shingshing

Channel NewsAsia - 1 hour 55 minutes ago

SINGAPORE: To make the Singapore Bay Run a little different from other running events this year, its organisers have come up with the idea of pace runners.

"There will be a total of 30 pace runners. They will be coming at three different timings - two hours, two hours 15 (minutes) and two hours 30 (minutes). We will be putting on luminous vests, light sticks as well as blinkers for the participants to identify us," said pace runner Jinnie Lim.

The pace runners would help those taking part in the 21-km half marathon for the first time, spurring them on to finish the race within the stipulated time.

Another new feature at this year?s event is a 12-km competitive category for those who are not quite ready for the half marathon.

"We have also included eight performance spots along the three running routes, where they will be entertained and encouraged and cheered on by performers as they run through? liven up the overall festivity mood for the event," said Colonel Tan Kian Heong, deputy chairman of the Singapore Bay Run.

The race, in its 16th year, will kick off at 5.30am on Sunday at the Esplanade Bridge.

Around 60,000 runners pounded the roads in last year's Singapore Bay Run. - CNA/ac

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5.30am? *FAINT*