5km and 10km runs in Singapore that you can do this year
As well as fresh scenic routes to train for them
Text: Rachel L
If you love running as we do, you’ll agree that half the fun comes from challenging yourself. Pushing through the final stretch and beating your personal best might involve some aching muscles the next morning, but the sense of accomplishment is always worth it — the runner’s high is more than just a myth. If you aren’t quite ready to scale the 42km marathon mountain, we’ve got you covered. For running newbies or fitness lovers wanting to switch up their routine, 5km and 10km runs are the perfect starting point . If you’re bored of the same old running loops we also have a list of our favourite scenic running routes in Singapore.
5km and 10km events:
credit: Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon Facebook
A reinvention of the popular Green Corridor Run, the run is an initiative under the National Parks Board’s “One MillionTrees” movement, intended to work towards rewilding the Green Corridor. Each participant that takes part, $10 will be donated to Nature Society (Singapore) in it’s efforts to enhance and protect the Green Corridor’s natural habitat and ecosystems. The race’s main category is the 10km run while there is a 3km option as well for families to take part together. You need to sign up online and complete your run at any point of time between 18th September – 31st October 2021 at your preferred location. Remember to record your run on the PUB Green Run app in order to successfully complete the race and receive your premium cap and finisher medal! Feel free to rope in family and friends as well to race in one of our island’s cherished natural spots.
Registration date: Currently open
Upload date: 18th September - 31st October 2021
Registration Fee*: SGD 39 (for 3km) and SGD 43 (for 10km)
*All prices are not inclusive of GST and children (under 18) have a 10% discount.
If you’re a night owl or just love the Singapore nightscape, the Sundown Marathon is a must. Established in 2008 as Singapore’s first night marathon, the Sundown Marathon has grown in leaps and bounds to become Asia’s most popular night marathon. Due to the pandemic, this year’s run has been adapted and after Season 1’s success, Sundown Virtual Run Season 2 is back! Its Basic Run challenge involves participants running 5km between 5 pm - 7 am in a single session, in a month at your own convenience. You can register with up to 7 running buddies (you’ll have to start but not finish together) or go solo if you prefer to do so. Once you have completed the challenge, simply upload proof of your run and that’s another run checked off the list!
Registration date: 1 April - 31 September 2021
Upload date: Within the month that you register
Registration fee: SGD 10
More information at: https://www.sundownmarathon.com/.
How about a run with a bit of history on the side? Now commonly known as the Rail Corridor, the tract of land surrounding the former Tanjong Pagar Station once held the railway line connecting Singapore to Peninsula Malaysia. Returned to Singapore in 2011, the stretch holds great historical significance for Singaporean runners as 8,000 gathered to make the most of the iconic trail one last time in 2016 before it was closed for construction. This year, history repeats itself as runners come together in September and October 2021 to run and explore the same trail. Given present circumstances, the run has been organised such that participants can complete the 5km challenge at their own time and pace so long as sufficient proof of completion is provided. If you’re worried about your safety and overcrowding at the Railway Corridor, you can even choose to run the prescribed distance wherever you please.
Race date: 1 September - 31 October 2021
Registration date: by 31 October 2021
Registration fee: Early bird- SGD 22 and Normal rate- SGD 24
More information at: https://connect.justrunlah.com/virtual-challenge/rail-corridor-trail-run-2021/.
Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon
Even if you’re a non-runner, you’ve probably spotted folks donning the iconic blue and green running tank-top in December each year. A highlight of Singapore’s sporting calendar, the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon draws thousands from around the world at the end of each year. Its routes involve running past some of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks and vibrant skylines such as Marina Bay Sands, Garden by the Bay, and the Esplanade. On top of that, its prioritisation of athlete safety, high organisational quality as well as the world-class experience that runners receive has led to it being the only race in Southeast Asia to secure the World Athletics’ Gold Label. Participants can choose to take part in either the 10km, half-marathon or full-marathon categories.
Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, it is uncertain whether there will be a physical race this year. However, 5th December has been slotted in as the tentative date so keep your calendar open and hopefully, you’ll find yourself participating this year! In the meantime, join the SCSM Virtual Club to get great running tips, participate in virtual challenges and redeem attractive prizes.
More information at: https://singaporemarathon.com/.
Running routes for training
credit: NParks Facebook
With a length of 21km, East Coast Park provides all the distance you need to gear up for your runs. Given its straight-shot route and few turns, getting lost won’t be a problem you’ll find yourself stuck in even if you’re not familiar with the place. Set by the ocean, you’ll be able to enjoy the sea breeze as you run. Of course, don’t forget to drop by the famous East Coast Lagoon Food Village for a post-run treat!
Length: 21km
credit: NParks Facebook
Another endless stretch of space, the Green Corridor is perfect for training your endurance. Hidden from the bustle of Singapore’s cityscape, its luscious greenery is a welcomed relief that will provide a great environment to train in. While the southern stretch (at Tanjong Pagar) is closed till 2025, the northern stretch at Bukit Timah remains open.
Length: 24km (but the southern stretch is closed for construction)
credit: NParks Facebook
Sentosa (East Track)
If you’re hoping for a vibrant, upbeat running environment, Singapore’s State of Fun is the place to go. Sentosa is a scenic paradise with its pristine waters, white beaches and iconic attractions. Its cheerful and feel-good vibe makes running there a breezy affair where you can soak up the island’s positive energy to help you power through your run. The East Track begins at Beach Station and ends at Sentosa Cove, where splendid oceanfront views await.
Length: 4.4km
credit: @ronwanderlust
If oil-tankered sea views aren’t your cup of tea, the forest wonderland that the Southern Ridges offers might be more ideal for you. Connecting three parks – Mount Faber Park, Kent Ridge Park and Telok Blangah Park – this route has steep uphills and uneven terrain which make it suitable for more experienced runners. You’ll get to pass the iconic Henderson Waves, run through the treetop along the Forest Walk and admire the view of our island home from atop Mount Faber.
Length: 7.5km
credit: @mindycwc)
A gem in the North-Eastern region of Singapore, Punggol Waterway Park promises well-maintained running tracks that makes it suitable for runners of varying experience. If you love starting your runs early while the sky’s still dark, make sure to pass through the Sunrise Bridge. An East-facing wavy bridge that runs along the edge of the waterway it offers stunning views of –surprise!– the sunrise. As part of the North Eastern Riverine Loop, you can easily access the rest of the route– such as Lorong Halus Wetland and Sengkang Riverside Park from here if you’re hoping to lengthen your run.
Length: 12km
