Because Singaporeans clearly need a reason (and a mass organized event) to run together, we compiled all the runs taking place next year… for now. You’re welcome.
Mileage New Year Run (Jan 1)
On the first day of 2018, the Mileage New Year Run is challenging participants to stretch their limits and “break through the wall”—pacers will even be available for sub 40min, 45min, 50min, 55min, and 60min, to help 10km runners achieve their personal best. Don’t bother showing up if you stayed out late partying the night befiore.
Run for Hope (Jan 21)
The annual charity run raising awareness and support for cancer research, patients and survivors is back, so put your calorie burning to good use here. Jointly organized by the National Cancer Centre Singapore, Four Seasons Hotel Singapore and Regent Singapore, the run will be split into two categories—10km and 3.5km. They’ve also organized an ongoing bake sale from now till the day of the run, featuring muffins from Regent Singapore’s pasticceria Dolcetto by Basilico, which you can purchase here. All proceeds from sign-up fees and the muffin sale will go towards the National Cancer Centre Singapore Research Fund.
Safari Zoo Run (Jan 27)
Here’s a truly fun run for all ages. In its 10th edition, the Safari Zoo Run was first conceived to commemorate the Singapore Zoo’s best loved animal personalities—the one and only, reverent Ah Meng, who died of old age in Feb 2008. This year, the run’s focus is to raise awareness for wildlife conservation, via four animal icons representing four endangered species in Singapore. Take the unique trail through the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, and say hi to the locals along the way.
Pokemon Run Carnival Singapore (Jan 27)
This last Saturday of the month looks set to be an exciting one; if you’ve still got the adrenaline pumping, make a date with Pikachu at the Pokemon Run Carnival, back for its second edition by popular demand. The trail takes you through the waterscape and green canvases of Gardens by the Bay, but throws in fun obstacles in fire, water, electricity and grass element zones to conquer along the way. It’s the true test to becoming a Pokemon Master.
Afterwards, shake off the leg cramps at the Pokemon Carnival, where you can play games, feast on gourmet delights, and catch the much anticipated, choreographed Pikachu dance performance.
V-Run: Run with Love (Feb 10)
It’s a strange world we live in, where many view running as a romantic couple activity. So this Valentine’s Day, ditch the expensive dinners and head to Siloso Beach instead, for a leisurely sunset 5km on the beach. Singletons who want to run with friends and family are of course, very welcome too.
Marina Run (Feb 10)
Alternatively, there’s the no-frills heavy duty run at Marina Barrage on the same day—perhaps for those who prefer their workouts devoid of romance. There’s a 5km fun run, 10km, 21km, and a newly added 30km; don’t mess around.
Run For Light (Mar 3)
First you ran for hope, now you’re running for light. The message behind this run is a little convoluted—it aims to align itself with positive imagery and inspire individuals to become “leading lights” in their industry—but hey, a run’s a run. The night run kicks off at Punggol Waterway Park, with a choice between 5km and 10km routes; there’s even an intriguing 1km Blindfold Walk.
Bedok Reservoir Ultra (Apr 21)
The Bedok Reservoir Ultramarathon returns to the delight of its many eastside fans. The 12-hour limit ultramarathon takes you through a 4.3km loop course at the reservoir; challenge yourself and see how many laps you can hit from 7am to 7pm.
Income Eco Run (Apr 29)
Organized by NTUC Income, Southeast Asia’s premier eco run works (or runs) towards environmental conservation and reducing waste. To start, all runners who pledge to be ‘Zero Waste Runners’ don’t receive a finisher tee or medal. 2017 saw them successfully cut down on 88kg of textile from finisher tees, as well as 2991kg of carbon emissions, thanks to shuttle buses provided for runners; biodiesel was also used to generate power on the race day. This year, there’s a newly introduced 5km fun run, 10km runs (mixed team and competitive), and a 21.1km half marathon.
OSIM Sundown Marathon (May 19)
A classic since 2008, the Sundown Marathon will see you running with pals from 5pm on Saturday till 10am next morning. This year’s race categories include a 5km fun run, 10km challenge, 21.1km half marathon, and the 42.195km full marathon. As the mighty (and the organizers) say: sleep can wait.