Search Results

National sprinter and 400m national record holder Zubin Muncherji shares about his hydration regime and why 100PLUS Active is better than water to keep you hydrated In this 100PLUS Active series, we ask Singapore athletes why it's important to stay hydrated while training or working out and find out what they do for their hydration regimes. Find out more about national sprinter and 400m national record holder Zubin Muncherji's hydration regime during his trainings and why he thinks staying hydrated is important for pre, during and post workout. How does 100PLUS Active make you feel after a gruelling workout? Zubin: So as an athlete, I think hydration is definitely key. You know you can only train as hard as you can recover. So the first thing, normally right after a hard workout I slam a whole can of 100PLUS just because you lose a lot of salt and electrolytes and simple sugars, which your body needs to recover as fast as possible. And the fact that it is super cold right after a gruelling workout in this Singapore weather is just fantastic. How important is it to stay hydrated as an athlete and how often do you rehydrate yourself? Zubin: Water is great but it's nothing without the electrolytes to go with it. Especially in terms of if you really want to really rehydrate yourselves fully. So for me I try to hydrate at least every one and a half to two hours just to have some water mixed with some form of electrolytes. I'll sip on it gradually and right after a hard workout I'll crush one whole can. Sometimes two, depends on how hot the day is. But you know especially with the B vitamins it has inside, it also energises me for the next upcoming sets as well. So besides keeping me hydrated, I'm also like very well fueled in the process as well. And that just keeps me from breaking down and having an awesome workout. How does 100PLUS Active differ from water in terms of hydration? Zubin: Number one, water doesn't taste as good. 100PLUS tastes fantastic, that's a big part of it. And I really believe if you like something of course, it's going to be easier to adhere and stick to like your hydration routine. Number two, water doesn't have all the electrolytes that you need to completely stay hydrated. 100PLUS obviously provides all three of these things. All the electrolytes and B Vitamins to keep you hydrated, energised and also rejuvenated. So definitely better than water. How do you use 100PLUS Isotonic Powder for your overseas competitions? Zubin: So I normally have a bag dedicated to just my hydration stack. So I'll have some simple sugars in there, I'll have my 100PLUS electrolytes on the side as well. So I always keep at least 4-5 packets in between. I have them on me almost 24/7 because right now I am a full-time athlete so I do train multiple times a day and hydration is crucial. At which points in your training do you feel it is most crucial to hydrate? Zubin: So for me personally there is no one specific time to hydrate. I think before, during and after is like equally important. Of course after, you want to make sure you're getting the right nutrients for your body to adapt and recover to the really hard workouts. So if you're looking at it from that aspect, after is probably the most important but I also don't think you should lack on hydrating before or during so that you won't drop in performance. #100PLUSSG #100PLUSActive #OutdoYourself

Recreational Cyclist and content creator Tiffany Lau shares her hydration regime and how 100PLUS powers her weekly rides In this 100PLUS Active series, we ask Singapore athletes why it's important to stay hydrated while training or working out and find out what they do for their hydration regimes. Find out what Tiffany Lau, recreational cyclist and content creator, has to say about her favourite isotonic drink and how it plays an important part in her cycling journey. How do you feel when you drink 100PLUS Active after a gruelling workout? Tiffany: 100PLUS always makes me feel so refreshed after a hard ride, because Singapore's weather is so hot. So a cold 100PLUS after a ride makes me feel so good. How important is it to stay hydrated as an athlete? Tiffany: With Singapore's weather, it's constantly so hot and being on the bike it's important to stay hydrated all the time whether it's an easy or tough ride. So 100PLUS allows me to always stay hydrated on my rides. What is your hydration regime? Tiffany: Usually I will drink sips before I ride to the meeting point. Then during the rides I will drink 100PLUS as well. Maybe mid ride if it's a tough ride I will just top up my 100PLUS at 7-Eleven or any other drink store. How do the B Vitamins and carbohydrates in 100PLUS Active help in your training? Tiffany: It definitely helps because when you ride you sweat so much and you definitely your carbs to give you energy, so always stay hydrated so you won't get loss of energy when you're riding. How does drinking 100PLUS Active differ from just drinking water? Tiffany: Compared to drinking water it ensures I don't get dehydrated because I'm sweating so much I'm losing so much water and salt and everything. 100PLUS allows me to replenish and gives me enough energy to finish my ride. What are some hydration tips for cyclists? Tiffany: Always refuel and always drink while on the bike. Don't forget about hydration. I think that's very important. #100PLUSSG #100PLUSActive #OutdoYourself

The legendary pair of shoes delivers the adaptive stability runners expect from GEL-KAYANO but has been updated with advanced comfort to help you move your mind ASICS announces the launch of the GEL-KAYANO™ 31 shoe, the latest in what has long been one of ASICS’ most popular stability running shoe series. The optimized comfort has been achieved thanks to a refurbished upper enabling the latest model of GEL-KAYANO™ series to cuddle up to all runners. Succeeding the new approach for adaptive stability with premium comfort taken by ASICS in designing the shoe’s predecessor, the GEL-KAYANO™ 30 shoe, the shoe will help runners of all abilities go further as they move their minds. Following the ASICS Design Philosophy of continuous small improvements to create products that feel best for both body and mind, the shoe’s asymmetrical medial design upper has been refurbished to create a supportive fit and a more comfortable feel. The mesh upper has also been designed to provide better ventilation, ensuring the feet stay cool over longer distances and improved flexibility so that runners get maximum comfort with every stride. Through updating the shoe’s outsole with a HYBRID ASICSGRIP™ rubber material, the GEL-KAYANO™ 31 shoe also helps provide better traction throughout your run, to strengthen the shoe’s stability. This combines with PureGEL™ technology delivers improved shock absorption and even smoother transitions, adding further protection. As with its landmark predecessor, the shoe benefits from unique 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ which – honed through user testing and research – works with the movement of the body to provide adaptive stability and comfort, cuddling up to all runners when they need it most. Junichiro Tateishi, General Manager of Product Function Research Department, at ASICS said: “We believe the GEL-KAYANO™ 31 shoe not only provides the stability the shoe is famous for, but also delivers a truly impressive level of comfort to help runners go further. We are also proud that GEL-KAYANO™ 31 shoe continues to display its CO2e emissions, printed on its insole as 10.6kg per pair, which shows ASICS’ ongoing commitment to transparency regarding the CO2e emissions, so that runners can feel confident about their choices of GEL-KAYANO™ 31 shoe. The GEL-KAYANO™ is a legendary running shoe for a reason, and we’re excited to see how fans of the series enjoy this added comfort when they try the shoe. Our hope is that it helps everyone feel comfortable, confident and uplifted.” The GEL-KAYANO™ 31 shoe will be available for men and women from ASICS retail, online stores and specialists running outlets globally from June 1st, 2024, for $259. To find out more about the GEL-KAYANO™ 31 shoe and the latest technologies, please visit ASICS' website here. #ASICS

National triathlete Luke Chua shares useful tips with our readers on how to stay safe on the roads as we gear up to this year's OCBC Cycle With Singapore's biggest mass participation cycling event happening next week, we ask national triathlete and SEA Games medalist Luke Chua to share some tips for cyclists on road safety and also some of the must haves when you get on a bike. What are five tips you would share with beginner cyclists for OCBC Cycle? Luke: My first tip would be to get the right cycling attire. It's important to be wearing the right cycling attire because when you are riding it feels very different, and you would want to get cycling bib shorts too which has padding so that it is a more comfortable ride. Informatively, most bike saddles are designed to work with a chamois, which is the pad sewn into cycling shorts. The chamois supports our bone structure, provides cushioning in sensitive areas, and prevents friction that can cause chafing and saddle sores. Second tip I would give is to always check your tire pressure. You don't want to be going out with a flat. Third tip would be to know how to change a flat tire, because if you are out there alone and there is no one around you need to know how to change your own tire. And also always remember to bring a spare tube along. My fourth tip would be to know your cycling routes. Outside of the OCBC Cycle event, sometimes Singapore traffic can be confusing, and if you are traveling overseas even other countries' traffic could be confusing. So if you have a Garmin Cycling Computer, you can put it in your saved routes in your Garmin, and you are set to go. You can learn more about Garmin Cycling computers Edge 540 or Edge 840 in our article here. And a fifth tip would be to prepare for wet weather, because if you have your phone and it's wet and your phone can't function then that's too bad. So prepare for wet weather, bring extra plastic and bring shoe covers along. If not and you get into wet weather you can always try to find shelter. Singapore is not the most cyclist-friendly of cities, what are three useful things you would share with cyclists to teach them about safety? Luke: The first thing that Singapore cyclists can do is to always be aware of your surroundings. Cars come from every direction, be aware - always look around before you turn. If you are cycling with a group always notice where they are before you make any turns or stop at traffic lights. Secondly it would be to cycle with people. Because when you are cycling in a group it makes things safer - cars can see you, when you are cycling alone it's a bit hard. The third would be to always bring your lights along with you when you cycle because even during the day the blinking lights would help to get the driver's attention that "I am aware, please be aware of me." What's your favourite cycling route in Singapore and why? Luke: Singapore has a lot of great cycling routes to be honest, but my favourite one would be riding along Lornie Road at 4am in the morning with no cars and no traffic lights. You ride Lornie Road all the way down to Haw Par Villa and then you get onto West Coast Highway and head straight into the city and do a loop of East Coast before you head back home. To me that's the perfect loop because there is no traffic and you just keep going for miles. With OCBC Cycle coming soon, what would you say to those who have signed up for the event, and have you taken part in OCBC Cycle before? Luke: I haven't actually taken part in OCBC Cycle before, I've always wanted to. My dad has participated countless times and he has always wanted me to do it so I'm excited to do it for the first time this year. I would say for those who are doing the longer distances prep your food well, make sure you bring enough gels, food, isotonic drinks like 100PLUS for your ride. And stay safe on the roads! If someone wants to transition from a foldie to a proper road bike, would is the most important thing to take note of and what are some of the obvious differences? Luke: A road bike is much faster and is more aggressive in terms of turning, cornering and responsive compared to a foldable bike. Braking is also kind of different - some brakes are on the top and some are on the side so it affects your hand positioning - so it may require a bit of getting used to. #OCBCCycle #LetsGoCycle

Former Malaysian pro cyclist Mohd Hafidz Abd Hamid crowned the Specialized 140km Elite Men champion, defending champion Alicia Brittain (South Africa) retains her crown, winning the Specialized 140km Elite Women’s category Melaka, Malaysia - May 5, 2024 - Cycling enthusiasts from across the region converged in the historic city of Melaka today for the debut of L'Étape Melaka by Tour de France, marking the third consecutive year of the event's presence in Malaysia, as well as the newest location to host the prestigious event. Dubbed as "the World's Greatest Amateur Cycling Event,", L'Étape by Tour de France offers cyclists the opportunity to push their limits and motivate one another in a spirit reminiscent of the renowned Tour de France. Flagging off from The Sail Melaka, riders embarked on a picturesque journey that combines cycling with historical exploration. The 2024 L'Étape Melaka is more than just a cycling event; it's a cultural journey set against the vibrant heritage of Melaka. Presented as a sports tourism experience, it has consistently drawn many participants each year. The inaugural L'Étape Melaka by Tour de France saw a significant turnout, drawing more than 3,350 participants including 90% from international and domestic riders from over 47 countries. This turnout not only reflects the rising popularity of cycling in Asia but also fosters camaraderie among cyclists from a variety of backgrounds. Cycling enthusiasts had the opportunity to experience the adrenaline rush of the Tour de France with 140km and 70km route options. These courses were approved by Tour de France experts to provide a challenge that appealed to both new and seasoned cyclists while traversing the landscapes of Melaka. Safety remained a top priority, with fully-closed roads, well-placed food and water stations, mechanical support, and fast-response medical aid ensuring a secure environment for all participants. The event's sanctioning by the Malaysia National Cycling Federation further underscored its commitment to safety and excellence. Nestled in the heart of Malaysia, Melaka provided the perfect backdrop for this immersive cultural experience. As cyclists crossed the finish line, they not only celebrated their physical achievements but also embraced the rich heritage of Melaka, making memories that will last a lifetime. Amongst the main highlights of L’Étape Melaka included the plethora of festival activities that enriched participants' interactions beyond the racecourse., including a lucky draw with over RM100,000 worth of prizes to be given away, including a Specialized Roubaix SL8 valued at RM27,000. Other activities include memorabilia display by Tour de France, pushbike competition, activation booths by sponsors and more. "We are thrilled to bring L'Étape by Tour de France to Melaka for the first time and during the Visit Melaka Year 2024," said a Riduwan Matni, Group CEO from Muse Group Asia, co-organizers of the event. "The enthusiasm shown by riders and spectators alike is a testament to the growing cycling community in Asia, and we look forward to further expanding the event's reach in the years to come." Among the highlights of the event was the Specialized Elite Wave, which featured an exclusive podium ceremony for the winners, adding an extra layer of prestige to the occasion. The male and female winners shared their experiences of the race, reflecting on the challenges they faced and the thrill of crossing the finish line. Former pro cyclist Mohd Hafidz Abd Halim, sprinting neck-to-neck with defending champion and former Olympian rower, Matthew Brittain, surged ahead to clinch the Specialized Elite Wave Men’s category championship said, “It was an unexpected win, and it was truly my lucky day. I took a gamble, gave it my all, pushing through to the finish line. There were moments I almost gave up but seeing an opportunity to secure the second place (safe choice), I persevered until the final kilometre, giving it my all in that last sprint. The course was undeniably tough, filled with challenging hills typical of Melaka. Despite modest preparations, luck was on my side, and I managed to endure to win.” Hailing from South Africa and currently based in Singapore, Alicia Brittain, the reigning champion for the Specialized Elite Wave Women’s category, radiated with enthusiasm as she shared her experience. “I’m feeling over the moon. Every race, you start from zero and you don’t have any expectations. I’m just very happy that everything went to plan. It was a safe race, and I was able to keep up and win the game. We had really good weather today. The rain cleared yesterday, so we had some nice temperature. The course was really flowy and fun; we had fast downhills, and the road quality was great. The closures really help, and we had enough marshals showing us where to go so, all in all, you can’t really go wrong. It was just so easy to navigate, as long as you move fast enough,” Alicia Brittain said with a grin, emphasizing the camaraderie among competitors. Ameline Tan, runner-up for the Women's Specialized Elite Wave added: "At the onset of the race, my primary focus was ensuring a safe and successful completion of the 140km. I was able to maneuver into advantageous position early on, and that enabled me to stay competitive throughout the race as I rode with the peloton." "Attaining the 1st Runner Up position on the podium came as a pleasant and somewhat unbelievable surprise. This was particularly unexpected given the cramps I endured throughout the ride, compounded by the presence of numerous formidable competitors in the race." "Reflecting on the experience, I am profoundly grateful for various factors. Firstly, the favorable weather conditions greatly contributed to the overall enjoyment of the event." "Additionally, the unwavering support and assistance provided by the marshals along the route were invaluable. Above all, I am deeply appreciative that no accidents occurred within my peloton, ensuring everyone's safety throughout the race." In addition to the exhilarating race experience, participants had the chance to win exclusive prizes, including a Roubaix SL8 valued at RM 27,000 in a lucky draw. L'Étape Melaka by Tour de France would not have been possible without the generous support of its sponsors and partners, including Sheng Tai and The Sail, Specialized, MyCEB, KBS, ChekHup, Zoot, Amino Vital, Prince Court, Birkin International Hotel, POS Malaysia, Grupetto, Propain, Shimano, Cyclomotion, Checkpoint Spot, Cowa, and Element X and Muse Group, who co-organized the event. As the curtains close on L'Étape Melaka by Tour de France 2024, cyclists and spectators alike are left with memories of an unforgettable journey through the historical beauty of Melaka, eagerly anticipating the next edition of this iconic event. For more information including the race routes, accommodation ideas, and other FAQs, you may visit: Official Website: https://melaka.letapebytourdefrance.com Official Facebook: www.facebook.com/letapemalaysia Official Instagram: www.instagram.com/letapemalaysia Official TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@letapemalaysia #LEtapeMYMelaka2024 #LEtapeMY2024 #LEtape #LEtapeMalaysia #LEtapeByTourDeFrance

New Zealand crowned women’s HSBC SVNS 2024 league winners with epic victory over Australia in Singapore final including a hattrick from Michaela Blyde, while Argentina win historic first men’s HSBC SVNS league title, becoming only the sixth nation to win the title Singapore, 5 May 2024 – History was made on a dazzling day of high drama, emotion and all action international rugby sevens at Singapore National Stadium. Argentina’s men claimed their first ever HSBC SVNS league winners title and New Zealand overcame arch rivals Argentina in an epic women’s final to win both the Singapore and SVNS League titles. New Zealand beat Ireland in the men’s final to clinch their second consecutive Singapore title. New Zealand came out 31-21 victors against Australia in a straight shootout to be crowned SVNS League Winners 2024 and the first ever women’s HSBC SVNS Singapore champions. In a thrilling conclusion to the tightest women’s series in history, it all came down to the very last game, contested by the two sides locked on 106 points each at the top of the standings. However, a depleted Australia could not reply to a ferocious Black Ferns Sevens performance, including a hat-trick from Michaela Blyde, their fourth successive tournament gold confirming their place at the top of the regular season standings. Hattrick hero Blyde said: “It means a lot! The beginning of the season was a little bit rocky for us, so we didn’t want to think too far ahead for this tournament but Singapore has just brought incredible vibes and to come away with the Singapore title and the league winners is really special. “We’ve just been taking it game by game, we wanted to make sure that we treated every game like it was our last and I think we did do that. There were some times when we were inconsistent and challenged but we were able to turn that around and gain the momentum back and to gain the six wins here. To sum it up, I’m really proud.” The final tournament of the regular season also brought confirmation of the final standings. France outshone Fiji for the bronze medal in Singapore to confirm third in the standings, and Great Britain secured eighth spot to fight it out in the Grand Final in Madrid, with Brazil joining Japan, South Africa and Spain to compete in the promotion-relegation tournament. The men’s regular HSBC SVNS season also concluded in Singapore after seven highly competitive rounds as New Zealand edged Ireland 17-14 to clinch the Singapore title and make it double delight for New Zealand on the day. Argentina had to dig deep and find a way to win 14-10 over South Africa in the fifth-place play-off, coming back from 10-0 down at the break to secure their first-ever HSBC SVNS series win. As Argentina’s celebrations began, it was the All Blacks Sevens who clinched the title in Singapore, defending their trophy from last year and taking their second consecutive gold after victory last time out in Hong Kong. It was an emotional moment when Argentina finally confirmed themselves as this season's League Winners, a last-minute winner from Tobias Wade under the posts confirming the title that looked so firmly in their grasp after three wins in the first four tournaments of the season, but became less certain after slip-ups in Los Angeles and Hong Kong. “It’s been such a long time. So many moments, good and bad,” reflected Argentina’s Gastón Revol, who debuted for his country back in 2009, on winning the SVNS title. “The journey was really difficult. We kept on trying, kept on training, kept on believing in this team and I think we have the prize that we deserve. “It’s incredible to be here at this moment. Here and in every other tournament at my age, I’m 37 years old and I’m still here with these guys, these great players.” Trailing South Africa at the break, Revol spoke of what it took for his team to come back for the victory. “This is our team – this is us,” he said. “In the difficult moments we get together and do things like winning the match. “[At half-time] one of the guys said in the [huddle] that we could, that we have to trust, and we did that,” he added. “We started to believe.” The race for the last Grand Final spot was eventually won by Great Britain after a 26-5 victory over Australia in the bronze medal match. USA had held off a French fightback to win 19-17 in the seventh-place play-off, but Great Britain’s win saw them clinch the eighth seeding and send the USA in to the promotion and relegation competition in Madrid. Great Britain men’s captain Robbie Fergusson said: “It’s not really sunk in to be honest! Seven points behind in the standings and I think everyone had written us off but to come out and play knockout rugby, from game two just to have a shot was unbelievable character from the boys and the resilience from us as a group to come together. “We’ve given ourselves a one-shot chance in Madrid and then we can press on and then it puts us in a good place for the Olympic qualifier in Monaco. There’s total belief between the 18 boys, the ones that are at home and couldn’t make this trip that are injured that are ready to come back in for the next one, and the boys that have slogged it out here for the last six games. It’s tough going on the body but these moments make it all worthwhile.” The new look HSBC SVNS 2024 featured seven regular season events in Dubai, Cape Town, Perth, Vancouver, Los Angeles, Hong Kong and Singapore, where the League Winners were decided, before the inaugural Grand Final in Madrid on 31 May to 2 June when the HSBC SVNS 2024 champions will be crowned in the winner takes-all event featuring the top eight teams from the regular season. The event in Madrid will also see the bottom four placed teams from HSBC SVNS 2024 compete with the top four teams from the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger 2024 in a new high stakes promotion and relegation competition. At the conclusion of the Singapore event the eight men’s and women’s teams who will contest the Grand Final are now confirmed. The men’s competition will involve Argentina, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, France, Fiji, South Africa and Great Britain, while the USA, Spain, Samoa and Canada will contest the promotion and relegation competition. The women’s Grand Final teams are New Zealand, Australia, France, USA, Canada, Fiji, Ireland and Great Britain, as Japan, Brazil, South Africa and Spain head into the promotion and relegation competition. For more pictures, visit out gallery here. #HSBCSVNS #HSBCSVNSSGP #Rugby

Satellite cities Singapore and Jakarta launch first overseas Sydney Marathon Run Club activations with less than five months to go to the 2024 Sydney Marathon 6 May 2024, Jakarta, Indonesia - Indonesia's running community are gearing up for the 2024 Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS, with less than five months to go to what is widely regarded as the running event of the year in the Southern hemisphere. Announcing last week that the full-marathon category has sold out with over 24,000 runners in the marathon field, organisers will be happy to learn that the event's presence in Southeast Asia is fast growing with Indonesia joining Singapore in launching its first run club activation over the weekend in Jakarta. Led by Indonesia's Friend of Sydney Marathon and triathlete Tono Raharja, founder of YukTravel, Sydney Marathon Run Club: Indonesia Chapter witnessed over 180 participants turn up for the run and sharing session at ZonaBlu - GBK, with the 10km car free day run followed by coffee and pastries and an in-depth Sydney Marathon sharing session. The marathon sharing was further enhanced with sharings from Destination New South Wales' Tan Siew Hoon, who showcased many of Sydney and New South Wales' attractions for runners who are looking to extend their stay after this year's Sydney Marathon. Speaking with SportPlus.sg, Pak Tono shared that he is excited to be heading back to Sydney Marathon again for a fourth time this year, this time joined by more runners from the Indonesian running community. "Indonesian runners like myself are incredibly excited to participate in the Sydney Marathon 2024! We're also strongly behind Sydney's bid to become the next World Marathon Major," he said. Tono's company Yuktravel will be leading a fantastic group of over 120 runners from Indonesia to take on this year's Sydney Marathon, a huge contingent who will also be experiencing a 5km shake-out run the day before the marathon and more. Said Tono: "We've secured convenient accommodation for everyone across four centrally-located hotels in the city center, making it easy to explore the city, attend the race expo, and enjoy pre and post-race shopping." "The day before the marathon, we'll be hosting a fun and social 5K+ shakeout run. We'll also share insights on the new Sydney Marathon 2024 course, capture a memorable group photo, and top it all off with a breakfast complete with exciting giveaways!" "We don't need to look beyond the Sydney Marathon – the Marathon here offers stunning scenery and the cheers of enthusiastic spectators to keep us going. Since I first joined back in 2017, I've witnessed the continuous improvements, and I'm incredibly excited to bring my fellow Indonesian marathon enthusiasts this year to support Sydney's bid to become the next World Major Marathon for 2025!" "This year promises to be the best yet, with a tenfold size increase in the starting area and exciting course adjustments. These include running through the Kensington area at the 20-kilometer mark, resulting in a flatter course with fewer U-turns. Most importantly, we'll only run one loop around Centennial Park," he chuckled. The Sydney Marathon Run Club is a series of activations involving run communities both within Sydney, Australia and abroad aimed at rallying run clubs from around the region to come together and get behind Sydney Marathon's bid in becoming the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major. Runners in Singapore can expect more details to come this week on the second activation in Singapore for Sydney Marathon Run Club: Singapore Chapter. Find out more about this year's Sydney Marathon course in our special feature here. To enjoy special discounts as a Sydney Marathon participant, visit our partners' page here. #SydneyMarathon #MakeSydneyAMajor

Along with six other teams including the men's squad, the Women's Open team is set to compete in their fifth consecutive Touch World Cup - and the challenges have only motivated them more A palpable buzz is once again sweeping through Singapore Sports Hub. The HSBC Rugby Sevens (HSBC SVNS) is set to take the Singapore National Stadium by storm once again - but this year will see even more excitement than before. With Singapore being the final stop in the tour this time, the winners of the men’s and women’s HSBCS SVNS league will be crowned under the lights of Singapore National Stadium. Rugby Sevens is a 7-a-side game and is just one of the many variants of rugby - which is also branched into rugby league and rugby union. One particular variant that stands out in Singapore however, is touch rugby. The game is not only popular amongst Singaporeans, but we also happen to be very good at it. So much so that Team Singapore’s touch rugby teams have regularly featured and medalled in the Touch World Cup - and they are bound for the world stage once again this year. The contingent will boast an impressive array of seven teams, encompassing not only the men’s and women’s open squads but also those of various age groups - which includes the men's 40s and 50s. Coming around every four years, the Singapore Touch Women’s Open team has been competing in the Federation of International Touch (FIIT) Touch World Cup since 2003 - and they have made it to at least the quarter finals every edition. In 2011 and 2015, they finally broke through to the podium, earning two consecutive bronze medals before falling short and finishing fourth in 2019. One of the most senior players on the team, Jazreel Tan has featured in all three world cups since their first medal in 2011. Looking ahead to the tournament in July, Jazreel is adamant on a good campaign despite a tough 2023. “We had plenty of defeats in 2023 and it was painful,” she reflects. “Nothing is guaranteed at a World Cup. I believe we want to be able to compete, like everyone else. Other teams are in good shape and we know that more is required from each of us to get to the next level.” In the run-up to the World Cup, Singapore played host to England Women’s Open and 27s in exhilarating friendly matches. Venturing overseas, they also took to Hong Kong and Australia - where they competed in the New South Wales State Championships. The young team honed their skills, solidified new positions, and fine-tuned strategic maneuvers. Jazreel has described the lead up to the tournament as one of the “most challenging campaigns on and off the field”, but to them, adversity was fuel. “The pressure has been immense. On the other hand, I have also seen how everyone came together collectively to want to overcome these hurdles,” she explains. “As cliche as it sounds, I think the best part of the journey is the journey itself! Every up and down has brought out the worst and also the best in me. It’s been trying times but I’m so grateful.” Not recognised as a National Sports Association (NSA), the team fundraised to send themselves up to Nottingham in the north of England. Their efforts included putting out a call for sponsors and designing tee shirts – which turned out to be a hit within the community. "The management and the girls have all made personal sacrifices and dedicated all the time we could possibly do to make sure we can hit top gear in July. It is heart warming when everyone comes together to help and support one another, working towards the same goal." With young blood coming in to replace retired veterans, teams are often revolving doors and it’s no different for the Women’s Open team. This year in particular, a string of young players have taken the step up, forming a younger team bound for the World Cup in July. “I have to say the team is pretty hardy and resilient despite the relatively younger team compared to previous campaigns. They've really come a long way in the past year and we know we just have to keep trying to reach our fullest potential,” Jazreel shares. She reflects on a mistake she made during her first year at the World Cup, a moment that still haunts her like a recurring nightmare. Yet, amidst the shadows of that memory, she clings dearly to the words of encouragement she received from the senior players at the time, a role she has since taken up. Having a safe space to learn from mistakes is something she hopes to pass down to the younger ones on the team as she reflects on her past few World Cup campaigns. “It’s a little poignant I guess. I look around now and I am no longer playing with the people that I started out the sport with, you know?” she says. “On the flip side, I am also excited for new and young players to be able to experience the sport at the highest level and I am grateful to be able to be part of the squad to help make that transition.” Set to take place during the height of an English summer in Nottingham, Singapore’s seven teams will take on giants such as Australia and New Zealand for the title of the best in the world. #twc2024 #HSBCSVNSSGP #HSBCSVNS #sgtouch #TouchWorldCup

Singapore footballer Danelle Tan wins Landesliga with Borussia Dortmund Women's Team, earning them a promotion to fourth-tier Westfalenliga of the German Football League next season Having already been promoted twice since their formation in 2021, Borussia Dortmund Women’s Team, otherwise known as BVB-Frauen, are another step closer to fulfilling their dreams of playing in the elite Frauen-Bundesliga. Throughout the team’s domination of the Landesliga this season, the fifth tier of women's German football, there was a constant in the starting lineup - Singapore’s very own Danelle Tan. Danelle, who also became a Team 100PLUS athlete this year, becomes the first Singaporean to win a football title in Europe. With her flurry of goal contributions, she takes us back to the very beginning in a preseason friendly against Alemannia Aachen as she picks out her most memorable goal of the season. “It was my first ever goal in the BVB jersey! There’s a picture of the exact moment. Looking back, I didn’t realise that the ball was actually behind me,” she shares. “My head was moving away from the goal but I twisted it towards the direction of the goal, trying to direct the ball in. It’s a really epic picture.” After originally committing to the College of William and Mary to pursue an NCAA Division 1 career, the forward swapped the life of a college athlete for the famous black and yellow shirt, making her the first Asian to play with BVB-Frauen. Fast forward nine months later, the 19-year-old stands in front of the esteemed Yellow Wall at Signal Iduna Park, celebrating the title with over 80,000 fans. “It was just an amazing feeling,” she gushes. “Stepping onto the perfect grass at the Signal Iduna Park, one of Europe’s largest stadiums and one so wrapped in history. Then to celebrate and cheer with the famed Yellow Wall, it felt incredible. Hopefully, we’ll be playing in this stadium, with these fans cheering us on one day.” Though she claims it might be due to the recency effect, Danelle highlights the lead up to the title win as her most unforgettable part of the season. And why wouldn’t it be? Afterall, the young Singaporean was on a whirlwind path none of her countrywomen had taken before. The team secured their third straight title on 21st April with five games to go, after defeating Fortuna Freudenberg 2-0. Since then, the formidable side has gone on to secure their 19th win, this time against SF Sümmern. Part of the starting lineup, Danelle bagged her 14th goal and another two assists in 16 appearances after heading in the team’s second in a 6-0 win. Before the all-important fixture against Freudenburg, Danelle was forced to the sidelines for a few weeks with a minor hip injury. After scoring a hat-trick on her first game back, she then found herself playing in front of a 4,731 strong crowd at home the following week — not only a record attendance for BVB-Frauen, but also the highest-attended women’s football match in Germany that week. The week after? Promotion. “Changing room celebrations were cut short as everyone rushed to get changed and onto the team bus. We made it to the Signal Iduna Park slightly after kick off and then walked the field and celebrated in front of the Yellow Wall during halftime of the men’s game against Bayer Leverkusen,” Danelle recalls fondly. “It was a whirlwind of events but I would definitely consider it the best part of the whole season.” While they might have already claimed the title, the team shows no signs of letting up as they set their sights on yet another piece of silverware. “Winning the league was the main goal at the start of the season and it feels really nice to be able to near the end of the season with most of our goals met. We still have a cup final left so although we’ve already won the league, we are focused on finishing our season with the cup as well,” shares the forward. And even then, BVB-Frauen and Danelle will look to take Dortmund to where they truly belong – the Frauen Bundesliga, where they’ll take on the big dogs like two-time UEFA Women’s Champions League winners VfL Wolfsburg and rivals Bayern Munich. “There’s still a long way to go to reach our goals but we’ll take it step by step. Going up to the fourth tier is an important step in the right direction. Every year will present itself with different challenges but we’ll focus on ourselves and making sure we get the job done,” adds Danelle. The District Cup final, known as the Kreispokal, will take place on 1st May at Sportplatz Schiffhorst, where Danelle’s BVB-Frauen will take on SPVG Berghofen, 9.30pm SGT. To find out more on our Team 100PLUS athletes, visit here. #SingaporeFootball #WomensFootball #Team100PLUS

Singapore dominated the inaugural competition with the most number of podium finishes Singapore, 22 April 2024 – Singapore’s indoor skydivers clinched two World Cup golds and three Asian titles at the international competition held in Macau last week. The biennial 5th FAI World Cup of Indoor Skydiving (WCIS) was held from 16 - 22 April, with the inaugural FAI Asian Indoor Skydiving Championships and 3rd FAI European Indoor Skydiving Championships taking place concurrently – marking the first time a major indoor skydiving event was held in Asia. Over 200 athletes competed in the WCIS, and Singapore was represented in six of the seven categories on offer. The 21-strong Singapore contingent was the country’s biggest to date at an international event, and the athletes clinched a total of four WCIS medals (2 golds, 1 silver and 1 bronze) and six Asian Indoor Skydiving Championships medals (3 golds, 2 silvers and 1 bronze). Teenager Kai Minejima-Lee, making his first appearance in the Open category of the World Cup, won the Solo Freestyle (Open) title. The 15-year-old, who scored 71.7 points to top the field of 19, is the youngest World Cup champion for the Solo Freestyle (Open) category. He said: “I wanted to show the world the routine that showcased the culmination of the past 8 years of training. Competing against the athletes who have taught me so much and who I’ve looked up to for so long was daunting, but it only made me want to perform better.” Team-mate Tobias Chaloupka, who is an iFly Singapore instructor and representing Singapore, concluded his first World Cup with a sixth-placed finish in the WCIS and a silver medal in the Asian Indoor Skydiving Championships. Compatriot Isabelle Koh, competing in her second WCIS, won the Solo Freestyle (Junior) title after her score of 72.4 placed her ahead of 10 other competitors. The 16-year-old, who had exchanged the lead with Hungary’s Maté Feith twice throughout the rounds before pulling ahead in the fifth and final round, said: “I knew I had to deliver the flight of a lifetime to make up for the 0.5-point deficit going into the final round, but I was oddly calm and just wanted to fly and show my routine to the world." Isabelle, who was the 2022 World Cup champion in the Dynamic 4-Way (Junior) category, teamed up with Jordan Lee in the Dynamic 2-Way (Open) in this competition – the duo bagged a bronze medal in the WCIS and finished as the top Asians in the event. They were just ahead of fellow Singaporeans Vera Poh and Kai Minejima-Lee, who placed second in the Asian Indoor Skydiving Championships. Singapore was second in the Dynamic 4-Way (Open) category for WCIS, represented by Vera Poh, Kai Minejima-Lee, Choo Yi Xuan and Jordan Lee. One more bronze at the Asian Indoor Skydiving Championships was secured through the 4-Way Formation Skydiving (Female) team comprising Choo Yi Xuan, Shirley Ng, Shirley Wong and Sandy Wong. This is the first time that competitive indoor skydiver, Yi Xuan, is partnering with the rest of them whom have not participated in a major competition before. Team member Shirley Ng, 45, said: “I’m really happy that my team achieved a podium finish at the Asian Indoor Skydiving Championships despite it being the first competition for most of us. It was quite nerve-racking, seeing the very high standards from other participants, but we kept calm and took it as our training, and got into the flow quickly after the first day of competition." "It helped that we had a few days of training in the tunnel before the actual competition. We also had team huddles before each round of competition to psych ourselves up and cheer one another on – that kept our spirits high throughout the competition.” The athletes trained at indoor skydiving facility iFly Singapore in preparation for the competition, and iFly Singapore founder and CEO Lawrence Koh said: “Congratulations to the Singapore team for their wonderful achievements at the 5th FAI World Cup of Indoor Skydiving and 1st FAI Asian Indoor Skydiving Championships. Their accomplishments are testament to the hard work and training they have put in, and we are proud to have been able to support their preparations. We are also heartened by the introduction of the very first edition of the Asian Indoor Skydiving Championships at the WCIS. This reflects the sport’s growth in the region and beyond, and we hope our Singapore team’s performance continues to inspire more people to try their hand at indoor skydiving.” #FAIWorldCup #iFlySingapore

With years of experience, sports dietitian and The Nutbaker founder Ang Sin Hwee knows all the tips and tricks of making sure you get all the nutrients you need Keeping a healthy diet is easier said than done, even for seasoned athletes. Living in a country known for its heavy cuisine which is usually high in sugar and salt, it can be tough to root out what’s not good for the body but it isn’t impossible. Nutrition and maintaining an active lifestyle go hand in hand. Whether its vitamins, minerals, proteins or fibre, the body requires all sorts of nutrients to not only fuel performance but to also encourage recovery. Sports dietitian Ang Sin Hwee has fuelled Team Singapore athletes including former Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Champion, Loh Kean Yew and five-time Paralympic Gold Medallist Yip Pin Xiu. Having been involved in fuelling the best athletes at numerous Major Games such as the 2018 Commonwealth Games, 2017 and 2015 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games and even the 2016 Rio Paralympics, the dietitian has curated countless meals packed with all the needs of an athlete. Using her experience, she started The Nutbaker in March 2022, where she bakes clean and lean granola. Not only that, there’s also an abundance of delectable flavours. There's no doubt that she has witnessed athletes endure countless setbacks, only to rise stronger each time, pushing their bodies to the brink and beyond. Sin Hwee believes that if you’re going to push yourself in training, you need to show some love back to your body. “You can think of nutrition as fuel for your performance. If you’re spending time and effort in the gym or in your sport, why aren’t you doing the same for your meals and snacks to support your fitness goals?” she shared. “Not only does proper nutrition provide you with energy to perform, eating well also builds your immunity, minimising sick days so you can be present for most, if not all training sessions and competitions. By ensuring that you’re well fuelled for training sessions, you also reduce your injury risks.” When it comes to fuelling performance and recovery, how exactly can you take good care of your food intake while satisfying your taste buds? Sportplus.sg spoke with Sin Hwee to get the best tips from the best in the business. What are the essential nutrients for fuelling performance and how do they differ from those needed in recovery? They overlap. Carbs - main fuel source for exercise, especially at higher intensities. Consuming carbs for recovery will help top up your glycogen stores — which are utilised during exercise. Protein - consuming protein before a strength session will prime your muscles for growth. Protein for recovery helps repair damaged muscles and build muscle mass. Fluids and electrolytes - hydrating well before and during a workout will reduce your risk of dehydration while hydrating well post workout replenishes fluids lost during the session. Many athletes have to sacrifice unhealthy and popular foods when they’re training, how do you incorporate flavour and healthiness in your foods to help athletes when they are training for a competition? Experiment with herbs, spices, and different methods of cooking. Not a fan of veggies? Try roasted vegetables! My favourite combo is broccoli, mushrooms, and capsicums tossed in olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Roast in the oven at 200 degree celcius for 20 minutes and done! Simple, nutritious, and tasty. Chocolate fan? Studies have shown that 40g dark chocolate eaten on a regular basis can improve exercise performance. Is eating well important for mental health as well? For sure. Food is more than fuel. Food is culture, tradition, celebration, connection, and so much more. It brings people together, builds memories, and can provide you with pleasure, satisfaction and comfort. How does nutrient or vitamin intake differ from sport to sport? Depending on the physical and mental requirements of the sport, the nutrition needs will differ accordingly. For example, a badminton player will have higher carbohydrate requirements than a shooter. Overall, there is no one-size-fits-all nutrition plan. Depending on the individual’s needs, lifestyle, and preferences, a qualified sport dietitian can create an individualised nutrition plan to optimise your sporting performance. Keeping Recovery In Mind Commonly neglected, recovery is just as important as fuelling the body. Again, it’s always a matter of showing your body the love it deserves. What are some essential nutrients or vitamins for recovery? Think of the 4 Rs: 1. Refuel - Carbohydrates 2. Repair - Protein for muscle recovery 3. Rehydrate - Fluids and electrolytes 4. Revitalise - Antioxidants to protect the body against free radicals, which are produced during intense exercise. What ingredients provide these nutrients and vitamins above? Milk (or soy milk) contains the first 3 components. Pair that with a cup of berries or some >70% dark chocolate and you’ll have them all! What ingredients can be used to make healthy and recovery foods more appealing? If you don’t have an appetite after an intense exercise, drinking can be easier than eating. If you’re exercising in the heat, cold drinks or foods can be really enticing. Cold chocolate milk can be all you need after working out in the heat! How important is it to make sure your recovery meals are just as nutritious and beneficial as when you’re eating during a training block? Pre workout nutrition is important for performance, post workout nutrition is important for PROGRESS. Taking care of the 4Rs of recovery will help you optimise your training adaptations and ensure that you’re primed for the next training bout so you can train hard and perform well again and again. Eating healthy in Singapore What are some common misleading food labels? Beware of claims that sound too good to be true, especially on labels of sport supplements. Examples include "metabolism boost", "fat loss guarantee in xx days", "detox”, etc. Remember, there are no shortcuts when it comes to sustainable weight loss, and you don't need an expensive celery juice to help detox if you have a functioning liver. How are they dangerous for athletes or people hoping to lead a healthier lifestyle? The "miracle pill" effect. These emotive claims trick people into relying on supplements for a 'quick fix', rather than addressing the real issue at hand – lifestyle changes (including daily nutrition) to achieve better health outcomes in the long term. What nutrients are a must for any athlete? Athletes and active individuals require a good balance of macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, fat) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) for good sporting performance. Of particular interest is iron (especially in females), calcium and vitamin D for good bone health and immunity. What should people pay attention to in a product’s ingredients list most? Pay attention to the first few items on the ingredient list. These ingredients make up the bulk of the product as ingredients are listed in descending order based on weight. If the first ingredient is milk, then the product is likely to contain more protein than another product whose first ingredient is sugar. Considering how healthy foods or drinks are expensive, what are some tips for athletes to consume healthy foods without having to splurge? Make your own breakfast! I'm an advocate of starting the day well with a nourishing breakfast. Prepping your own breakfast is a great way to take ownership of your nutrition, keeping you energised at work or school. For busy people who're usually in a rush in the morning, overnight oats is a good idea as you can prepare it the night before. You can prepare a batch for consumption over the next two to three days and customise them using a range of ingredients like fruit, nut butters, cinnamon and so much more. If you have slightly more time, eggs are a great and versatile protein option to pair with multigrain toasts or wraps. I encourage athletes to pick a free day in the week to go grocery shopping and stock up on their breakfast or snack needs. When you plan ahead and have nutritious foods on hand, you’ll eat better. With the mantra of Nourish to Flourish, The Nutbaker has never failed to deliver nutrients in the tastiest way possible. Take your pick at flavours ranging from dark chocolate sea salt and coffee walnut granolas to peanut sesame florentines here. #NutbakerSG #HealthyCanBeTastyToo  #NourishToFlourish

Prepare yourself with the right knowledge on cycling nutrition before your first or your next long distance cycle PHOTO: ORANGE ROOM ASIA Cycling can be both rewarding and challenging as a sport, and at a time where travel is restricted, it is fast becoming one of the most popular individual sports for recreational athletes. Beyond just knowing how to cycle however, preparing yourself for cycling long-distances of 50KM or 100KM require proper knowledge on nutrition - things to eat and things you should avoid. In this fifth episode of The Better Show, host and triathlete Cheryl Tay speaks with Claire Jedrek, who is also an avid cyclist, in order to share some useful knowledge on how you can consume the right foods on your next long ride. If you've been cycling and would like to go for longer distances, you would realise that you tire more easily or find your energy levels draining after a certain distance. This is because our bodies need consistent replenishing and refueling. Water and isotonic drinks are not enough if you are looking to go for much longer distances in cycling. So what are Claire's and Cheryl's usual eating routines before, during and after a long distance cycle? PHOTO: ORANGE ROOM ASIA 1. Have carbs and start hydrating 1 - 2 days before your long ride Widely termed as carbo loading or carb loading, carbohydrate loading is a nutritional strategy involving several days of eating more carbs than usual, usually the week before a long endurance activity, while decreasing exercise so as to reduce the amount of carbs you are using. This is done to increase the glycogen stored in your body above its normal amount. Some good carb options are rice, pasta, potatoes. Also remember to start your hydration a couple of days before the ride and not just during your cycle itself! PHOTO: ORANGE ROOM ASIA 2. Have something light, preferably low glycemic index foods, 90 minutes before your ride Eating too much just before long distance cycling is generally not recommended. If you must have a big meal, have it at least 2-4 hours prior to your ride. Stick to lighter low glycemic index foods 90 minutes before your ride, including energy bars which could aid you with the energy boost. PHOTO: ORANGE ROOM ASIA Other good options are bananas, energy gels (for an added boost), fresh fruits and cereals. Some may also like the idea of taking caffeine 60 minutes before their rides. Every rider has different levels of comfort and preferences so it is fine to experiment with which works the best for you, and which you like the most. PHOTO: ORANGE ROOM ASIA 3. Take something light, like energy gels, every 30 to 45 minutes of the ride Sustaining your energy levels during a long ride is the trickiest of the lot. Our bodies need regular replenishment of what it's lost, and this isn't just water. Refueling with the right kind of foods is important - but overeating would also cause distress and severe discomfort. Here, some cyclists would go for energy gels and bananas every 30 - 45 minutes for the quick fix, and also learning to take short breaks during much longer rides is also key. Endurance fuels are also a popular option among long distance cyclists. So what are the foods you should avoid consuming before a long ride? PHOTO: ORANGE ROOM ASIA Avoid fried food, spicy food, and alcohol before and during your ride Even if you are not a fan of eating clean all the time, there are certain types of food which are generally not recommended the night before and on the day of your long distance cycling. Try to avoid oily food, fried foods, spicy foods (especially a no no!) and alcohol the night before your long distance ride - spicy foods have a propensity of causing stomach upsets and would make for a much less enjoyable cycling experience. PHOTO: ORANGE ROOM ASIA 4. Replenish with carbs and protein within 60 minutes after your ride Now that you have completed your first long distance cycle, give yourself a pat on the back! However, we are not quite done yet with nutrition. It is important to continue to replenish your body with fluids, carbohydrates and protein after the ride, as part of your recovery regime. It is also important to know the difference between recovery foods used after a gym workout versus recovery foods after an endurance activity such as running or cycling over an hour. Higher carbohydrate meals are most beneficial after endurance activities, while consuming protein in combination with moderate carbohydrate, is better after strength training. For each episode of The Better Show, Orange Room is giving away $50 cash to one lucky winner, as their way of supporting your fitness journey. All your names will also go into the grand draw of $1,000 cash at their year end celebration! The Better Show is a brand new series brought to you by Orange Room and hosted by Cheryl Tay to help enrich your active lifestyle and empower you with the right skills to help you in your cycling, running and swimming endeavours. #SportPlusSG #Cycling #CyclingTutorial #CyclingTips #Nutrition