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SINGAPORE, 2 December 2023 – It was goals galore on the first day of the Women’s World Floorball Championship (WFC) 2023 on Saturday (2 December), as hosts Singapore thrilled the crowd at the OCBC Arena after coming from behind twice to defeat WFC debutantes France 5-2 in their opening match. The home team dug deep to close out the win with goals from Shannon Yeo, Daphne Tan, Yee Yun Shawn, Nasha Jeffi and captain Michelle Lok. “I’m feeling a lot of emotions, because coming in, we didn’t know what to expect from France," shared Shannon Yeo. "When they took the lead against us, it was honestly quite scary. But it was a team effort – all the goals were scored by different people so it was a team win and I’m very happy. Winning on home ground is very different, because we’ve been training all year long and people don’t usually see all the hard work behind the scenes." "Singapore team were accurate in their shots so they were better. We did our best but it didn't go the way we wanted. It's the first time for us in the World Championship and there are quite many fans who followed us and they are enjoying Singapore as well," said French captain, Pauline Meneust. "It helps us because in France, floorball is not that developed so it's important for us to see that we have support so a huge thank you to them.” Right before the game, fans in the OCBC Arena enjoyed the competition's opening ceremony which saw performances and the presentation of the trophy. The first match of the day saw Germany record a decisive 10-0 win over Australia at the OCBC Arena, while defending WFC champions Sweden were in imperious form with a 20-3 win over Slovakia. Other highlights on Saturday include Switzerland’s Corin Ruttiman becoming her country’s most-capped floorball player after featuring in her 136th international match – an 8-2 victory over Norway. Purchase tickets to the IFF Women's Worlc Championships here. #SportPlusSG#Floorball#WomensWorldFloorballChampionships

Debuting in Singapore, the program opens a world of rewards, inspiring fans of the brands and consumers alike to move with ASICS 30 November, 2023 , Singapore – ASICS is excited to announce the official launch of the OneASICS™ Loyalty Program in Singapore, a significant milestone in rewarding loyal enthusiasts of the brand. With this launch, an exclusive lineup of benefits is introduced, further cementing the brand's commitment to keep people moving and building a thriving community that rewards both mind and body. "The launch of OneASICS™ signifies our commitment to strengthening our omnichannel offerings in Singapore and forging an even deeper connection with our community. This initiative is more than just a loyalty program; it's a strategic move to elevate the entire ASICS experience. And this is just the beginning. We will continually onboard even more exciting opportunities for those in our community, ensuring that every step with ASICS is not just a movement but a journey filled with rewarding experiences," said Yogesh Gandhi, Managing Director, ASICS Asia Pte Ltd. Unlock Exclusive Benefits with OneASICS™ The OneASICS™ Loyalty Program is more than just a rewards program; it's a commitment to enhancing the overall ASICS experience. As part of the official launch celebration, ASICS is calling for all sporting enthusiasts to join the program and enjoy a host of unparalleled benefits, including: • First Purchase Reward: Consumers enjoy a 15% discount on their first purchase, making their first ASICS experience even more special • Seamless Shopping Experience: Experience the convenience of free online delivery, ensuring ASICS favorites reach consumers effortlessly. • Birthday Cheers: Consumers can celebrate their special day with a 20% discount, a birthday privilege designed to make their moments even brighter. • Continuous Rewards: Earn valuable points with every purchase, opening the door to future cash rebates. Unlock Your Tier, Elevate Your Rewards There are three tiers in the OneASICS™ Loyalty Program, each offering increased rebates for every dollar spent, based on the respective annual spend. The higher the tier, the greater the rebates—tailoring rewards to your loyalty level. Premier Tier Annual Spend: $0 - $399.99 Earn 1 point per $1 spent 15% off first purchase Free delivery for all purchases Birthday Bonus Early access to sales Premium Tier Annual Spend: $400 – $999.99 Earn 1.2x points per $1 spent Free delivery for all purchases Birthday Bonus Early access to sales Special Offers Prestige Tier Annual Spend: $1,000 and above Earn 1.5x points per $1 spent Free delivery for all purchases Birthday Bonus Early access to sales Special Events and Offers #ASICSSG #ONEASICS

SINGAPORE, 21 NOVEMBER 2023 – Singapore fell 3-1 to regional giants, Thailand in the AFC World Cup 2026 Qualifiers on Tuesday evening. Thai brothers, Supachok Sarachat and Suphanat Mueanta bagged the three goals for their country, while Shawal Anuar scored the sole goal for The Lions. The Singaporean players look up to the stands as they line up ahead of kickoff and prepare to sing the national anthem. 29,644 fans filled the National Stadium on Wednesday evening, surpassing the attendance for the Singapore Festival of Football match between Lion City Sailors and Tottenham Hostpur in July earlier this year. With a more defensive game plan by Takayuki Nishigaya, Shawal Anuar was often deployed to help subdue Thai attacks. Hassan Sunny is on high alert as a threatening Theerathon Bunmathan skips past the Singaporean forward. Theerathon Bunmathan embraces his teammates after Supachok Sarachat’s opener, assisted by Ekanit Panya. The goal came after only five minutes into the game. The War Elephants were charged with adrenaline and excitement, especially since coming into the game with a loss to China. Ilhan Fandi who towers at 1.8m, jumps up to defend his goal from a Thai corner, competing with Bali United centre-back, Elias Dolah. Ryhan Stewart makes a last ditch tackle in a crowded penalty area, blocking off Chalermsak Aukkee's shot towards goal. It was a busy shift for the Singaporean defence, who despite their best attempts conceded three goals. Ikhsan Fandi made his long-awaited return to the pitch since December 2022, earning a deafening chorus of cheers from the crowd, second only to Shawal Anuar’s goal. Fate had it that the forward returned to action for the first time since his serious knee injury in a Singapore jersey, which he suffered while also on national duty 339 days ago. Hassan Sunny gathers the ball safely, as he had done countless times in the game to keep the scoreline tamed. His most heroic save came in the second half, when a shot was deflected as it hit Safuwan Baharudin on its way to the goal. Despite the ball’s altered trajectory, the 39-year-old dove at full stretch to parry it away. Often seen breaking away from Singapore’s half of the pitch in an attempt to lead a counter attack, Song Ui Yong was one of the home side’s best performers before being taken off in the second half. Here, he turns away skillfully from Sarach Yooyen. Suphanat Mueanta, younger brother of Supachok Sarachat was a constant threat on the pitch. Nazrul Nazari keeps his eyes on the ball with knees bent, ready to pounce for the ball. As per tradition at the end of international games, The Singa Brigade sing the national anthem, ‘Majulah Singapura’ in unison with the players stood in front of them on the pitch. Win or lose, the group of fans hold the flag up proudly for the team. The Thai players celebrate the 3-1 win with their travelling fans, some clad in Thai traditional costumes. The away corner of the stadium was atmospheric for a full 90 minutes, competing with the Singa Brigade a few sections away. After every Thai goal, a massive Thai flag was unfurled in celebration. For more match photos from Singapore vs Thailand's AFC World Cup Qualifiers match, visit our photo album here. #AFCWCQ #SgFootball

Singapore lose ground in World Cup qualification after falling 1-3 at home to Thailand in the AFC World Cup 2026 qualification second round SINGAPORE, 21 NOVEMBER 2023 – If there was ever a match that needed that extra Kallang Roar, this was it. On Wednesday (21 November), Singapore played their AFC World Cup 2026 Qualification Second Round fixture against their Southeast Asian rivals Thailand in a packed National Stadium in Singapore. With noticeable absentees in Irfan Fandi for Singapore and Chanathip Songkrasin for Thailand, the match was still compelling considering the history between both teams. For more match photos from Singapore vs Thailand's AFC World Cup Qualifiers match, visit our photo album here. Singapore came into the matchup following a 5-0 away defeat to South Korea whilst Thailand aimed to give back to their travelling fans with a result after they felt that a point was stolen from them in their 2-1 loss against China. Entering the stadium to the loud cheers of the 29,644 fans in attendance, you could sense that this match would be memorable. Watching both nations’ flags emerge from the tunnel as captains Harris Harun and Theerathon Bunmathan escorted their teams onto the field, it felt as if we were in a coliseum. Seconds into the match, Supachok Sarachat warned Singapore of what was to come when he turned Lionel Tan on the edge of the box before watching his shot stun the hands of Singapore’s goalkeeper Hassan Sunny, who pushed it wide. He wasn’t going to be denied the second time around in the 4th minute. Supachok latched onto a well-timed lifted ball from Ekanit Panya and finished the move off with a delicious volley that was too quick for Hassan Sunny, as it flew under him and into the back of the net. Thailand were in the ascendency in the first 20 minutes with Suphanat Mueanta being a nuisance in and around the box but due to the heroics of Hassan Sunny, he was unable to find the net. Singapore found their second gear towards the end of the first period when skipper Harris Harun spotted Ilhan Fandi in the box, and the Challenger Pro League club Deinze striker cushioned the ball down with his chest before playing an inch-perfect pass to an oncoming Song Ui-yong. Unselfishly, the forward slid the ball across the goal for Shawal Anuar who drilled a shot pass Kampol Pathomattakul. 1-1 and it was game on for the Lions as both teams entered the tunnel at half-time. Singapore came out with the same pressure as how they ended the first half, with Song Ui-yong finding himself in control of a loose ball at the end of the box but his tame shot was well saved by Pathomattakul, with the keeper going down low to his bottom left post for an easy save. Teerasil Dangda 'The Machine' Alexandre Polking made some changes midway into the second half that made an instant impact. The most lethal change was putting on Teerasil Dangda for Supachai Chaided in the 66th minute. When asked why he didn’t start, Polking shared that Teerasil, whom he labelled a machine, confided in him and clarified that he only had 30 minutes in him as he was still carrying an injury. The 35-year-old striker only needed 10 minutes to make his mark on the game when he controlled a pass from Ekanit, turning Jacob Mahler before feeding Suphanat Mueanta who had a straightforward task of taking a touch before firing his shot past a helpless Hassan Sunny. Singapore knew they had to find a solution with time slowly running out. They almost had the chance to draw level through their captain Harris Harun. A desperate overhead lob by Shawal Anuar found his captain at the end of the ball, who unleashed a powerful volley that flew past the wrong side of the post. It would have been a stunning strike to draw both teams level. The combination of Teerasil and Suphanat was causing Singapore problems. They were made to pay again in the 86th minute when Teerasil masterfully controlled the ball from Theerathon before playing in Suphanat in the middle of the park. The 21-year-old took a swing at Hassan Sunny's goal, catching the Singapore goalkeeper flat-footed. The veteran could only get his right hand to the ball which was not enough as it slipped past him and into the net to make it 3-1 to Thailand. Like clockwork, you could see the disappointment in the Singaporean fans as they slowly made their way to the exits following the third goal, knowing that a Lions comeback was now impossible. As the final whistle blew, the faces of the Singaporean players told of their regret as they were unable to make their mark in the group. Polking shared during the press conference how important the win was for Thailand following their loss against China. He shared that though Singapore did pose a challenge, he believed in the capabilities of his players, especially Teerasil who showed how impactful he can be and Suphanat as his career progresses with his current team, Oud-Heverlee Leuven in Belgium. Coach Takayuki Nishigaya believed that the better team won on the night. He felt that the third goal threw the team off balance while they were searching for their second equaliser. He looks forward to watching his players improve in their respective clubs and grow as a team for their upcoming games. For more match photos from Singapore vs Thailand's AFC World Cup Qualifiers match, visit our photo album here. #AFCWCQ #SgFootball

The new ASICS NOVABLAST™ 4 promises a more plush bouncy and smoother ride, and will be available from 1 December 2023 2 November 2023, Singapore – ASICS today announces the launch of the NOVABLAST™ 4 shoe, a bouncy trainer that has quickly become one of ASICS’ most popular running shoes. The shoe’s renowned trampoline effect is achieved through FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning and geometries that create a springy feel underfoot. Inspired by blooming plant life and Fibonacci spiral leaf patterns, the NOVABLAST™ 4 shoe features a unique geometric design that gives the shoe an even more iconic look than its predecessors. The result of ASICS’ meticulous Design Philosophy, the shoe’s performance has also been enhanced through its revamped design and a series of new features. The FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning is ASICS’ lightweight and energetic foam, designed to help create plush bouncy feeling and smoother ride. The foam is made from approximately 24% bio-based material from renewable sources, such as leftover waste from sugar cane processing, meaning it not only benefits the global running community, but also eases the burden on the planet we run on. Importantly, this edition will be the first NOVABLAST™ model to be CO2e labelled, providing transparency on ASICS’ sustainability efforts. In fact, the CO2e emission of the NOVABLAST™ 4 shoe is 23% lower than the industry average*. Unique to the NOVABLAST™ 4 shoe, its midsole and outsole are engineered in a way that allow both the heel striking zone and forefoot area to capture and return more energy, generating weightless bounce in every step. Combined with the FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning foam, the shoe delivers a stronger rebound, helping to deliver that bouncy effect mid-run. The shoe’s breathability has also been improved through a one-piece, lightweight, highly breathable woven upper, featuring a stretchy construction with advanced comfort for daily running and races. Additionally, the tongue wing construction has been upgraded with advanced breathability to reduce tongue movement and give an overall better fit. Stability is another area in which ASICS has developed the design of the NOVABLAST™ 4 shoe, with a new heel construction making for a comfortable and supportive ride. The shoe has also been designed with a lower density placed in key areas of the AHAR™ LO outsole to deliver exceptional durability. Laura Bolgen at ASICS said: “Through our commitment to the ASICS Design Philosophy, we are proud to be bringing these important updates to the fan favorite NOVABLAST™ series. The NOVABLAST™ 4 shoe has been designed based on multiple product trials with runners as well as scientific knowledge and data." "The improvements and features reflect ASICS’ passion for innovation, and our commitment to full transparency on sustainability. With its bouncy experience and unique midsole design, the NOVABLAST™ 4 shoe provides a fun running experience for all runners. People can definitely move their minds with the NOVABLAST™ 4 shoe and that is exactly what we want to achieve.” The NOVABLAST™ 4 shoe will be available for men and women from ASICS retail, online stores and specialists running outlets in Singapore from December 1st, 2023, for $209. #ASICSSG #NothingFeelsBetter #NOVABLAST4

Singapore table tennis teens impress at WTT Youth Star Contender held in Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal PHOTO: SINGAPORE TABLE TENNIS ASSOCIATION Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal, 20 November 2023 - Singapore table tennis starlets Zhou Jingyi and Ser Lin Qian continued Singapore's rich vein of form at the WTT Youth Star Contender by winning the U19 Girls' Doubles Category. In a thrilling display of skill and determination, the dynamic duo of Zhou Jingyi (周靖祎), 18 years old and Ser Lin Qian ((舒麟茜), 17 years old from Singapore overcame a series of formidable opponents throughout the course of the tournament to emerge as champions. PHOTO: SINGAPORE TABLE TENNIS ASSOCIATION Their quarterfinal match up pit them against Natalia Bogdanowicz from Poland and Veronika Matiunina from Ukraine. Zhou Jingyi and Ser Lin Qian showcased their prowess on the table, emerging victorious with a 3-1 triumph. The last four encounter proved to be an intense battle against the French pairing of Clea De Stoppelaire and Charlotte Lutz, but the Singaporean duo displayed resilience and strategic brilliance to ultimately clinch a hard-fought victory with a 3-2 scoreline, securing their place in the final. PHOTO: SINGAPORE TABLE TENNIS ASSOCIATION The final proved to be a test of skill and endurance as Zhou Jingyi and Ser Lin Qian faced off against the formidable duo of Annett Kaufmann from Germany and Enisa Sadikovic from Luxembourg. In a closely contested match, the Singaporean pair emerged triumphant with a 3-2 victory, cementing their status as champions of the U19 Girls' Doubles category at the WTT Youth Star Contender. Zhou Jingyi's success extended beyond the doubles category, as she and her partner Izaac Quek triumphed in the Mixed Doubles event at the same tournament a day before her U19 Girls' Doubles victory. #SportPlusSG #TableTennis

14 awards presented at Singapore Disability Sports Awards (SDSA) 2023, acknowledging both community contributions and outstanding high-performance achievements Singapore, 16 November 2023 - An exceptional array of 14 awards was presented at the Singapore Disability Sports Awards (SDSA) 2023, acknowledging both community contributions and outstanding high-performance achievements. Notably, para swimmers emerged as frontrunners, with defending double world champion Yip Pin Xiu securing the prestigious title of Sportswoman of the Year for the fourth consecutive year. Commonwealth Games silver medalist Toh Wei Soong, who had improved on his 2018 Commonwealth Games bronze, added to the night's acclaim by clinching his second consecutive Sportsman of the Year award. The ceremony, held this year on 15 November at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, has been organised by the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC) since 1996 to honour the achievements and contributions made by outstanding individuals and groups in disability sports. The Team of the Year award went to 2022 ASEAN Para Games boccia gold medalists Aloysius Gan and Toh Sze Ning, as well as their competition partners Kagan Gan, who is also Aloysius’ father, and Chew Zi Qun. This marked the second consecutive year that 17-year-old Aloysius has clinched the Team award, this time with a different partner, highlighting his exceptional consistency in performance. Wong Zhi Wei, a Year 1 student at National University of Singapore who claimed double gold at the 2022 ASEAN Para Games in the 50m and 100m Freestyle S13 events, earned the prestigious title of Sportsboy of the Year—an extraordinary achievement, especially considering his kidney transplant just three years prior, as he continues to manage his health while on medication. Breaking new ground for deaf athletes, bowler Adelia Naomi Yokoyama, who amassed eight medals at the Deaflympics 2022 and SEA Deaf Games 2022, made history as she secured the title of Sportsgirl of the Year. The dedication and guidance of coaches were also lauded at the event. Former national bowler William Woo Nam Fatt claimed the Coach of the Year (High Performance) award for his stellar contribution to the deaf bowling team’s successes at the SEA Deaf Games 2022 and Deaflympics 2022. Additionally, para table tennis coach Goh Chyuan was honoured as Coach of the Year (Development) for leading the para table tennis team to a series of victories at the ASEAN Para Games 2022. This year's event introduced several new awards to honour community contributions, such as 'Coach of the Year (Community)', 'Spirit of Sport (Male / Female / Team)', and the splitting of the 'Event/Initiative of the Year' award into 'Event of the Year' and 'Community Changemaker of the Year'. "As Singapore's disability sports scene grows, it's crucial to acknowledge that our para athletes' incredible achievements are thanks to the whole community's support. Likewise, the rising awareness of their successes has boosted the overall support for our community. We aim to highlight these combined contributions to showcase the diverse successes individuals with disabilities can achieve in para sports and the varied roles stakeholders can play in empowering these achievements," shared Ms Kelly Fan, Executive Director of SDSC. The 2023 awards rigorously evaluated the achievements and contributions of nominees spanning from April 2022 to March 2023. This year, the nominations surged to 80, marking a notable increase from the previous year's 30. The nominees represented a diverse range, spanning from 12 to 76 years old. Mr. Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Social and Family Affairs, emphasised the formidable challenge faced by the judging panel. He noted the panel's struggle in selecting winners for each award due to the exceptional talent and unwavering dedication showcased within the stories of every nominee. The Spirit of Sport (Male) award was eventually claimed by wheelchair basketballer Dexter Goh, a stalwart in the sport for more than two decades, who, at the age of 65, continues to play the sport weekly. Meanwhile, the Spirit of Sport (Female) award honoured boccia player and Paralympian Nurulasyiqah Taha. Despite facing vaccination-related travel restrictions, she persisted in self-training and channelled her disappointment into coaching others in the sport, showcasing resilience and selflessness. Earning the Spirit of Sport (Team) accolade, the Singapore Rollers, a powerchair football team, exhibited remarkable perseverance despite enduring severe health conditions requiring arduous transfers and travel for the sport. They also overcame initial hurdles, including the lack of specialised equipment and suitable locations, to play the sport they love, epitomising resilience in the face of adversity. Recognised as the Coach of the Year (Community), Lanny Kwok, Vice Principal of Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore School (West), has been a fervent advocate for boccia for over two decades. Her efforts extend beyond the school, actively promoting boccia to individuals with disabilities in the wider community. Recently, she spearheaded the expansion of a new boccia community programme at Pasir Ris Sports Centre, underscoring her enduring commitment to the sport's growth and accessibility. The Community Changemaker of the Year award was claimed by Playbuddy, a ground-up initiative launched in 2016, dedicated to providing the joy of sports free to children with disabilities every weekend. This volunteer-driven program introduces a specific sport to participants for four to eight weeks before transitioning to another, fostering a diverse sports experience. The Volunteer of the Year title went to Yeo Jia Chyang, a dedicated senior volunteer at Special Olympics Singapore who has committed weekly to training members with intellectual impairment in swimming, come rain or shine, for more than a decade. Meanwhile, the Event of the Year award recognised Run for Inclusion 2022, organised by grassroot group RunningHour. The event had seen more than 2000 participants of all abilities run side by side at the Singapore Turf Club in December 2022. This year’s awards coincided with the 50th anniversary of the SDSC, which was formed by the then Ministry of Social Affairs in 1973 to promote sports for persons with disabilities in Singapore. Nearly 300 contributors and supporters within the disability sports sector were in attendance at Wednesday’s award ceremony to commemorate the golden jubilee. Notable figures included Mr. Raja Singh, one of the first Paralympians to represent Singapore in athletics in 1988; Ms. Theresa Goh, the first Singaporean world record holder in para sport, and Mr Ismail Hussain, the first blind bowling world champion for Singapore. Young athletes like 10-year-old Ryan Chandru, the youngest medalist of the National Boccia Championships 2023, were also present, signifying a continuum of excellence across generations. During the event, a time capsule, holding aspirations for para sports over the next 50 years, was sealed by Mr. Edwin Tong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Law, who served as the guest of honour. For the 9th year in a row, Haw Par Corporation reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to improving the access of persons with disabilities to sports, by generously presenting a $120,000 contribution to the SDSC. Notably, this marks the fifth consecutive year that Haw Par Corporation has backed the SDSA, aiding its revival in 2019 after an 11-year hiatus. Beyond the awards, Haw Par's substantial donation secures enhanced training and competitive opportunities for the Boccia team, fostering their development and promoting Boccia as an inclusive sport within the broader community. The donation also helps to sustain essential national youth competitions in athletics and swimming, crucial for identifying and nurturing emerging para-sports talents by SDSC. "Since our partnership with the SDSC began in 2015, we've been privileged to witness the unwavering resilience of our para athletes and dedication of the entire community, including coaches, caregivers, and volunteers. Their indomitable spirit serves as a profound inspiration to our society. Supporting the SDSC is our honour, allowing us to give these remarkable individuals the well-deserved recognition they have earned. We’re equally committed to ensuring more persons with disabilities can access a better quality of life through sports," stated Mr. Wee Ee Lim, President & CEO of Haw Par Corporation Limited. #SportPlusSG #DisabilitySportsAwards

SportPlus.sg joins Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon behind-the-scenes to debunk certain myths about how the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon race course is measured If you are a runner like me, you might have wondered how marathon race organisers go about measuring the race course. Or perhaps you might have run your lungs out, only to find out to your frustration after you cross the finish line that the marathon course came up either too short or too long on your GPS sports watch. Could you have run extra or did you not run enough? Here we look to debunk some of the common myths behind how a marathon race course is measured in the first of a five-part series we are doing in collaboration with Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon. Recently our SportPlus.sg team had the pleasure of joining IRONMAN Asia staff and Singapore Athletics behind-the-scenes as they went about measuring the marathon race course running route for the 2023 Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon. Interestingly, 20 per cent of the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon race-course this year is considered new, while 80 per cent remains pretty much the same as that of the 2022 edition. Back as a World Athletics Gold Label race this year, it is a requirement for Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon's race course to be certified by a course measurer from World Athletics as a pre-requisite in order to achieve that status. Once a race course is certified, certification is valid for five years and need not be re-certified unless there is a change in the race route within that period. Just how difficult could measuring a marathon course be, you might ask? Well it's not quite as simple as we initially thought. And definitely not done simply by riding down a course with your GPS smart watch switched on. Course measurement is usually preceded by calibration of equipment used to measure the course, taking place a day before the actual measurement. Kim Vivian, Grade A IAAF-AIMS Course Measurer, who helped measure this year's Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon course, shared: "We need to get the calibration course within a milimetre of accuracy, it has got to be incredibly accurate. A five milimetre movement when you do a 42km marathon, it’s multiplied hundreds of times so that should become quite a big difference." "The tape measure we use is actually an engineering tape measure. It’s made of steel and specially calibrated, as we've got to apply a certain amount of tension to it and we also make temperature adjustments to it taking into consideration fluctuations in the climate." So how is it that different runners come back after a race with different distances showing on their GPS smart watches? This was what we wanted to find out, and the exact question we asked Kim. "When you’re measuring a course, you’ve got to measure the shortest possible route while you're out there. You’ve got to make sure that it’s impossible for a runner to run less than the required distance," began Kim with a chuckle. He continued, "Most of the runners, they always run slightly more because they don’t run the shortest possible line and unfortunately for recreational runners like your weekend warriors, they will tend to keep to the left hand side of the road and actually run a lot further than they need to." "Elite runners know what they’re doing so they will run the shortest line but your social runners won’t. They’ll be running with their friends, sticking to the left hand side of the road because that’s what they always do when they go out for a jog on the weekend." "Even in a straight line, a GPS will deviate a little bit. They’re very good but probably 99% accurate but that means they are 1% inaccurate as well." "Meanwhile this system that we use it’s only 0.1 % inaccurate so we’re about ten times more accurate than a GPS. The GPS is not perfect. It’s a good, great tool and a great guide but it’s not perfect." How Much of the Race Course of Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2023 is new? Now that we have gotten the race course measurement part out of the way, which parts of the 2023 Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon course are new? Liang Weisong, Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon Course Manager, shared some useful insights for those who may be curious like we are. "20 per cent is new because we have the new West Coast Highway, the extended stretch. We also have the new finish line at the National Stadium. The rest of it is mostly the same. The new changes is because of the new venue. That’s why we have the new addition as part of the course," said Liang. While these are interesting nuggets of information that not every runner may appreciate while running the Singapore marathon course, we got curious and asked Wei Song how long he has been doing this job for and why he is passionate about his work. Liang shared: "Actually, it’s my second of third year doing so. Of course at the start, we didn’t get to see how these things were being done. So when we first started, we were thinking the same as all the runners... 'How do you measure this course? What kind of gears and equipment did they use?'" "When we saw it, it’s actually a lot more technical than we thought so it’s a learning lesson for everyone including us and the team." #SgMarathon #SCSM2023 #RaceCourse #InsideSCSM

Team Singapore triathletes hope to qualify for this year's Asian Games with their performances Singapore, 30 July 2023 - Over a thousand athletes raced at the thirteenth edition of the TriFactor Triathlon in Singapore’s East Coast Park, Angasa Green last weekend. National athletes from Singapore, Macau, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Philippines competed in an electrifying national triathlon championships sanctioned by Triathlon Singapore. Singaporeans Luke Chua and Herlene Yu clinched top spots for Singapore in the national triathlon championships with impressive timings of 1 hour 3 minutes and 22 seconds and 1 hour 10 minutes and 28 seconds respectively. 2019 SEA Games Gold Medalist John Chicano - also known as Rambo, along with the entire came in 4th position behind his fellow Philippine National teammate Mr Pescon Maynard who took the top spot with a time of 1 hour 56 minute and 19 seconds. Hong Kong top triathlete, Leanne Szeto took the top spot for the long distance category with a formidable time of 3 hours and 4 minutes and 33 seconds for a 2.25km Swim, 42km Cycle and a 15km run. As a representative of Hong Kong, Leanne has shone in major competitions and will undoubtedly leave her mark in TriFactor Triathlon. But the excitement didn't stop there as TriFactor Triathlon announced the launch of the highly anticipated 2024 Singapore marque races. These include the TRIFACTOR Run and CycleRun 2024, TRIFACTOR Run and RunSwim 2024, and the TRIFACTOR Singapore International Triathlon 2024. These races, set to amaze and inspire, will showcase the finest athletes and push the boundaries of human performance. To top it all off, we are offering elite triathletes an amazing 3-in-1 package deal with massive discounts for booking in advance. Don't miss out on securing your spot in these remarkable races and experiencing the thrill of competing at the highest level. Hosted by the incredible Elle Adda - a top-notch triathlete and behavioral health practitioner - TriFactor Triathlon promises an unforgettable experience for athletes, spectators, and sustainability enthusiasts. With Elle's expertise in athletics and psychology, the event emphasizes holistic well-being, making it a standout in the world of sports. Beyond that TriFactor Triathlon also boasts an all-star lineup of ambassadors ready to dazzle the crowds, with Faith Garcia hailing from beautiful Philippines, a community lens and sports sustainability advocate. Faith's dedication to sports and sustainability aligns with TF's sustainability pillar, while she was also present to show the world the importance of pursuing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). TriFactor Triathlon introduced its Sports Science pillar of our Level Up System, beginning with the original Cold Water Immersion program, hosted at the TriFactor's Member's Lounge area located at the event grounds. This incredible program, rooted in cutting-edge sports science, provides athletes with valuable insights into optimising their performance and recovery. Athletes can also opt ot be a part of TriFactor's Membership Program and take their training to the next level! As a valued member, athletes can enjoy exclusive benefits, including access to specialized training resources, networking opportunities within the triathlon community, and priority registration for future events. With international triathletes from 24 different countries competing for the top spot, TriFactor Triathlon promises nail-biting races, breathtaking athleticism, and an electric atmosphere that will leave anyone buzzing with excitement. Get ready to be a part of this extraordinary event! For more information about TriFactor Triathlon 2023, the launch of the 2024 races, and the exciting initiatives introduced, please visit www.TriFactor.Asia. #Triathlon #TriFactor

Sesi Franca crowned FIBA Intercontinental Cup Champions of 2023 as six club teams set Singapore alight with a weekend of exhilarating basketball Sesi Franca were crowned FIBA Intercontinental Cup 2023 champions in a nail-biting and exhilirating final at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. From 21-24 September 2023, six of the world's best club basketball teams had set the SIngapore Sports Hub alight with mesmerizing skills and nifty footwork, as the FIBA Intercontinental Cup arrived on Singapore's shores for the first time - featuring top stars such as two-time NBA Champion Norris Cole and potential NBA draft 2024 first pick Ron Holland. Battle to be World Champions Germany’s Telekom Baskets Bonn travelled to Singapore as Basketball Champions League winners, while Egypt’s legendary Al Ahly had just won the Basketball Africa League. Al Manama from Bahrain qualified for the Intercontinental Cup on the back of winning the FIBA West Asia Super League; while eventual champions Sesi Franca, hailed from their namesake Municipality in São Paulo, Brazil and were winners of the Basketball Champions League Americas. Meanwhile the NBA G League's representative was Team Ignite, one of the most exciting young teams in the minor league, and the Zhejiang Golden Bulls rounded up the list of stellar names, making history in Singapore as the first Chinese club to ever participate in the FIBA Intercontinental Cup. Round-up of FIBA Intercontinental Cup Action Storming their way through the group stage, Sesi Franca and Telekom Baskets Bonn were set up as the two eventual finalists, topping their respective groups. Al Ahly were runners-up in Group A after beating NBA G League Ignite and losing to the Brazilian outfit. Similarly in Group B, Zhejiang Golden Bulls had defeated Al Manama 95-78, before falling to Bonn the next day. The two teams battled for third place, where Wang Shilong’s Golden Bulls secured the last spot on the podium. Ignite and Al Manama played out a close game to determine who would finish last. It was still anyone’s game up until the final three minutes when the American team went on to win 80-60. Thrilling Finale It’s safe to say that the best was kept for last as fans got a thrilling finale to the event. Sesi Franca were up 18-13 at the end of the first quarter but both teams took turns at going ahead as the game went on, tying on several occasions. By the end of the fourth quarter, the Telekom Baskets Bonn players had their arms up in the air in jubilation as they won 69-68 but there was drama at the death. Umpires urged the players back on court. Due to a shot clock violation, the game was restarted with just 1.9 seconds to go. Fans not only in the stadium but in the municipality of Franca, held their breaths. 1.9 seconds was all they needed. Captain, Lucas Dias landed a buzzer beater fadeaway jump to end it 70-69. Jubilation turned to bitter disappointment for the German team in a matter of seconds as Sesi Franca were crowned FIBA Intercontinental Cup champions 2023, which Head Coach, Helinho Rubens hailed as the best day of his life. Entertainment Galore It wasn’t all ball at the Fanzone as members of the public were also treated to evening live band performances. Across three days, OCBC Square was treated to a lineup consisting of Leon and Band, DJ Yenn, LED Water Drummer, Fatt and Karyn as well as Anchorblanc, who performed pop hits such as Dance Monkey by Tones and I and Ed Sheeran’s Shape Of You. #SportPlusSG #FIBAICC #Basketball

The Fresh Foam X 1080v13 is at the forefront of New Balance running and the brand’s dedication to innovation and craftsmanship Singapore, 27 September 2023 – New Balance has unveiled the newest iteration in the Fresh Foam X family – the Fresh Foam X 1080v13. The Fresh Foam X 1080v13 is at the forefront of New Balance running and the brand’s dedication to innovation and craftsmanship. The Fresh Foam X 1080v13 brings a new experience with supreme soft cushioning, elevated comfort, and an improved fit for all who run. A new outsole design built off research and development from the New Balance Sports Research Lab increases forefoot stiffness and an enhanced rocker to improve transitions between strides – helping people run their way, comfortably. The Fresh Foam X 1080v13 has more cushioning for a soft and lightweight feel. The foam compound paired with increased midsole stack heights provides a comfortable run, no matter the distance. New Balance sits at the intersection between sport and culture, which comes through in the Fresh Foam X 1080v13. The Fresh Foam X 1080v13 has a new engineered mesh with reflective details and a structured fit which makes it the perfect shoe for both performance and all-day wear. “The Fresh Foam X 1080v13 truly is a manifestation of research, development, and design innovation for the brand,” said Danny Orr, General Manager for Tech Running at New Balance. “As one of the most popular running shoes New Balance has to offer, we wanted to improve the overall experience, cushioning, and style. Through these innovations, we made the Fresh Foam X 1080v13 the perfect shoe for all types of runners.” The Fresh Foam X 1080v13 will be available for purchase at newbalance.com.sg and select New Balance and running specialty stores on Oct. 13 with a suggested retail price of SGD 259. Make sure to follow @newbalancerunning for the latest updates and creative content. #NewBalanceSG #FreshFoamx1080v13

Singapore Paralympian made her Asian Para Games bow in 2010, but only found her breakthrough in 2021 when she won a gold medal at the Fazza Dubai 2021 World Boccia Asia-Oceania Regional Championships Singapore boccia player Jeralyn Tan Yee Ting, together with coach and competition partner Yurnita Omar, ended their last game in the BC1 Female Individual event at the Póvoa de Varzim 2023 World Boccia Cup today, with an emotional 4-2 win over current world ranked number one player, Andreza Vitória De Oliveira from Brazil. Jeralyn kicked off her match with a narrow win in Round 1, ending 3-2 against Israel’s Bat-El Brightman-Ha-cohen, which gave her a BYE for Round 2. Bracing herself for Round 3, Jeralyn then pulled a strong margin, winning 9-3 against Spain’s Amagoia Arrieta. The semi-finals turned out to be yet another close shave against Argentina’s Ailen Flores, with a 3-2 win, before Jeralyn entered the finals to face off one of her strongest opponents, De Oliveira, who is currently world ranked number 1 and was World Champion in the BC1 Female Individuals category at the Rio de Janeiro 2022 World Boccia Championships. Digging her heels in, Jeralyn won a beautiful game against De Oliveira, ending 4-2 to snap up the gold. The win marks Jeralyn’s second World Cup title this year, the first at Montreal 2023 World Boccia Cup held in April, but euphoria of the win over the strong De Oliveira was evident. “Flying across the other side of the world to compete and represent and make Singapore proud was our goal, so we are over the moon! The days get tougher each day but we take one ball, one day at a time, and we’d like to thank everyone who has been supporting us,” said Jeralyn and Yurnita, after the win. Jeralyn started playing boccia, a Paralympic sport designed for persons with severe physical impairment, in 2008, as a student at the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore (CPAS) School. Over the years, Jeralyn has represented Singapore at various major games, beginning from the first Asian Para Games held in 2010, and only got her breakthrough in 2021, when she won a gold medal at the Fazza Dubai 2021 World Boccia Asia-Oceania Regional Championships, and secured her first World Championships debut at the Rio de Janeiro 2022 World Boccia Championships. She is currently the only BC1 female national boccia athlete in Singapore. "Many wins are celebrated for that brief moment, but they have taken someone years of dedication to get there. This is the same for any athlete, with or without disability. We hope more people will understand that and come forward to lend a hand to this long, unglamourous but very important journey," said Kelly Fan, Executive Director of the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC). #SportPlusSG #Boccia