Series arrives in Singapore, as part of three more countries to join the fray including the Philippines and Vietnam. The Garmin Run Asia Series Singapore leg will feature 10km and 21.1km race distances for runners, while other destinations offer a variety of race distances including 5K, 10K, and half marathons - catering to both casual runners and serious athletes alike. The series looks to promote health and fitness, and to engage the sporting community while brining participants together with opportunities to connect with other runners as a great way to explore different locations while participating in a popular sport. Just days away from the Garmin Run Singapore leg, SportPlus.sg spoke with Sheena Sim, Garmin Singapore and Malaysia's Marketing Team Lead on the purpose behind the Garmin Run Asia Series and what participants can expect and look forward to this weekend. 1. What sparked the desire to bring the Garmin Run Asia Series to Singapore? Sheena : The very first Garmin smartwatch developed was a Forerunner watch, and it was designed by one of our engineers who is a runner and Garmin has continued to pursue innovation to design smartwatches for runners, by runners. With the introduction of Garmin Run Asia Series since 2022, we've been able to take it a step further beyond Garmin’s products to bring runners in every city together to celebrate the love for running. From new runners to regular runners and competitive runners, Garmin hopes to unite runners across the region. Singapore has a growing community of runners and also has an excellent infrastructure for running. We want to introduce Garmin Run Asia Series to Singapore to bring runners in Singapore together and offer an event for runners to train for, and to participate across the region. 2. How long has Garmin Run Asia series been around for and many cities does the Garmin Run Asia Series span / comprise? Sheena : Garmin Run Asia Series started in 2022 in three countries – Taiwan, Malaysia and Thailand and we’ve seen great response from these cities. In 2023, for our Forerunner 20 th anniversary, Garmin expanded the series to include Indonesia, Hong Kong and Japan and this year, we’ve also debuted the series in Singapore, Philippines and Vietnam. 3. Which has traditionally been the most popular city of the series? Sheena : Malaysia has the highest participation rate in the series so far. 4. Outside of the main race categories, share with us something that not all Garmin Run participants are aware of about the Garmin Run Singapore? Sheena : This year, Garmin also introduced the Garmin Run Asia Series medal to encourage runners to participate in the runs in the entire Garmin Run Asia Series across 2022 to 2027 and they will get a customised 18K gold-plated medal. There is a line at the front of the Garmin Run Singapore singlet that is intentionally printed upside down. This is not a misprint. We have continued this as a tradition on our race apparel since we started in 2022. As a runner, sometimes you just need the extra motivation to keep running to cross the finish line. The “upside down” line is a message to runners – when they look down they see a motivational message to cheer them up – just by looking down. 5. What is the focus of the Garmin Run Asia series? Is it community? Performance runners or Garmin products? Sheena : Garmin Run Asia Series was created to bring runners of all levels together, in one single event in each country, ultimately, uniting runners across the Asia region. In the lead up to each Garmin Run in each country, there will be community runs, training clinics and training camps to offer runners a space to improve their running through incorporating Garmin’s science-based training data using our products. The end goal is to build a community where beginner runners can make friends, meet fellow runners, and also join a coach-led training program to learn to train more efficiently and effectively. At the same time, Garmin Singapore is also working with various partners like ASICS, Oakley, aminoVITAL to equip runners with the necessary information that they will need in their journey of running and participating in run events. 6. What are the participant numbers we are looking at across the different categories for this year? Sheena : We are looking at 3,000 21km runners and 2,000 10km runners for this year. 7. What can participants look forward to the most / or should keep an eye out for next weekend at the Garmin Singapore Run? Sheena : Participants can look forward to a scenic running route along the Singapore skyline, watching competitive runners vie for a podium spot, and various games and activities at the Garmin and partner booths. 8. How has Garmin been able to showcase technological integration into running and fitness at these events? Sheena : Through our 16-week training run programme created by Coach Feroz and Coach Man Yun, participants have been introduced to the Garmin technology and watch features. Together with our 21 pacers, participants get first-hand guidance on how to train better with a Garmin watch. #GarminRunAsiaSeries2024 #GarminSG #FromZeroToHero #BeatYesterday

Athletes and Coaches Review the Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour 2 AC and Dry Aeroflow, trusted products on their Tennis Journey While there are many attributes required for athletes to excel in tennis, having the right support system and equipment to support your journey goes a long way towards ensuring success - beyond the countless hours of training on the court. Here we explore not just the incredible athleticism and skill required to excel on the court, but also celebrate the stories of perseverance, passion, and the relentless pursuit of improvement that define this beloved game for four Mizuno tennis athletes: Singapore's rising star Allen Leong, and coaches Timothy Percival, Nino Salvador, and John Villa. But what do tennis athletes look for in a good pair of tennis shoes and tennis apparel when they train and compete? Well, SportPlus.sg sat down with the quartet to discuss their favourite features of the Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour 2 AC and Dry Aeroflow Performance Gear , staples of their tennis journey in 2024. Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour 2 AC Tennis Shoes To begin, a good pair of tennis shoes needs to enhance performance, comfort, and safety on the court. This was a sentiment echoed across all four athletes. "A tennis shoe should be light, so you can move around more freely. It shouldn't weigh you down, and when the shoe is comfortable it makes moving a lot easier," shared Allen, currently a year 3 student of MOE's integrated programme curriculum, and who has achieved a career high ranking of number 1 in STA Men's Advanced 2024 and is a ITF World Junior national athlete. A competitive tennis athlete with international experience on the junior tennis tour in the Asia Pacific, Allen has also claimed the Persatuan Johor Tennis U21 in May this year and the Asian Tennis Federation 14&U championship (2023) titles in a growing list of accolades. Beyond the weight of a shoe, support and grippiness also go a long way in determining how a tennis athlete performs on court, especially with the quick changes of direction. "My playing style when I was a competitive player was more of a retriever type player, I am more on baseline but if I have opportunities I will attack more on the net and I will play more on volleys," said Nino, who previously represented the Philippines in the Davis Cup from 2001 to 2003. "So most of the time I am at the baseline, as such I need shoes that support my playing style such as the Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour 2 AC. These shoes are versatile and really grip the surface well - I use them for my everyday coaching and playing, as it really grips well on a variety of surfaces - from synthetic clay carpet surfaces, to hard courts. Nino now coaches at Savitar Pte Ltd, Singapore American School and XCL World Academy among several others. Meanwhile John Villa, who hopes to share his knowledge and work as a professional tennis coach with others, previously reached an all time career men's ranking of 25 in the Philippines in 2004, and is now the peak performance coach in Ace Tennis Sports Academy. "I wore other tennis shoes previously, and it caused me discomfort on the outside of my feet. After switching to Wave Enforce Tour 2 AC it's a lot more comfortable for me, plus it's also a wider cut for me. It is also great that I can wear these for other similar sports such as Paddle, which I know for a fact I have other players and coaches asking me about these shoes and placing orders because of how it can be used across various surfaces," said John. Mizuno Dry Aeroflow Performance Gear Beyond tennis shoes, the right apparel can also help to keep an athlete's performance at the right levels even under hot and humid conditions. Comfort is once again at the forefront of the athlete's experience and Allen shares the most important feature he looks out for in his tennis apparel is breathability, and something he gets from the Dry Aeroflow Performance Gear, thanks to the Dry Aeroflow technology, a transformative advancement in sportswear designed to enhance comfort and endurance. "I feel that shirts should be airy, because when you are training you sweat a lot so if a shirt traps heat, you don't feel comfortable wearing it," said Allen. Timothy Percival, a former competitive player and coach, and a Managing and Tennis Director at Ace Tennis Sports Pte Ltd agrees. "This shirt I am wearing now is nice when you play tournaments, as it still feels light even if you are super sweaty after playing three sets," said Timothy. He added: "As a coach you not only need your apparel to be comfortable, it also needs to look presentable and neat which is what I get with Dry Aeroflow Performance Gear." For Nino, he likes how the shirt dries up quickly even in Southeast Asia's hot and humid climate. He shares: "I have worn Mizuno since 1997, and the material has always been very natural. It doesn't make you itch even when you play too much under the sun, it keeps you cool even in hot weather conditions. It really dries up right away, as compared to other shirts I've worn." Meanwhile, John Villa likes the aesthetics of the shirt as much as how easy it is to move in it with as little restrictions as possible. "I love the combination of colours, because when you play outdoors you can't just wear any kind of colour. It is also an image for me when I go condo to condo to teach tennis as it makes me more presentable. A nicely designed shirt is bound to grab attention," he said with a laugh. Key Highlights and Product Information MIZUNO WAVE ENFORCE TOUR 2 AC Comfort: The Wave Enforce Tour 2 AC shoes offer excellent comfort right out of the box. The cushioning is soft yet supportive, making them ideal for long matches. The interior lining is plush, reducing the risk of blisters. Support and Stability: These shoes feature a solid structure that provides great ankle support. The Wave technology in the sole helps in absorbing shock and enhances stability during lateral movements, which is crucial for tennis. Traction: The outsole is designed for both clay and hard courts, providing exceptional grip. Players can make quick cuts and sudden stops without slipping. Breathability: The upper is made with breathable materials, ensuring that your feet stay cool during intense matches. This is especially helpful in warmer conditions. Durability: The construction of the Wave Enforce Tour 2 AC is robust, designed to withstand the wear and tear of regular play. The rubber outsole is particularly durable. Technical Highlights MIZUNO ENERZY OUTSOLE: Versatile cushioning that maintains softness and responsiveness, boosting performance capabilities. MIZUNO ENERZY MIDSOLE: State-of-the-art midsole material offering unparalleled resilience and softness, enhancing comfort and dynamic performance. MIZUNO ENERZY INSOLE: A high-repulsion insole material, it delivers 20% more cushioning and 28% greater energy return, enhancing comfort and performance. MIZUNO WAVE®: Innovative plate technology that disperses impact energy, ensuring a stable platform with superior cushioning DYNA-HEEL LOCK LITE TECHNOLOGY: The precision-engineered upper adapts seamlessly to every movement, delivering a glove-like fit for unparalleled comfort and support. DRY AEROFLOW PERFORMANCE GEAR Material: The Dry Aeroflow fabric is lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for active sports. It wicks moisture effectively, keeping you dry even during the most intense workouts. Fit: The apparel is designed to offer a comfortable fit without being too loose or restrictive. The cuts are athletic, allowing for a full range of motion. Style: Available in various colors and designs, the Dry Aeroflow collection is stylish enough for both on-court performance and off-court wear. The modern aesthetic is appealing. Durability: The fabric holds up well after multiple washes, maintaining its shape and colour. It’s resistant to pilling, which is a plus for regular use. Key Innovations Enhanced Breathability: Specifically engineered to eliminate sweat film formation, "Dry Aeroflow" ensures superior air permeability, preventing uncomfortable garment temperature rise. Optimal Temperature Regulation: With its exceptional breathability, this material efficiently regulates body temperature, keeping athletes consistently cool and comfortable. Sticky-Free Comfort: Experience unprecedented comfort with Dry Aeroflow's innovation that prevents the sticky sensation caused by sweat accumulation, ensuring a distraction-free performance. Performance Optimisation: By facilitating efficient heat dissipation, Dry Aeroflow supports prolonged athletic performance, allowing athletes to maintain focus and take their game to new heights. State-of-the-Art Fabric Technology: Representing a breakthrough in sportswear, Dry Aeroflow is tailored to elevate both comfort and performance by tackling the challenges of perspiration. SportPlus.sg 's Conclusion Both the Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour 2 AC shoes and Dry Aeroflow Performance Gear stand out in their respective categories. The shoes provide excellent support and comfort, while the apparel ensures you stay cool and stylish on the court. Together, they make a great choice for any tennis player looking to enhance their game whether you are a beginner or a pro looking to take your tennis game to the next level. Looking to purchase the Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour 2 AC or Dry Aeroflow Racket Sports Apparel? You can do so either on Mizuno's official website at Mizuno.com or Lazada. #MizunoSG #MizunoTennis

Over 400 Singaporeans took to the streets of Sydney in the Sydney Marathon's biggest edition yet It was the biggest ever TCS Sydney Marathon Presented by ASICS , and a record number of Singaporeans were part of over 24,000 runners who flagged off at Miller Street in North Sydney. The city was in its final year as a candidate race to become an Abbot World Marathon Major, and will soon find out the results before the year's end. With the electrifying atmosphere that engulfed the capital of New South Wales on the morning of 15th September though, it's hard to imagine anything but a positive result. Despite its infamous elevations, tens of thousands of runners pound the streets each year. This time, plenty of records were broken. For one, men's elite winner, Brimin Kipkorir Misoi set a new Sydney Marathon Race Record of 2:06:18 - 45 seconds under the previous mark of 2:07:03 set by Moses Kibet in 2022. On the other end of the spectrum, 90-year-old Koichi Kitabatake from Japan, became the oldest participant to ever complete a marathon in Australia. Singapore saw its biggest number of Sydney Marathon participants ever, with a whopping 412 runners hitting the streets of Sydney. Want to relive the madness? Here are some highlights, told in pictures. Over the last eight months, Sportplus.sg featured one Sydney Marathon-bound runner per month as part of the 'Sydney Marathon Stories' series. Gavin Tan was our first, all the way back in February. The 45-year-old had overcome a recurring spinal injury, and conquered his first overseas race on Sunday at the Sydney Marathon. It had been sunny all week, but Sydney had other plans on race day. With temperatures as low as 10 degrees at 5am, wind chills turned participants to ice as they gathered in their starting pens. Jackets were shed and blankets thrown off as thousands flagged off at Miller Street. Armed with quirky signs and loudhailers, the stars by the start line were none other than the spectators. "You WANTED this!" "You! You look hot in those shorts!" "Run FASTER, you got this* name on bib *!" One of the best parts of the marathon is seeing some of the costumes people are willing to run in for four to seven hours. Will they commit? Will it come off after 5km? It's all a highly-anticipated affair. Here's part one. We're proud to announce that we saw this man cross the finish line in his dinosaur suit. What a guy, the commitment is off the roof. Part two — It's a Brazilian runner in a kangaroo suit. Need we say more? She even gained the attention of officials, as the emcee at the finish line anticipated her return. "We are currently waiting for a Brazilian woman in a kangaroo suit to come home, and we hear she should be coming in very soon," he announced to the crowd on the steps of the Sydney Opera House several times. And then there she was, in all her glory. The crowd then gave her the chorus of cheers she deserved. Terry and Amy Seow are both well loved members of the Singaporean running community and were our third feature in our Sydney Marathon Stories series. In the feature, Amy tells of how Terry takes pictures at every kilometre board. He's almost always seen recording his runs with his wife, capturing every memory together. He's so good at it, that he spotted us by the barricades before we could even spot them, and came over for a casual mid-marathon selfie. The two completed the marathon hand-in-hand with a time of 6:19. The route may be infamous for its hills and elevation, but the city makes up for it with its iconic landmarks. Here, runners pounded on George Street, by Darling Harbour with the Sydney Harbour Bridge now behind them. Closed to traffic only twice a year, once for New Year's Eve and once for the Sydney Marathon, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the highlights of the route. Several Singaporeans were spotted along George Street, with Helmi Mohammed being one of them. His excitement, which radiated from him, bounced off of the other runners as many others too spotted cameras and their loved ones lined along the route. With over 25km to go at this point and almost 15km done, the energy was palpable. Nothing gets you running more than the steady, electrifying and heart-pumping beat sound of drums beating. This band of percussionists had stationed themselves near the 15km point bright and early to cheer strangers on. The groove of the drums had not only pushed the runners to press on, but also brought business owners along the route out to cheer as well, and if that doesn't encapsulate the love a marathon can emanate, we're not sure what does. The day before the race, many who walked along the harbour pictured just how beautiful the finish line would be. 24 hours later, they crossed it. Emotions ran high at the finish line, as thousands upon thousands of people were welcomed home after a gruelling 42.195km to cheers from the crowd at the Sydney Opera House. Runners were of all walks of life and none thought they could do it at some point in their lives. Running for four to seven hours? "That's crazy." But they did it and they helped each other out along the way, no matter their age, nationality or gender. What's another 42.195km when you've done 1000km from Thailand to Singapore in 12 days? Natalie Dau set a Guiness World Record in June for the fastest crossing of the Malaysian Peninsula on foot, and on Sunday, achieved a new marathon personal best by a whopping six minutes. The ultramarathoner completed the Sydney Marathon in the World Age Group Championships category with a timing of 3:23. Whether it's at the start or end of a whole marathon, at the end of HYROX Singapore, or in any gruelling race or competition, Melissa Foo is almost always all smiles. Melissa crossed the finish line in 4 hours 17 minutes, and now shifts her focus to the Berlin Marathon in two weeks. Having suffered a torn ligament in her ankle only a week before the Sydney Marathon, Cheryl Tay was on the fence about whether to take to the course on Sunday morning. She decided the night before to walk the entire 42.195km and aimed to do it under the cut off time of seven hours. Driven by pure grit and determination, Cheryl held on to the 6:40 hour pace group she found at the 5km mark and together, they made it to the finish line in what was her "hardest earned medal." As if emotions weren't already high at the finish line, tears were shed as the Sydney Marathon began welcoming back some of its final runners on the course after seven hours. It didn't matter if you were an official, media, specator or a runner who had already finished. Seeing the pure the determination of these runners, and the love and support thousands of strangers had for them was a magical moment. The DJ knew what he was doing by playing Mr Brightside by The Killers. For more pictures, visit our gallery here . #SydneyMarathon   #MakeSydneyAMajor   #FeelNewSydney   #SGtoSydney

Many runners participated not only to challenge themselves but to raise awareness and funds for causes close to their hearts, showcasing the profound connection between running and its power to serve the community Cheers rang around Central Park as runners of the TCS New York City Marathon made their way down the final stretch towards the finishing line with arms aloft to complete an arduous and challenging course of the World Marathon Majors through the five boroughs and bridges of the city of New York. This year’s NYC Marathon was a showcase of the indomitable spirit of runners from around the world, uniting diverse communities in a shared celebration of athleticism, perseverance, and hope. Not only was it a test of physical and mental endurance, but it was also a poignant reminder of the resilience that defines the international sporting community. A Day of Triumph Starting on Staten Island, runners traversed the five boroughs, each step echoing the heartbeats of New York City - from the enthusiastic cheers in Staten Island to the vibrant energy of Harlem, the marathon transformed the streets into a tapestry of human stories. Local spectators, volunteer cheer squads, and community members created an electric atmosphere, reminding everyone that every mile is about more than just the race—it's about the journey and the connections forged along the way. Standout Performances from Elite Runners This year's elite runners brought their A-game, with standout performances that captivated millions - those present at the finish line and others watching on their screens around the globe. The NYC Marathon saw new winners in Abdi Nageeye and Sheila Chepkirui, who used strong kicks in the final mile to pull away from their nearest competitors. Nageeye, who became the first runner from the Netherlands to win the men’s race, was step-for-step with 2022 champion Evans Chebet before using a burst of speed heading into Central Park for the final time to come away with the win in 2 hours, 7 minutes, 39 seconds. Chebet finished 6 seconds behind. Both showcased not only their physical prowess but also the sheer will and determination that characterise elite marathon running. Their journeys to the finish line served as an inspiration for amateur runners and beginners, reinforcing the idea that dedication and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements. New Balance Singapore Joy The six runners representing the New Balance team from Singapore were all smiles as they crossed the finish line - a wave of emotions overcoming them with each step as they held their medals and poncho through the walk-off. "This was without a doubt the hardest marathon course I have done to date," said John Yeong, who completed his fourth marathon with a time of 3:48:25. "But despite the race not following my original game plan I am satisfied with the result." Seamus Chng, who completed his first full marathon with a sub-4 hour finish, was delighted that months of training and discipline paid off even if he struggled with cramps earlier than expected."My cramps came at 25km, and thereafter I had to manage the cramps which initially went away but came back again towards the end," he said. "But I am happy to be able to complete what I had set out to do." A Spirit of Inclusivity Beyond the runners from Singapore, NYC Marathon has long been a beacon of inclusivity, and this year was no different. With a record number of participants from diverse backgrounds and abilities, the event emphasised that running is truly for everyone, and that so long as you have courage to run your way, no one can stop you from achieving your dreams. Looking Ahead As the 2024 TCS NYC Marathon comes to a close, it leaves behind a legacy of inspiration and connection for those involved in this year’s race. Each runner’s story adds to the rich tapestry of the prestigious event, reminding us that every finish line is just the beginning of a new journey. The enthusiasm from this year will undoubtedly fuel the ambitions of next year’s participants, who will lace up their shoes with dreams of crossing the same iconic finish line in 2025. #NewBalanceSG #TCSNYCMarathon #NewBalanceRunning

Spirits high for New Balance Singapore and Malaysia teams as 2024 TCS New York City Marathon race day nears The energy is palpable in the city of New York as excitement starts to build for the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon . Kicking off with the Race Expo by New Balance on Thursday 31 Oct, runners from New Balance Singapore and Malaysia were treated to a vibrant kickoff to an iconic event at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. This was swiftly followed by the conventional packet pick-up and race bib collection for race participants, with each runner issued their own race bibs ahead of the race. Runners from Singapore and Malaysia representing New Balance at this year's New York City Marathon were impressed with the magnitude and organisation of the event. Speaking with SportPlus.sg , co-founder of FFRC Dadima shared: "First time (for me) at a World Major race expo, so it's like so much larger and so many different merchandise. And then I think it's pretty cute because when you check out, and if you tell them it's your first race, they like cheer for you - the whole bunch of them with cow bells!" Echoing Dadima's sentiments, first time marathoner Seamus Chng described the entire atmostphere and race expo set-up as "Crazy, crazy, crazy!" Taking place from 31 October to 2 November, the expo was a hub of energy and proved to be a true highlight of the marathon weekend, offering an immersive experience for both participants and spectators. Attendees had the opportunity to dive into a wide array of experiences from exhibitors, showcasing the latest in running gear, nutrition, and technology - from the newest products, high-performance shoes and cutting-edge fitness trackers. There were also plenty of opportunities to score exclusive race merchandise, commemorative apparel, and gear perfect for training with New Balance. Education and Inspiration for Runners The expo wasn’t just about shopping too; proving to be a hub of education and inspiration with numerous workshops and talks featuring elite athletes and experienced coaches who provided valuable insights on training tips, race strategies, and recovery methods. This proved to be a gem for some of the newer runners and marathoners in our midst. Meet and Greet with New Balance Athletes Runners also had the chance to participate in a meet-and-greet session with some of the marathon's legends and New Balance’s elite athletes, making it a unique opportunity to connect with their idols. For first-time marathoners, the expo will offer essential resources, including expert advice on race day preparation, fueling strategies, and mental tips to tackle the 26.2 miles ahead. Veteran runners can find community support and share their experiences, creating an electrifying atmosphere that encapsulates the spirit of the marathon. As the countdown to race day continues, the expo is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the vibrant running culture of New York City. Whether you’re there to pick up your bib, explore new products, or simply soak in the excitement, the marathon expo is not to be missed. Come join the celebration and kick off your marathon experience in style! For first-time marathoners, the expo will offer essential resources, including expert advice on race day preparation, fueling strategies, and mental tips to tackle the 26.2 miles ahead. Veteran runners can find community support and share their experiences, creating an electrifying atmosphere that encapsulates the spirit of the marathon. As the countdown to race day continues, the expo is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the vibrant running culture of New York City. Whether you’re there to pick up your bib, explore new products, or simply soak in the excitement, the marathon expo is not to be missed. Come join the celebration and kick off your marathon experience in style! Shakeout Run On Saturday morning, the heart of New York City came alive at the New Balance x Endorphins Shakeout Run. This was more than just any warm-up; it was a celebration of the running community and an embodiment of New Balance’s ‘Run Your Way’ philosophy bringing together runners from all backgrounds to energise each other on the eve of race day, bringing together runners from all backgrounds to energise each other on the eve of race day. Setting a positive tone for the NYC Marathon, we witnessed veteran marathoners and runners tackling their first race fostering connections that extends beyond the starting line in a vibrant display of energy, encouragement, and plenty of high-fives as runners counted down to the marathon race day. Participants could also choose from various pace groups led by experienced runners and New Balance ambassadors, and received exclusive New Balance Gear: including a specially designed t-shirt to commemorate the event, before enjoying refreshments and engaging in fun activities. Tune in to Sportplus.sg instagram tomorrow as we bring you the latest updates from the TCS New York City Marathon race day as Team New Balance Singapore gets set to race in one of the most iconic marathons in the world! #TCSNYCMarathon #NewBalance #NewBalanceRunning #RunYourWay

Vanessa Lee defends elite women's title, as Goh Shing Ling and Rachel See complete podium in a competitive women's field Singapore, 27 October 2024 – Over 12,000 female runners turned up to Reach for Great at the 18th edition of the Great Eastern Women’s Run (GEWR) 2024 held at the Singapore Sports Hub this morning. This year’s race saw a record number of participants for the 2km “Mummy + Me” and 100m “Princess Dash” categories which were put together to encourage a healthy lifestyle through sports for young girls from the ages of three to 12. These categories were fully sold out with a total of over 2,800 runners, the highest number of participants since first introduced in 2017. The race was also fully subscribed across all other categories apart from the by-invite-only 21.1km local Elite half marathon and 5km run. The by-invite-only Elite 21.1km half marathon saw the return of previous years’ winners and participants. This year, Vanessa Lee  successfully defended her first-place title, finishing at 01:22:24 and beating last year’s timing. She was joined on the podium by Goh Shing Ling  and Rachel See  who came in second and third place respectively, with timings of 01:22:50 and 01:23:46. Speaking to SportPlus.sg , winner Vanessa shared: "There was a bit of a hiccup as the four of us in the lead pack were at the front, but suddenly we were overtaking the people behind us but the four of us in front were running the right route, as at 8km I was at 32 minutes so I a bit confusing but in the end glad it turned out well." "I am glad to be here honestly, Great Eastern Women's Run is something I look forward to every year. Because I get to see all these women that I only see once a year. Feeling great, just women here, great event." Runner-up Shing Ling, shared that she came out too fast and faded as the race wore on, but managed to surpass her original expectations when it came to her overall finish. This was the second time Shing Ling took part in the elite category of the Great Eastern Women's Run. Great Eastern successfully encouraged young girls to be active and experience the joys of exercising with their mothers by collaborating with Sanrio to feature its character Cinnamoroll as a special treat for participants of the 2km “Mummy + Me” and the 100m “Princess Dash” categories. Mothers and daughters bonded over fitness and fun, with exclusive GEWR and Cinnamoroll designed merchandise, including race T-shirts, bibs, and medals as their race entitlements. This year, Great Eastern, together with its employees, financial representatives and corporate partners, also fundraised a record $388,000 through the run with the proceeds going to the event’s two beneficiaries, Daughters Of Tomorrow (DOT) and the Singapore Cancer Society (SCS). Great Eastern has been supporting the social mobility of DOT women over the past three years as an enabler in their back to work journeys. Similarly, it has been working with SCS to support cancer survivors in their recovery journeys over the past two years. In a nod to GEWR’s integral role in uplifting female communities, run participants also included ladies from DOT, rehabilitation beneficiaries from SCS, and runners with special needs through the co-operative Runninghour. In the hot and humid conditions of the race, race participants were treated to ice cold drinks from FNN 100PLUS , providing essential electrolytes for thousands as the day wore on and the temperatures rose. Race finishers also had the chance to try out 100PLUS PRO High Protein at the race village, helping to boost their post run recoveries. Earlier in the day, this year’s Guest-of-Honour Mr Edwin Tong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Law, flagged off the 5km race with Mr Khor Hock Seng, Group Chief Executive Officer of Great Eastern, and presented the trophies and cash prizes to the race winners. Commenting on the event, Minister Tong said: “As Singapore’s only all-women's race, the Great Eastern Women’s Run is an important platform that brings women together to celebrate health, wellness, community and friendship. Over the years, the sense of solidarity and sisterhood fostered through the Run has built a strong community of runners. This is testament to how sports can connect communities, champion an active lifestyle and contribute to an inclusive society.” Khor Hock Seng, Group Chief Executive Officer, Great Eastern, said: “The Great Eastern Women’s Run is an ongoing celebration of female empowerment and female potential. True to our race slogan of ‘Start Strong, Finish Great’, more women are setting the bar higher by clocking longer distances, evident from our sold-out 10km and 21.1km categories. We are also proud to be the launchpad for younger runners and to shape their lifelong fitness journey towards great health, alongside generations of women who have grown up participating in the run.” “Through this year’s run, we have raised a record $388,000. We are very thankful for the strong and sustained support of our staff, financial representatives, corporate partners, elite athletes, and community runners. We are committed to creating a better, brighter and healthier future for women in Singapore through our fundraising efforts.” Participants were treated to a line-up of activities in the Race Village after their run. They refuelled with complimentary food and drinks and captured memories at the Instagrammable photo walls. The post-race powder rooms and massage zones provided a perfect escape for those seeking to relax and freshen up. The little ones were thrilled by the burst of sweet treats from the candy cannon and took joy in the inflatable obstacle course and craft activities. #GEWR2024 #ReachForGreat #Running

The NXL24 season reached its grand finale this past weekend, with the last tour taking place at CQ @ Clarke Quay on 5 and 6 October 2024 Marking the end of an exciting series across Capitaland malls, the final stop of the tour showcased intense competition, drawing local and international talent for a spectacular weekend of basketball. In the Elite Men's Open, team NTSC 1 emerged victorious. The team comprises elite players who have previously represented Singapore, including Lasar Rasic, the Head Coach of the Basketball Association of Singapore's 3x3 Team. Their experience and skill were on full display as they secured the top spot in a fierce competition. As winners of this tour, NTSC 1 walks away with SGD$1,000 cash as well as vouchers by official sponsor - ANTA The Elite Women's Open saw a remarkable debut by TAHO Story from the Philippines. Competing in their first-ever NXL tour, the team impressed with their performance and clinched the championship, bringing international energy to the event and further solidifying the NXL24 tour's reputation for attracting top talent from across the region. TAHO Story also walks away with SGD$1,000 cash as well as vouchers by official sponsor - ANTA.  The 2024 NXL Tour has been a resounding success, bringing communities together through the love of basketball across multiple locations in Singapore. From amateur players to seasoned athletes, each stop of the tour celebrated the sport, with CQ @ Clarke Quay being the perfect location to close out this exciting season.  As NXL24 draws the curtain on its 2024 season, we extend heartfelt congratulations to the champions and all participants for making this tour an unforgettable journey. The spirit of competition and camaraderie was evident throughout, and we look forward to welcoming more talent in future seasons.  #3x3 #NXL24 #SGBasketball

With the Great Eastern Women's Run 2024 on the horizon, Shazrina Shamsudin shares on having to defend her love for sport, and the recent shifts in the landscape for women in sport Having played sports her whole life, Shazrina Shamsudin knows all too well the misogyny that is present in the field. The 28-year-old has been exposed to dismissive comments since she was a swimmer in primary school and it hasn't stopped since, despite earning herself a personal training certificate two decades later. Her passion for sports seems destined to be dismissed as a joke forever—an unfortunate fate shared by many women. Back in school, swimming wasn’t the only sport Shazrina took part in. She joined the volleyball team in secondary school, before challenging herself and joining the women’s football team in Singapore Polytechnic. Shazrina began focusing on running this year, and is now set to take on the 10km run at the Great Eastern Women’s Run (GEWR) 2024 . As Singapore's only all-women race, GEWR has been empowering women for 18 years by providing a safe space for them to push their limits while championing women's causes . Although she has competed in male-dominated sports and values the drive and skills they require—beyond just physical strength—she has still experienced moments of feeling inferior to the men she shared those spaces with. “Admittedly, I wasn’t particularly good at football, and I sometimes felt a bit embarrassed when the women’s team had to train alongside the men’s team,” she recounted. “The same goes for working out at the gym. Many women feel self-conscious about lifting weights, worrying that the men around them might be watching. But honestly, that’s just a mental barrier. Every sport is for everyone and gender doesn’t define your strength or ability. When you're in the zone, you don’t think too much about it. I kept reminding myself that everyone’s too focused on their own thing to be paying attention to me.” From one woman in sport to another, Shazrina told of the types of comments she has received from her male peers over the years. Even as we laughed over our shared experiences, a subtle resentment lingered—resentment for having our love for the sport measured against a man's. “They often assume they know more about the sport, so when they hear that women like me have participated in something they’re passionate about, it feels like a personal insult to them. While I don’t claim to be a professional at the sport, I find their comments unnecessarily dismissive, and they often pass it off as a joke,” she shared. “The same attitude carries over to the gym. My male peers often assume they’re superior when it comes to working out, even though I hold a personal training certificate. This mentality feels outdated, and I believe men should be more open to the idea of women participating in traditionally male-dominated sports or activities.” As a Senior Digital writer at Her World Singapore, Shazrina is familiar with and has seen firsthand the impact that media coverage can have on women in sports. In June this year, Shazrina, like many others, had her eyes peeled to Natalie Dau’s record-breaking 1000km run from Hat Yai, Thailand to The Westin in Singapore and noted its importance in redefining femininity in sports. “In this digital age, we’re seeing more women take on more initiative in the sports scene and they are setting milestones for themselves which I find very admirable. Running a marathon is already an impressive feat itself, but having seen a woman chalk up to 1000km over the course of 12 days made me realise that everything is possible as long as you set your mind to it,” Shazrina explained. “We are witnessing a significant shift in the landscape of sports, with more opportunities for women of all ages to participate. With more media coverage of female athletes achieving remarkable milestones, for example, Shanti Pereira at the Olympics, the media has helped spotlight women in sports.” Looking ahead to her next challenge, the GEWR, Shazrina recalled the beginnings of her running journey and, well, why she runs despite not enjoying it all that much. “I’ve made it a point to push myself out of my comfort zone and I wanted to run further than the usual 2.4km runs I’ve always been accustomed to. So I thought instead of attempting a 5km run, I wanted to go a step further by joining the GEWR 10km run,” she shared. “Ultimately, it’s not about fierce competition or who crosses the finish line first. It’s about the shared experience of running together with other women and making lasting memories along the way. I see it as a celebration of community, empowerment, and the joy of movement, and that’s what makes GEWR so special.” Read up on more inspiring stories of women in sport and the Singapore sporting community in our features  section. #GEWR   #ReachforGreat   #GreatEasternSG

The Singapore Floorball League (SFL) Premier Division concluded its exhilarating 2024 season with dramatic finales in both the men’s and women’s division playoffs As Singapore’s top floorball competition, the SFL saw 14 men’s and 14 women’s teams battle over the course of five months for the coveted league titles. The top eight teams from each division advanced to an intense playoff series, culminating in the thrilling finals held today.  In the women's 3rd and 4th place playoff, LIITTO FC pulled off an upset victory against the heavily favored NUS Titans FC. After a 4-4 deadlock at the end of regulation time, LIITTO FC clinched the win in a nail-biting penalty shootout, emerging victorious 6-5. In the men’s equivalent, Wondersticks outlasted AINOS-NTN1 with a 5-3 win, securing the third spot in a keenly contested match.  The women’s final provided another dose of high drama as Wondersticks Ladies emerged champions after a fiercely fought contest with league season champions Cripz. Wondersticks Ladies claimed a 7-5 victory, turning the tables on the Cripz after their earlier 5-2 loss during the regular season. Cripz, were undefeated throughout the entire league season and the playoffs matches leading up to the finals. Player of the match Tiffany Ong from Wondersticks Ladies was elated with the victory, she said: “We came in with the clear mindset to win and the defeat earlier in the season against Cripz gave us a good wakeup call. Today, we were focused, and getting that early lead boosted our confidence. But credit to Cripz, they fought hard even when they were behind.”  The men’s final saw Orion Star make history by claiming their first-ever playoff championship in a thrilling contest against league winners Nemesis. After three periods of intense action left the teams deadlocked at 4-4, the match went into extra time. In the fifth minute of the 10-minute overtime period, Muhammad Fattah Bin Barin scored the decisive goal, securing a sudden-death 5-4 victory for Orion Star. This triumph was especially sweet, as Orion Star avenged their earlier 4-2 loss to Nemesis during the regular season, making their historic win all the more memorable.  The exciting conclusion of this year’s Singapore Floorball Premier League finals showcased the incredible skills and determination of our players, particularly the promising talents emerging from our youth programs. SFA President Ben Ow noted the high level of play on display, saying, "The talent and passion we’ve seen, especially from our younger players, are very encouraging and bode well for the future of Singapore floorball. With the strong support from our partners such as SportSG and the Singapore Sports Institute, we are focused on nurturing these athletes through our high-performance and youth development pathways, ensuring they are well-prepared to compete at the highest levels both regionally and internationally."  The SFL Premier Division continues to set the bar for competitive floorball in Singapore.  This year’s edition showcased both the depth of talent in the league and the ever-increasing popularity of the sport. With its intense matches and passionate fan support demonstrated by the strong turnout at the finals, the 2024 season will be remembered as one of the most exciting in SFL history. #SportPlusSG #SGFloorball

Bound for the Great Eastern Women's Run 2024, adidas Runners Crew Member Hailie Lim reflects on the inclusive and uplifting community created by the many women in Singapore's running scene Singapore’s running scene has long been considered as one that’s inclusive and safe for women from all walks of life, a fact that is often taken for granted. While running has traditionally been known as a male-dominant sport, there is a rise in the number of female runners taking on prominent roles amidst the countless running clubs hitting the streets every week. Hailie Lim is just one of many who has played a pivotal role in shaping perceptions of women in sport, and she is set to take on the 10KM race at this year’s Great Eastern Women’s Run (GEWR) 2024 on 27 October. The 31-year-old is a crew member of adidas Runners and also runs with T he High Panters , with other prominent female runners such as Sofie Chandra. As a woman in sport, it’s often easy to be overshadowed by the men. For Hailie however, having more women involved in Singapore’s running scene has proven to be beneficial and influential in her own running journey. “Being a woman in the running community feels empowering. It’s supportive and inspiring and brings about a strong sense of camaraderie,” shared Hailie. She added: “I mean, safety concerns do exist but I’m grateful our local running communities constantly uplift and celebrate one another, fostering growth and achievement. It’s a supportive space where women break barriers and share common goals.” To learn of Hailie’s first GEWR experience, we’d have to go back nine years. “I first joined Great Eastern Women's Run in 2015 because I thought the finisher tee looked cool,” she laughed. “After completing the run, I realized the atmosphere was so different. It made me feel confident knowing it was an all-women’s running event and I felt lifted by others with similar experiences and goals.” Back then, she only had two years of running under her belt. Hailie first started with 5km fun runs she joined only because of the hype the events created. Running then took a hold of her life and she soon began challenging herself to run longer distances. As a woman in sport, Hailie credits running for boosting her confidence. She now proudly holds her personal best of 42.195 km achieved at a World Marathon Major—the BMW Berlin Marathon she completed last year. “It revealed what my body is capable of. Pushing through pain, fatigue, and self-doubt, especially during tough runs or races has strengthened my mental resilience, which extends to other areas of life. It’s the idea that despite challenges or doubts, I trust that I have the strength and ability to succeed, just like other women who have overcome their own hurdles,” she explained. Women in Singapore's running scene have consistently accomplished remarkable feats, frequently traveling to overseas marathons and celebrating their personal bests together. Before she takes on the GEWR, Hailie and several other female runners will be part of a group from adidas Runners travelling to the United States to conquer the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. “The collective energy of a community like this can fuel personal goals, pushing everyone to reach new heights. It strengthens me to be surrounded by women with whom I can thrive with. It creates a deep sense of community where women can exchange stories, and celebrate their accomplishments, ” she gushed. Being Singapore’s sole women-only run, the GEWR is a one-of-a-kind race. It is especially popular with first-time female racers, drawn in by the strong sense of solidarity and sisterhood that radiates throughout the event. “GEWR emphasizes inclusivity and that’s what creates the safe space. They often highlight women’s health issues, celebrate female strength, and create a welcoming environment especially for beginners,” said Hailie. “The focus on shared challenges and encouragement can make the event feel less competitive and instead, elevating, compared to mixed-gender races.” After experiencing firsthand the communal support and love among women in Singapore's running scene, Hailie hopes more women will have the chance to discover the unique strength that only an all-women event can offer. “Joining this women-only running event offers a unique opportunity to challenge yourself amidst comfortably. It’s a fun way to stay motivated and engaged with your fitness goals while potentially making new like-minded friends. Also, it’s Singapore’s largest & iconic all-women’s running event!” Read up on more inspiring stories of women in sport and the Singapore sporting community in our features section. #GEWR #ReachforGreat #GreatEasternSG

What Does a Pacer Do in Running? We find out this and more from six Garmin Run Singapore pacers a week ahead of the inaugural race in Singapore From marathons to half-marathons and 10km races, pacers are often easily identifiable by their bright coloured shirts and balloons or signs indicating their target finish time, making it easy for runners to stay with them through the run course in a sea of runners. But just how easy or difficult is it to be a pacer, and what is a pacer's role in a given running event? Pacers often play a crucial role in marathons and running events by helping runners achieve their desired finish times. And for new runners who are participating in their first running event, or runners who are looking to are achieve a particular goal time but may not be as confident in doing so alone, pacers can be a god send. Some benefits of having a pacer include better motivation, with pacers providing the encouragement needed to push through tough stretches of the race; better accountability as knowing that a pacer is leading often helps runners stick to their race plan - hence the importance of good, responsible pacers who do not run faster or slower than they should is paramount; and generally providing guidance, support, and motivation to help runners achieve their personal goals. Making its debut in Singapore for the first time, Garmin Run Singapore organised a Garmin Run Club Training Camp for two and a half months, with training sessions open to all participants who signed up for the Garmin Singapore Run 21.1km or 10km races. This week, we turn the spotlight on six of this year's Garmin Run Singapore pacers to ask them what their experience has been like pacing others, making sacrifices to their social life and adjustments to their own training schedules to be a part of something special. Sharing that "community" is what stands out the most for him through his maiden pacing experience Delon Ho , 32, a freelance photographer who is pacing the 21.1km 2 hr 30 min group shared: "I never expected myself to be pacing, or to be leading others running." "This reminds me of myself one to two years back - if I were to join maybe I would have probably joined as a runner. It's really inspiring to see people of different fitness levels and goals in mind join us for weekly runs and through strangers we've become friends. Very heartwarming to see the community coming together." His sentiments were enchoed by fellow pacers Sarah and Eunice. Said Sarah Swee , a 36 year-old Operations Manager, who usually runs with Happy Pace Club and will be leading the 70 minute group for the 10km race category: "I think pacing is not just about the running, but also the social interaction and skills that come with it." "That was something that was a bit of a challenge for me when I said yes to this program. I really challenged myself to step out of my comfort zone and get to know and meet new people." "It has been interesting, challenging and a very rewarding experience. Seeing the whole community come together is something I really appreciate and didn't expect from this. I do recommend others to apply for this pacing programme in the future." Eunice Tan , 24, a marketing executive who is leading the 60 minute group for the 10km chimed in: "I've met many new people and heard about the cool things they do outside of running, their fitness goals, why they're running, what they've learnt from running themselves. It just changes my perspective of the running community in Singapore." Meanwhile Christine Fu , 37, Director Customer Relations who usually runs with Puma Nitro Run Club, expressed that she feels inspired and motivated by the commitment Garmin Training Camp participants have shown in the weeks leading up to this year's race. "For me it's really seeing all the runners showing up. People from all walks of life coming together being committed to the runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays," said Fu, who will be one of the pacers for the 21.1km half marathon 2 hour 15 minute group. "Showing up rain or shine, that's really motivating for me to see people wanting to become a better version of themselves." When asked about how pacing others differs from training for their own competitions, competitive runners Luah Jun Yang and Raymond Sng offered varying perspectives. "This training camp has helped us to look beyond ourselves, it's a different concept when it comes to helping others achieve their goals. When we are pacing, we have to adhere to certain goals that participants have set for themselves - and checking on them to see if they are okay etc. Just to ensure that they are progressively training in order to hit their goals," said Jun Yang, 25, a university student from NUS who will be pacing 10km participants for the 50min group. "This pacer training program has allowed us to train to control our effort levels to a much better degree because we know that we have to think about the training program in its entirety instead of it being a disjoint or a segmented training session," said Raymond, a 26 year-old software engineer leading the 21.1km half-marathon 1 hour 45 minute group. When asked what has been the most fulfilling moments of being a pacer, Raymond added. "One of the best things about being a pacer is that we can live life vicariously through our participants some of them haven't been running but really don't know what they can achieve." "But through the many sessions of trainings they go from being a couch potato to a really fit participant and you can see the genuine joy in their eyes." #GarminSG #GarminRunAsiaSeries2024 #FromZeroToHero #BeatYesterday

The brand-new Singapore football kits were unveiled at Weston Singapore's 313@Somerset outlet with players and fans in attendance SINGAPORE, 27 SEPTEMBER 2024 - Players from Singapore’s Men’s and Women’s National Teams were in attendance at the special launch event to reveal their latest uniforms to fans. Joining them were several winners of the #BeTheRoar contest on Instagram who scored exclusive invites to the event, allowing them an up close and personal look at the fresh threads modelled by Faris Ramli, Glenn Kweh, Ryhan Stewart, Farhanah Ruhaizat, Nurhidayu Naszri and Singapore Women’s National Team captain Rosnani Azman. The Lions will debut the latest jersey on their training tour of Japan from 5-15 October 2024 where Tsutomu Ogura’s charges will face three top-tier J-League sides as part of their preparations for the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup (AMEC) 2024 in December. The Singapore Women’s National Team will have the honour of being the first team to debut the new look at an international tournament. The Lionesses will don the colours at the ASEAN Women’s Championship 2025 Qualifiers that will take place in Laos in November. Women’s National Team skipper Rosnani said: “Being the first team to put on this jersey at a tournament is truly an honour that represents our hard work and dedication. We will wear it with pride in Laos and we hope to create many memorable moments wearing this new kit.” The 2024 home kit stands out with Nike’s bold Challenge Red colour embodying the tenacious Singaporean spirit. Chlorine Blue pierces through the side panels of the shirt representing Singapore’s identity as a small island nation relentless in her pursuit to make a global impact. The National Flag symbols – a white crescent moon and five white stars – adorn the nape of the shirt, evoking pride every time the Lions and Lionesses line up for the Majulah Singapura National Anthem before each game. Men’s National Team winger Faris said: “Personally, I am looking forward to the first time we hear the National Anthem in our new jerseys at the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup. It will be a moment that reminds us that we are playing for something much bigger. We want to represent Singapore and the fans to the best of our abilities and inspire the nation.” Embracing a modern sports identity, the 2024 away kit features a contemporary graphic inspired by Singapore’s ever-changing architectural landscape. Chlorine Blue and Marina colours capture the essence of the surrounding waters as a reminder of the continuous striving for excellence even when playing away from home. Lions defender Ryhan said: “The National Team shirt is a symbol of pride and identity. Not just for the football players but for anyone associated with Singapore. It’s become common to see our people wear the Singapore jersey outside the stadiums. You see Singaporeans rocking the kits abroad at international events and music festivals. With its striking colours, I’m sure we will see a lot more people wear the Singapore jerseys.” This is also the first Singapore jersey launch campaign involving players and fans. Alvin Tan was one of the first people to wear the new Singapore jersey back in August when he was invited to the secret promotional shoot. This is part of an FAS-wide move to deepen the relationship with Singapore fans, a move that has already seen National Team Head Coach Tsutomu Ogura invite some official fan groups in the fraternity to watch a senior Lions’ training session at the Kallang Football Hub in October. Fans can purchase both the new home and away Singapore National Team jerseys at the FAS Store and all Weston stores now. For the first time, youth-sized jerseys will be available, exclusively at Weston stores. #SGFootball #OneTeamOneDream #BeTheRoar