Okay, let's get a formal review up before I post about my performance.
This year was a first, in many ways. The course was split into three different start points for the Full/Half/10K. Of course, there were the newly introduced routes where runners got to cruise around iconic landmarks of Singapore such as Orchard, Sentosa, Singapore Flyer, Universal Studios etc. It certainly made the run more interesting and scenic. And also, a new record of 60,000 runners took part -- a good sign that the SCMS is still the pinnacle public sports event locally.
On the Full Marathon route; I thought it was great! My words may not hold much since this is my maiden Marathon, but I definitely liked the fact that I got to see all the iconic landmarks as I run. Serves as a good distraction too! The start at Orchard Road - oh boy it was beautiful, with the Christmas lights and ornament in full display on an early morning. Continued past familiar buildings such as the Fullerton Hotel and Esplanade, before heading to Nicole Highway. There, it was all the way south to the long East Coast Park stretch. Well, needless to say, this is the part where runners start to 'drone', or keep their pace, or for people like me, hit the wall. But soon after the 31K mark we got to see the beautiful blue sky again and headed towards the Marina Reservoir. I absolutely loved the breathtaking view of Singapore's skyline at the 32K mark; for that moment you just forget about all the pain and appreciate the wonderful sight in front of you. Crossing the reservoir was a first for most runners too, including me. Then we were greeted by Marina Barrage (lucky we didn't have to run up =X), followed by Marina Bay Sands. After this...THE BENJAMIN SHEARS BRIDGE. The KILLER part of the Marathon. It was upslope all the way now, and you'd saw 80% of the runners walking. But after conquering that it was all the way back to Esplanade Drive and the final turn into Padang, the end point.
Logistics wise, it wasn't perfect. There were pros and cons but ultimately the 2K walk to the baggage collection just created a very negative experience for runners, no matter how well organised the other areas were. Especially for Full Marathoners, who were already struggling to walk, much less have to get all the way to the F1 pit stop. The water points were sufficient, and volunteers were quick to re-fill the drinks so no complaints there. However it'd be much better if there were most volunteers/first aiders handing out muscle rubs, especially after 30K. At the most challenging part, the Benjamin Shears bridge, they actually ran out of muscle rub when that was the point most people need them. Gel/banana supplies were adequate.
Well to add on, I strongly think it would be good to add music stations to the run. Having loud music being play will give runners a huge psychological boost and aid them towards completion of the race. I was wondering, this is an international event, why aren't there music stations throughout? It gave me a very 'dead' atmosphere at times, especially when we run through the mundane East Coast Park.
Post race collection was done smoothly, tents were well organised. This year's finisher's medal is awesome! Even though it's my first Marathon medal, I think it might well be my prettiest already! The shirt is really up to individual preference. Though I think the black colour would not do well with most runner's, especially females.
In essence this year's SCMS was a success, especially the interesting route. Essentially it managed to do the most important thing which was to create the vibrant atmosphere and showcase the spirit of the marathon. It is something which I can only feel in a Marathon, nowhere else.
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