Run Your Own Race

Run Your Own Race.. that's what I did.

If I were to grade myself on my sixth full marathon participation, I would probably give a 'C-' or lower. But I am not going to grade myself and just be content with completing the Singapore Marathon yesterday. I clocked under 5:00 hours by my Garmin and will know the official time in a day or two. Some pictures from this memorable event for me and a bunch of Chennai Runners.


I collected my entry pack on Saturday (Dec 1, 07) along with a bunch of Chennairunners. Since the local participants had collected their entry packs in advance, Saturday was left for overseas participants. There were ample volunteers helping the visitors through the process. Here, I must mention about the flawless organization. From the time I registered online 5 months back to the event day, organizers kept us informed on a regular basis and kept us motivated.


Chennai Runners gang.. About 12 of us participated this year.. (some not in the picture)


Roads were blocked for the duration of the run and notified well in advance. Compare this to the ad hoc closure for just three hours in Chennai.


Baggage deposit area... Organizers had set up a huge tent and staffed it with enough volunteers to help the runners.


Line Naturally.. If there are two people for the same thing.. then a line get formed naturall... Runners lining up to use temporary rest rooms here.


Adidas and Standard Chartered Bank must have spent big bucks.. The entire city seems to have been decked up for this occasion. (Does Standard Charted Bank spend similar amount on Mumbai Marathon ?)


One of the early half marathon runner near the finish line..


Senthil, a Chennai Runner near the half marathon finish line.


Yours truly.. This is my fourth successful full marathon. My only regret is not having started sooner....


Several groups like this one participated and they acted as great support group.


Support available in plenty for the worn out runners.. from drinks to foot massage everything was available.

Overall, this was a good run for me and for many of the Chennai Runners. I clearly see a positive progression of the Singapore Marathon in its stature and strength. As I mentioned before, the overall organization was impeccable and the volunteer support system was wonderful. However, I do have one suggestion and that is to do with the course. The running course was simply not sufficient for the thousands who hit the road last Sunday. In most of the places the the course was narrow and couldn't handle the volume. I hope the organizers take care of this problem and make the run even more enjoyable.

More Photos here