Going To The Run: March 2016

As a city dweller, most of my running has been done on roads. I have dabbled in trail running in the past (review of Blood Runner in Putrajaya), but the event was not a full trail run. Lately, I've been looping my local park (Lembah Kiara in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail) since its upgrading was completed and that has renewed my interest in trail running.

So when I heard that the Singapore Green Corridor Run in its third edition would be its final (part of the corridor will be closed for construction of the Murnane pipeline), I took a plunge and registered for the race! I thought that was reason enough to go across the Causeway for a short holiday and participate in a running event, i.e. a "runcation."

The Green Corridor Run was held on Sunday, 8th March and the starting point was at the former Tanjong Pagar Railway Station. The guest-of-honour, the Singapore Senior Minister of State for Environment and Water Resources.flagged off the race at 8 a.m. Along with 11,000 other enthusiastic runners, I was happy to be present at this important event, which was held in conjunction with the Singapore World Water Day celebrations.

The majestic former Tanjong Pagar Rail Station which has been preserved

My first time not wearing the official running vest in an event to announce my entry into trail running

Throngs of people heading to the starting line

Water challenge to raise money for charity

The course, previously part of the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM's) rail network was a 10.5 km of greenery and woodlands. The terrain was varied - rocky paths, lush greenery fields, muddy trails and hills featured along the way. Being a road runner, I thought the scenery was stunning, quite a change from all the road races that I participated in. The air was cool, and my body did not feel overheated. It's hard to believe, but here I was in the city state of Singapore, away from the noise and pollution of the city and running in this beautiful green corridor.

There were three water stations - at 3.5km, 5km and 7.5km and they were all well-manned by volunteers. I also noted that the medics were quick to respond to injured/unwell runners. Two volunteers were seen carrying a stretcher and running at a remarkably quick pace to provide aid to a participant in need of medical assistance.

The course at 9.5km was the most challenging part of the run as it involved running uphill for a long stretch. I managed the conquer the inclines this time and was rewarded with a downhill slope en route to the finish line at the old Bukit Timah Rail Station.

At the end of the race, I was exhausted but at the same time exhilarated that I completed my first trail run. The varied terrain under my foot gave a more challenging workout for my body. The best part was definitely the surroundings which I thoroughly enjoyed.