100Plus in tie-up for naming rights

MEMBERS of the public who yearn to be able to jog with a scenic view of the city skyline can now do so at the Singapore Sports Hub's 100Plus Promenade.

The 888m running track around the newly-completed National Stadium also serves as a walkway by which to access arenas and facilities in the hub.

It was unveiled yesterday by Oon Jin Teik, chief operating officer of the Sports Hub, and Ng Jui Sia, chief executive (non-alcoholic beverages), Fraser and Neave.

Singapore Sports School athletes Bryce Chong and Lerhan Raushan did an inaugural lap around the running track.

Explaining the decision to secure the naming rights for the promenade, Ng said: "Running and cycling are very synonymous with our activities and lifestyle that our brand promotes.

"The promenade is a sheltered track. People can run here, they can cycle here, and it is open to the public at all hours."

Plans for other uses for the promenade are still under discussions, with Oon mooting an idea of introducing a sports-art-heritage element to decorate the track.

The value of 100Plus' sponsorship is around $2 million.

This Saturday will also see the launch of an Experience Sports and Community Programme by the Sports Hub.

The initiative features different sports being featured at various areas of the Sports Hub every weekend, in partnership with national sports associations.

Participation is free and details can be found on the Sports Hub website.

Oon hopes to reach out to Singaporeans without prior experience in these sports, noting that it allows them to have fun and participate "without fear".

He also spoke about the Sports Hub's continual quest to secure more sponsorships, with naming rights being a significant pitch.

"This is a good chance for us to call to action for the other companies to follow 100Plus' lead," the former national swimmer added.

On the operational side of things, Oon pointed out that positive feedback had been received over the first round of sporting events - rugby World Club 10s, World University Floorball Championships and TYR South-east Asian Swimming Championships - that were held at the Sports Hub last week.

Areas of improvement have also been identified as the hub prepares to host its second round of events this weekend, which include the 2015 SEA Games countdown event tomorrow and the Singapore Chinese Orchestra's performance at the National Stadium on Saturday.