Sunday, February 6, 2011

2011 Singapore Running Events Calendar

* Highlighted Green - Event date not confirm

* Update – I have decided to Include some interesting Overseas Marathon into the list.

Race Organisers who wish to list down their events or races, do drop us an email at minicoopers51@gmail.com

(L) – Local Singapore Event ; (O) – Overseas Marathon

January 2011

February 2011

March 2011

April 2011

May 2011

June 2011

July 2011

August 2011

  • SAFRA Army Half-Marathon/ Bay Run (L)

September 2011

October 2011

November 2011

December 2011

  • 04/12/11 : Singapore Marathon (L)

Race Organisers who wish to list down their events or races, please drop us an email at minicoopers51@gmail.com

Cheers! (:

Last Updated : 05/02/11

Monday, September 14, 2009

We had move to a New URL...

Hi All,


My Running Addiction had move to Wordpress.
For all the latest Running gear, local Event and Running tips...
Feel free to visit the New My Running Addiction

www.myrunningaddiction.wordpress.com

"In running, it doesn't matter whether you come in first, in the middle of the pack, or last. You can say, 'I have finished."


Thanks You for all your Support.

See you at out new site (:

Monday, August 17, 2009

K-Swiss miSoul Running Shoe Review






“K-Swiss miSoul: The most versatile running shoe ever”


Your browser may not support display of this image.Being an avid runner, I tend to have to more than one pair of shoes to meet the needs of different training routines. Knowing the correct type of shoes to wear will complement one’s training to reach their specific goals. If I were to be doing a fast tempo short distance sprinting workout, I would have to put on light weight shoes. On the other hand, if I were to be training for long distance running, I would have to wear heavier but more comfortable and cushioning shoes.

Everyone’s feet are different and everyone have different needs and goals.


K-Swiss has come up with a revolutionary running shoe that will meet the needs of any type of training, whether its long distance running or sprinting. Imagine having a pair of shoes that can be customized to meet the needs of the training. miSoul running comes with 2 kinds of interchangeable insoles; one for fast tempo workouts (Light 1.0), the other is long distance running (Cushion 1.0).

The Test

To test out the potential of miSoul, I have decided to conduct 2 running sessions, one being long distance and the other being short distance fartlek training around the stadium circuit.


Long Distance Run

Cushion 1.0 - Heavy cushioning insoles

Distance: 8.41km

Locations: Ubi Driving centre to Tampines MRT.

Comment:

While running I can feel the “bouncy” feeling on the heels as they strike the pavement. When landing I experienced less impact on my feet due to the SuperFoam™ cushion in the heel and forefoot. The Si-18® gel technology integrated in the design of the shoe also provided me with the extra cushioning on my heels. The upper mesh of the miSoul allows proper ventilation to keep my feet cool. However the pores were so large it allowed sand and grit to get inside the shoes when running on trails and pavement.

PowerSong: Cut Me Mick by Yellowcard


Short Distance Fartlek Sprints


Light 1.0 - Ultra light insoles

Distance: 2.4km (normal) + 800m (sprint) + 400m (slow) + 400m (sprint) + 1km (cool down)

Locations: Meridian JC Track.

Comment:

When I changed to the Light 1.0 insoles, I instantly felt as if I was wearing a different pair of running shoes. The shoes felt lighter, making it easier for me to sprint through the track. The cushion support on the heels and the stability control on the insoles made miSoul one of the best light weight running shoes I have ever tried on.

PowerSong: The Great Escape by Boys like Girls


Verdict

The K-Swiss miSoul is a very unique concept; a shoe with 2 pairs of insoles for 2 different purposes. It is definitely the first of its kind. While it is not for trail or sand runs, it definitely fits the purpose for road or track events. Therefore I will be using it for the upcoming 21K Army Half Marathon/Singapore Bay Run. Overall, I feel that this shoe is comfortable enough for use in sprinting, and for runs not more than 50km.


Look out for miSoul as it hit our shores on August 09 at all Running Labs.

Nike might have the Air; Asics might have the Gel; with miSoul you got it all

                  – Tommy Haas

                  Keep Running (:

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Avia Men's AVI Lite II Review


Firstly I would like to thank Yong Feng from Bike Boutique Holding Pte Ltd and SGRunners for giving me a chance to tryout and review on the new Avia Men's AVI Lite II Running Shoe.


Avia Men's AVI Lite II Review


Avia Lite II is an ultra lightweight distance running shoe. Avia Lite II incorporate several Avia Technology such as the Cantilever® System, Anatomical Cradle® Dura-Ryd™, Dura-Stryk™ therefore making it one of the best running shoe available in the market today. It provides stability, superior cushioning and shock absorption.



It is best for runners seeking a lightweight trainer for a neutral to slightly overpronated foot type.


What is the CANTILEVER® System?

By looking at the sole of the shoe, notice that part of the sole is concave. The concave sole acts like a trampoline to soften impact that will in turn stabilize the heel and provide increased energy return.


KEY BENEFITS: STABILITY/ SHOCK ABSORPTION


What is Anatomical Cradle® System?

It improves both motion control and shock absorption by mimicking the bottom of your heel in your midsole. A cup-like shape in the midsole, created through an anatomically correct last, literally cradles your heel, holding it right where the foot’s own natural padding and the shoe’s cushioning will absorb the most impact; this translates into less shock on the rest of the body. The cradle also centres’ and holds the heel firmly in place to reduce twisting on both ankles and knees.


KEY BENEFITS : MOTION CONTROL/SHOCK ABSORPTION


Comment



Stability: 8/10
Responsiveness: 9/10

Forefoot Cushion: 7/10
Rear foot Cushion: 8/10



I was able to get a good accumulate distance of 60km with it through several running event among them are the Adidas Sundown marathon 10K , Mizuno Mt Faber 10K, Brooks Republic Run 5k and of course for my 2.4K IPPT. I got to say that the cushion that is in place in the shoe still feel like new even after all the “abuse”. Uphill or downhill, Road or Off-road running, it provided me with the responsiveness, stability and the comfort that I required to sprint and push on the finishing line.


I wore it for the Mizuno Mount Faber run; the route was full of uphill

and downhill slopes. The specially design sole on the AVI Lite II allows user to scale uphill or downhill better due to the shape of the sole. It also provides motion control and shock absorption which helps absorb the forces on the impact, therefore help to ease the pressure on the heels and knees.


Another great quality I observe is the 3M reflective material that is incorporate into the design of the shoe. While I was running the Adidas Sundown Marathon I realise that having a reflective material incorporate into the design of the shoe is a great idea especially if you are running at night as the shoe will reflect light and therefore making you more visible.


Overall I feel that the AVI Lite II is a good stability, motion control and cushion running shoe that will give you the support you need to get a good run. For distance wise I feel that the shoe will be suitable for distance between 10km to 42km or so.


One draw back is that being a “heel striker runner”, I will tend to strike down heel first and I feel that the sole especially on the heel area wore off quickly, Other then that I would recommend anyone who is new to running or even an intermediate runner to go get the AVI Lite II as it will give you the cushioning support you required to finish the race strong.


Saturday, June 20, 2009

Adidas Sundown Marathon 09






Organiser: HiVelocity & Adidas

Date: 30/05/2009, Saturday

Venue: Changi Point

Category: 84k, 42k, 10k


First and foremost, I would like to take this opportunity to give kudos to all participants who beat the odds by completing the 84km category. I myself found it difficult to complete the 42km distance the previous year. Hopefully I too will be able to compete in the 84km category next year.



As I had only taken part in the 10.5k corporate run; I will be only able to write about what I felt about the event in my category.


30th May 2009; while some people are enjoying their weekend nights at home resting or enjoying the night life. Changi Point witnessed a gathering of runners from all over Singapore, all with one goal in mind to compete/ take part in the Adidas Sundown Marathon 2009. The organiser had set up the carnival tent equipped with a giant movie screen in the middle of Changi Point. Baggage holding tents were also present which helped keep the valuables safe.



The flag off for the 10k Corporate was at 8pm. Due to the rain, I wasn't the only latecomer for the event. I was panicking as the rest of my team had not arrived at the starting point yet. As some of us were involved in this year's NDP training that ended about an hour before the flag off time we were unable to make it for the flag off.


I started the run at about 8:15pm; the weather was nice and cool due to the earlier downpour. I was running with the Avia shoes that I've been given a chance to try out and do a review on. The shoes were light and they provided me with the forefoot support I required to sprint my way through the 10k.


Avia Avi- Lite II
(will be posting my review on this shoe in a few days time)



As I ran, I soon realized that there were no water points or portable toilets in the first 5km or so. I saw several runners actually stop and ask the road marshal for water. At just about the 6km mark, there was the only water point in the entire 10km route, many participant were relieved to be able to replenish themselves. I pressed on to reach the finishing line. As I was making my way back to the starting point, I met with the women 10k category runners who had flagged off at 8:30pm. Shortly thereafter I met my other 2 team mates who had just started their 10km journey as well.



Finally, the I crossed the finishing line. I was thrilled to be able to complete the run in under 58mins. As participants crossed the 10k finishing gate, we were ushered to the finisher's tent where 100plus, bananas, finisher medals were given out. An exclusive Adidas visor cap was also given to finishers.


2009 Adidas Sundown Corporate Challenge Finisher's Medal


While waiting for the other runners to either start with their category or finish with their 10k, the organiser had set up a after run carnival tent equipped with a big screen and sitting area. Finishers were able to witness and cheer on their friends as they crossed the finishing line. The organiser also screened movies for the participant who stayed behind after the race as they waited and cheered on the 84km runners.


Personally, I feel that the run was alright despite the lack of logistics such as water point, toilets and lights. It was a very cooling run and my friends and I had so much fun participating in the event. The only thing that I feel was lacking is that the finisher tee for the 10.5k corporate event like they had last year.

Other then that, nothing much except that the team and I came out with a resolution and that is to run the 42km next year and the 84km the year after next. So see you guys next year meanwhile the team and I will constantly train harder to reach our new found goals.


Team: My Running Addictions


My PowerSong: " Just Dance! by Lady Gaga"

Photos:http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=97992&id=634451274&saved

Next Run: Mizuno Mount Faber 10km, 24/06/2009, Bukit Merah

Friday, May 29, 2009

Review: Saucony 100Plus Passion Run 2009


Saucony 100Plus Passion Run 2009

Date: 24/05/2009

Location: ECP E2, Angsana Green

Distance Conquered: 15Km

Routemap: Click here

On the 24th of May 2009, Saucony along with 100plus and the PA association organised the Saucony 100plus Passion Run 2009. It was held in East Coast Park. There were several categories of runs. They were the 15km, 10km and 5km running category. Like the previous 2 years I took part in the 15km running category. This is one event that I would never miss as it is sort of an anniversary run for me. I first started getting hooked into running after completing the Saucony 100plus Passion Run 2007.

The event saw more than 5000 participants from different walks of life. Some were running for the first time while others were familiar faces. All had similar goals and which was to come together to challenge themselves in completing their various category distances


.

The first category to start was the passion run 15km competitive event. Runners came as early as 6:00am via private transport, public or the chartered buses provided just so they could be at the starting line and wait for the flag off at 7:00am.

I arrived there at 6:30am along with my friend, Asri who took part in the 15km category. While waiting for the flag off, runners gathered around the tent area where warm up activities were carried out. Some were busily depositing their belonging to the baggage area which was located close to the stage tent. While others were making sure that their DTAG was secure in place on their shoe. – DTAG was used as a timing device in this run.

7:00am, Flag off. Close to 500 runners made their way out of the starting gate as they began their 15km journey. As the organizer had changed the route slightly, there were a lot of surprises to look forward to.

The weather was quite unforgiving as the sun was just about to rise. Fortunately there were water points every 1km or so to help replenish runners. 100plus and Mineral water in small paper cups were handed out to the runners as they ran pass water points.

About an hour after it began, the first runner passed through the finishing line. I was not the one and neither was Asri but we did complete the distance in under 95mins. It was Asri's first 15km run and his longest run to-date. (Kudos)

I was thankful we both had a lot of fun running the race and that we did not get unnecessary injuries as we will be running the sundown marathon this coming Saturday.

Medals and goody bags were given out as soon as we crossed the finishing line. While waiting for the prize giving ceremony and the lucky draw. Runners were able to look around at the sponsor booth. SGRunners was one of the sponsors for the event. It was a good opportunity for me to get aquatinted with some of the members from the SGRunners forum.

Next came the performance, there were several after run performance but personally I felt that the NUS cheerleader squad was the performance that stole the show. As they began their routine everyone in the tent areas stopped and gazed at their performance.

It was then followed by the prize giving ceremony and the lucky draw. SM Goh Chok Tong was present to give out prizes to the top finishers. Then shortly followed by the lucky draw event.

The Good :
I personally feel that this run get better every year, it clearly shows that the organiser really takes extra effort in making the event a successful one. There were sufficient water points and there were road marshals at every 500m or so cheering and guiding runners to the finishing line. The new route is more scenic compared to last years and I really enjoy taking part in this event.

The Bad:
As this is my 3rd time taking part in this event, there was definitely not much cons to write up on. The only thing I noticed that this year's finisher medal is slightly smaller compared to last year. I received feedback that the design for this medal isn't as beautiful compared to the previous year.


My Rating:

Difficulty: 6 (1- Beginners 10- Superhuman) – the distance might be a little challenging but I think everyone should at least give it a go. Most of the route is on flat surfaces and the view is scenic.

Organisation : 10 (1 - stop organising 10-Encore plz) – Overall it was well organised, Well done.


Will I run this run again?: Absolutely! a not to be missed event of the year. In which it was the Saucony Passion Run 2007 was the first ever run I took part in. This event will be like an anniversary run for myself.


My Power Song : "Make Damn Sure by Taking Back Sunday"

Although Asri and I were tired after our NDP training the day before we were still enthusiastic in at least completing the run in under 100mins. Knowing that we could use this run as a warm up/ Training run for next Saturday's Adidas Sundown marathon, added positive pressure to finish the run strong!


What's next? Adidas Sundown Marathon, 30 May 2009 Changi Point


Photos
Race Photo : http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/album.php?aid=96749&id=634451274

Monday, April 27, 2009

Review: Greatest Charity Run @ TP 24/04/2009








Organiser: Singapore Book of Records

Date: 24/04/2009, Friday

Venue: Temasek Polytechnic Sports Hall

Category: 2.4 or 5 km run, 50m Wheel Barrow race


On the 24th of April 2009, The Singapore Book Of Records along with several other charitable organizations such as 4PM, Teen Challenge... The event was organized in an attempt to break a Guinness World Record for the Largest Human Wheelbarrow Race in human history. This record was held by Carey Baptist Grammar School of Melbourne with 1,044 participants taking part in the Wheelbarrow race.


I participated in this event together with my friend Asri, with whom I will also be running with for the Sundown marathon this coming May. Being that this is a night run it will be a good practice run for us to be familiar with running at night, where the air is filled with carbon-dioxide emitted by the trees that surround us.


As it was a Friday, we were able to reach Temasek Polytechnic on time for the race from our workplace. As we entered my former school we were greeted by the 1st wave of runners taking part in the 2.4km run. We made our way to the Sports hall where we registered ourselves and made our way to the soccer field to participate in the wheelbarrow run. It was tough. The last time we did something of this nature was in primary school. Certificates of participation were given at the end of the 50m.


8pm, All runners participating in the 5km assembled.A mass workout was conducted. Then off we went. Two rounds around route, which took us from the sports hall to the fountain, Mensa, Design canteen and the Stadium. It felt very nostalgic for me as I used to run around the route back when I was schooling there. Goody bags was given after the completion of the run. I have to say that the sponsor for the event was very generous; I did not expect to go home with so many souvenirs.


The Good:

Personally I felt that the organisers had taken great care planning the event. There were a lot of activities going on at the same time and everyone seemed to be having so much fun trying to break the world record. Goody bag contents were beyond expectation.


The Bad:

They organized it on a Friday night, this might be the reason why there were not that many participants from the general public. The event was mostly attended by the students from the Temasek Polytechnic. Also there were no clearly designated water points for the runners and I had some feedback from some runners that certain parts of the route were too dark.


My Rating:


Difficulty: 2 (1- Beginners 10- Superhuman) – an enjoyable run. The route is mostly flat and being that it was a night run, we hardly sweat as the temperature was cool.

Organisation : 7 (1 - stop organising 10-Encore plz) – Overall it was well organised, despite not having any baggage collection area. The organizer and the student helper made it a very entertaining event to be a part of. Kudos!

Will I run this run again? : Maybe. If they were to organize it on a weekend. It was a rush to get to the venue. Never the less had I had so much fun being a part of this record breaking event.

My Power Song : "Pressure by Paramore"

Photo: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/album.php?aid=91371&id=634451274&ref=mf

What's next? Saucony 100plus Passion Run 15K 24th May 09, ECP