We reached the starting point just a few minutes before the flag off time. The atmosphere was electrifying. The music was pumping away and it gotten the runners all excited. Just before the half-marathon flagged off, some of the full marathon runners had ran past the starting point after their first U-turn. All were cheering for them. I am sure they felt motivated to run faster for that instant.
And so my half-marathon started shortly and I was basically running for the next 2 hours 38 minutes. And that was my timing. Timing was not of priority, rather I was only aiming to finish the race in one piece and I am just glad to achieve that and under 3 hours.
Everything was so well-organized for this race.
We had no difficulty making our way to the starting point, thanks to the signs along the way. The race started on time and it was spacious enough not to have frustrated runners even before the race starts. Water-points were aplenty along the way leaving the choice to the runner at which point of their race they would like to replenish their fluid. Muscle rubs stations were available as well to soothe any aching muscles as well. Bananas were also provided for hungry runners. I didn't take thou, wouldn't want to risk getting stomach upset. The routes were also wide and spacious and runners seldom need to compete for space and hence no slowing down due to space constraints.
There were even live school bands at some points to cheer the runners on. Cheer leading teams were also spotted. I must say the organizers also took some effort to recruit quality Runspirators (pple engaged to cheer the runners on). Some of these sure knows how to cheer up the runners as they shout words of encouragement when the running gets tough. Some other even Hi-5 the runners. And they were so passionate in their cheering, it spurs u on in the remaining distance. Distance markings were positioned strategically to update the runners on their coverage as well.
The collection of medals was a breeze. Enough stations were setup to ease any congestions. 15 seconds was I took to exchange my running chip for my medal. There were plenty of water/Isotonic drink point catered for the runners. The sponsors were also generous enough to allow unlimited flow of 100plus canned drinks.
When I thought they had me impressed, I was further impressed at the after race analysis that was provided free on their website. U just need to enter ur race number and u get to see all the statistics. Ur ranking, Ur speed at various section of the race, Ur neighbours who completed the race with you, ur performance as compared to ur friends etc etc. Photos were also up with 2 days. I am amazed at how they sort the enormous amount of photos they have. Even though these services were out-sourced, I am still pretty impressed they took the effort.
Here's a break-down of what my $45 marathon race fee gotten me so far:
1) 1 Standard Chartered Bag
2) 1 Adidas SC Run 2007 Singlet
3) 1 Half-marathon Medal
4) An achievement of completing my second half-marathon
5) Motivation to train for the next Standard Chartered half-marathon with improved timing
No comments:
Post a Comment