One North Run 2018

A run that I will not miss every year in place of the Standard Chartered Marathon.  I think the last time I did the Standard Chartered Singapore marathon was 2014 for the full marathon.  After that I have not been very keen to do it, mostly is because it is quite expensive and the route was always the same.

Due to the good experience last year, this year I took the opportunity to sign up for early bird price for this race which is only $30.  The organiser has given enough grace period for all to enjoy this good price.  The best part about this, is that the amount collected was given to the respective beneficiary for a good use.

Some Logistics

The goodie bag is really quite good judging for only $30 paid.  Runners will get an event tee shirt, drawstring bag, a big bottle of Pantene shampoo and couple of other coupons and deals as usual.  The event tee is actually quite nice in dark navy blue.  I took the 10km again, there are choices of 5km and the family 800m kids dash.  There were ample water stations serving both isotonic and water.  For those who do not like to bring along their hydration will not have to worry going thirsty.

The Route

Just like last year, it drew a crowd to come for the race but it was not so crowded until breathless, which is one of the reasons why I like to come for this race.  There were ample place to run despite many winding and some slopes.  After this race, you would have seen most of the buildings and parts of the One North offices and Industrial area.  But some might not know that One North area also has some residential portions which houses the colonial houses from back in the days, till these days there are still occupants in them too.  I guess that was the reason why organisers try to keep the running route to the main area instead of the residential side, so as not to disturb the residents.

The 10km route has actually 2 loops at the end, I kind of remember last year it was also the same.  On the second loop runners are directed into the finishing.  10km runners will merge up with the 5km at the first loop and the second loop to the finish.  Medals, hydration are given up at the Media Corp open space.  By now, sun is up and runners can see clearly the beautiful Media Corp building.

Finishing Area

The event area is very concise and clear, you can see all the booths in the open space with the bag drop, food trucks, Milo truck, and many of the organisers’ like JTC and Fitness First.  Basically the finishing space is very relaxing and full of activities for the family.  You can go for some balloon art for the kids, take an event photo at the photo booth or just chill at the food truck or café Melba( Media Corps’ café) . You can also just lie down on the green field just to take a breather.

As usual, I personally like this race and will recommend it for those living in the West.  This year I managed to get another advocate to come with me.  Maybe next year I will be able to get more friends in.