Dust off your trainers and hit the ground running with the best of Singapore's marathons and races in 2017
.The start of a new year’s always the best time to kick-start a fitness routine. If running’s part of your resolutions, you’ll be pleased to know that the island’s got plenty of races for both rookies and seasoned runners. To help you get your cardio fix, we round up the best of Singapore’s marathons and running events for 2017. Start lacing up those trainers! We’ll see you at the finish line.
Marathons you can still train for this year
Blacklight Run 2017
We’re all about fun runs, and this is no exception. Dubbed “the brightest, most fun 5K out there” and known as Asia’s most Instagrammable run, Sketchers’ Blacklight Run turns into a party you’ll never forget, decked with LED shutter shades, LED rings, UV glow powder, Blacklight glow shoelaces and a BLR glow baton. Get in the mood with its pre-party, as well as its after-party with DJs from around the region bringing high-energy beats and banging tunes. You best believe it’s going to be lit — literally.
Blacklight Run 2017, Palawan Green, Sentosa Island, Singapore 099981, 28 October 2017.
PERKS! We’re giving away three pairs of VIP tickets to the Sketchers’ Blacklight Run, worth $180 a pair! Head on over to Honeycombers on Facebook and look for that picture above for your chance to win!
Newton Challenge 2017
Are you a morning person? If yes, then this one’s for you! Get flexin’ and challenge yourself to Newton Challenge 2017’s brand new category – 10km. But if 10km is too easy for you, flag off at the Marina Barrage with other running categories, including 21.1km and 32.195km. Enjoy the loyalty rate and the early bird rate from now ’til 31 August.
Newton Challenge 2017, Marina Barrage, 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018951, 29 October 2017.
ASICS Relay Singapore 2017
Wanna get back on track with your fitness goals? Then put on your running shoes and join in the Asics City Relay – Singapore’s only night marathon relay that’ll take running teams through iconic landmarks including Singapore Sports Hub, Gardens by the Bay, Helix Bridge and the F1 Pit Building in this 42.195-km route.
Asics Relay Singapore 2017, Old Kallang Airport, Singapore 397750, 4 November 2017.
YOLO Run 2017
You only live once, so why not join the YOLO Run? This running marathon encourages participants to opt the challenge of a 5km, 10km or the new 21km run, while being entirely themselves, where the action of liberation is expressed via the lack of shirts (note: shirts are optional). It may sound silly, but with the support of X-Change Republic (the creators of the YOLO Run) and its supporters, proceeds go to the adopted beneficiary for every runner who speeds off without a top on. With a mantra like “YOLO”, running for charity and supporting those in need is always a yes-go.
YOLO Run 2017, F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Blvd, Singapore 03897, 11 November 2017.
Great Eastern Women’s Run
Gather your girl squad and join in on a women-only run to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Foundation. Kicking off at The Float@Marina Bay, the run features three race categories: 5km, 10km or 21.1km race categories. Then, kick back with friends and family over at the village where tons of activities await.
Great Eastern Women’s Run 2016, The Float @ Marina Bay, 20 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039805, 12 November 2017.
Swissôtel Vertical Marathon
Take to the skies with this gravity-defying race. The exhilarating marathon sees participants blazing up 1,336 steps over 73 storeys in the shortest time possible. It’s no easy feat; at a height of 226 metres, Swissôtel The Stamford’s one of the tallest hotels in Southeast Asia. Choose to challenge yourself by venturing alone, or buddy up for a once-in-a-lifetime group memory.
Swissotel Vertical Marathon 2017, Swissôtel The Stamford, 2 Stamford Road, Singapore 178882, 19 November 2017.
Standard Chartered Marathon
The highlight of Singapore’s race calendar is the year-end Standard Chartered Marathon. Said to be the largest running event in Southeast Asia, the marathon covers major landmarks around Marina Bay and the CBD. Last year’s edition featured five categories, including a 10km race for all abilities, Ekiden (a team run) and a 42.195km full marathon.
Standard Chartered Marathon 2017, various locations including Orchard Road and Esplanade Bridge (check out the full list here), 2-3 December 2017.
Santa Run for Wishes 2017
Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, running for the Make-A-Wish foundation is always a good start to stay on top in Santa’s good books. Plus, sprinting and walking through Marina Bay with a crowd of fellow runners in Santa’s iconic red suit is a spectacular sight to behold. Besides it’s 2km trail and 5km run, families can also participate in plenty of games, rides and prizes to be won at its carnival!
Santa Run For Wishes 2017, 11 Marina Blvd, Singapore 018940, 9 December 2017.
Those that ran away
Men’s Health Urbanathlon
The Men’s Health Urbanathlon isn’t for the fainthearted; its mantra is “No pain, no glory. No bruises, no story”, after all. The race returns for the eighth year running with free-form running (with a distance of about 12km) added to its four new obstacle zones, leading up to a final Urban Warrior Course at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza. Be warned that only the fittest survive the last challenge.
Men’s Health Urbanathlon, Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza, 391A Orchard Road, Singapore 238874, 4 March 2017.
Metasprint Series Singapore
Best recommended for the seriously fit, the Metasprint series doesn’t offer your average marathon – it comprises a duathlon in March and a triathlon in April. First timers are best suited for the former; its location in the Singapore City Skyline means flat grounds and closed, smooth roads for running and cycling. If you’re really looking for a challenge, the triathlon takes place at East Coast Park and involves the whole shebang: swimming, cycling and running individually or as a team.
Metaprint Series Singapore, F1 Village and East Coast Park, 19 March and 23 April 2017.
OSIM Sundown Marathon
Not one for running in intense heat? Conquer the night instead with one of Asia’s largest races. The OSIM Sun Down Marathon pushes you to sacrifice sleep and catch the sunrise with an all-night race in the dark. Race categories include a 5km fun run, 10km challenge, as well as half and full marathons.
OSIM Sundown Marathon, F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Boulevard, Singapore 03897525, 25 March 2017.
Spartan Singapore
Like its name suggests, Spartan Singapore isn’t for your average runner. It’s the world’s most renowned obstacle course race; instead of a slow jog or a quick sprint, you’ll be climbing walls, pushing and crawling through mud and barbed wire. Start off with the 5+km Sprint if you’re new; though short, it’s packed with 20 obstacles. For the experienced, the Super 13+km course will test your endurance and spirit with 24 to 29 obstacles. You’ve been warned.
Spartan Singapore, Venue to be announced, 6 May 2017.
Fun runs and races for rookies
Safari Zoo Run
This one’s for animal-lovers – do your bit for wildlife conservation while squeezing in a good workout. Choose from four teams to support – these include Team Ah Meng (for the rescue and relocation of orangutans to safer forests) and Team Chawang (in support of the Elephant Response Unit’s mission to herd wild elephants to protected forests). Race categories include a 10km competitive challenge for both men and women as well as a 5.5km family run.
Safari Zoo Run, Singapore Zoo, 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826, 18 February 2017
Run for Hope
In support of cancer research, the annual Run for Hope brings together cancer patients and families. Select from two categories: the 3.5km family run or walk or the 10km competitive race. Both feature the scenic Marina Bay route, so expect incredible views as you pound the pavement for a good cause.
Run for Hope, Bayfront event space, 19 February 2017.
Terry Fox Run
The inspiring legend of Terry Fox paved the way for charity runs against cancer. If you’re new to the story, Terry was only 18 when he was diagnosed with bone cancer and had to have his right leg amputated. Moved by the plight of young cancer patients, he decided to run across Canada to raise funds for research, calling the journey a Marathon of Hope. In the Singapore edition, feel-good company is promised all around at the non-competitive race of 5km or 10km courses. All funds from the run will be awarded to local cancer research.
Terry Fox Run, Angsana Green, East Coast Parkway, 26 February 2017.
Race the Dead 3 2017
Think you’d survive in a zombie apocalypse? It’s not just about physical strength – test your limits and instincts with a zombie-themed race. This year, the undead have evolved and are resolved to trap you in their turf with various obstacles. Tip: Keep your life flag with you at all times during the 4.2km race, and finish the run within an hour and a half for lesser odds of being zombie food.
Race the Dead 3 2017, Sentosa, Siloso Beach, 18 March 2017.
Electric Run Recharged
Hands up if you’d take raving over running any day now. With Electric Run, there’s no need to choose between the two. The nighttime run combines the feel of a dance party with the calorie-burning benefits of your average race. Themed dance party zones will greet you at every kilometre, and culminates in a finish line after-party with a live DJ.
Electric Run Recharged, Marina Barrage, 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018951, 22 April 2017.
Monster Ultra 200
The Monster Ultra 200 run is exactly how it sounds; at a distance of 200km, it’s for serious runners only. Beginning from MacRitchie Reservoir, the race takes place over 48 hours and features no medical aid or directional signs. The best part? Entry is completely complimentary – it’s all about testing your endurance and pitting yourself against hardcore fitness fanatics.
Monster Ultra 200, MacRitchie Reservoir, 29 April 2017.
The Music Run 2017
Lace up those dancing shoes, running ravers; Music Run is bringing the beat to Singapore this May. The soundtrack of the night is in your hands – vote for your fave music in the build up to the festival. The run itself is a 5km course made up of five themed zones – rock, pop, old school, hip hop and dance – and is lined with over 120 speakers. Yep, running has never sounded so good. Over at the music fest post-run, expect DJs, live bands, laser lights, dancers and fireworks – a fine reward for all that sweat you put in.
The Music Run 2017, Sentosa Island, 6 May 2017.
Stars Wars Run
Gather ’round Star Wars fans, you’re invited to live out your far, far away fantasies with this themed run. Pick between a 10km competitive race, or a 4.5km fun run. Choose carefully when registering – your choice of the dark or light side will determine your route. While running in your jedi robes isn’t recommended, you can hit the tracks with your very own glowing red or blue lightsaber (available at an additional charge of $25).
Star Wars Run, Marina Bay venue to be confirmed, 6 May 2017.
Mizuno Ekiden 2017
The first of its kind in Singapore, Mizuno Ekiden sees teams of four runners competing in a relay race over distances of 42.195km and 21.1km for the Open Category, and 21.1km for the Corporate Category before finishing at a Japanese themed race village. Here’s how ekiden works: the first runner will kick off the race wearing a sash and pass it on to the second runner at a transitional point. This continues until the last runner has completed the race.
Mizuno Ekiden 2017, The Promontory @ Marina Bay, 11 Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018940, 19 August 2017.
SAFRA Singapore Bay Run & Army Half Marathon
The SAFRA Singapore Bay Run and Army Half Marathon is back for its silver jubilee! Celebrating NS50 as well, the marathon will be introducing the NS50 Team Run which encourages teams of 10 consisting of current SAF NSmen, as well as its alumni, to take part in its 5km run, clocking a total distance of 50km… because NS50 – get it? If you’re feeling the heat, go for the competitive 21km Army Half Marathon and SAFRA 10km Race. If not, the SAFRA 5km Fun Run and Families for Life 800m Challenge are enough to work out a sweat.
SAFRA Singapore Bay Run & Army Half Marathon, from Esplanade Bridge to Padang, 20 August 2017.
Puma Night Run
For more neon-dousing fun, check out the Puma Night Run. Bolt through three zones and turn green, pink and orange respectively, thanks to the glow-in-the-dark powder blasted along the 5km route. And if you’re up for a late-night boogie after, hit the dancefloor at the event venue and glow with your killer dance moves (and powder!).
Puma Night Run, Seletar Aerospace Park, 26 August 2017.
The Color Run
The Happiest 5k on the Planet is back in Singapore! On this 5km canvas of colourful fun, join thousands of others as you get splashed with a variety of neon hues at every kilometre, turning the trail into a kaleidosopic, glow-in-the-dark display. You might wanna bring a change of clothes for this.
The Color Run, Palawan Green, Sentosa Beach Station, Singapore 099981, 23 September 2017.
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