5,000 people take part in Home TeamNS run with inaugural torch relay

SINGAPORE - A total of 5,000 participants took part in the 20th annual REAL (Regular Exercise, Active Lifestyle) Run today at Sentosa.

Comprising 10km and 5km competitive and recreational run categories on road and sand terrains, the run also saw for the first time a "HomeTeamNS Celebrates Life" torch relay, with 20 NSFs and NSmen from Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) running the 5km route.

The torch relay serves to honour the 180,000 Home Team NSmen for their contributions towards Singapore's safety and security, as HomeTeamNS marks its 10th Anniversary, and celebrates 20 years of REAL Run.

The event was flagged off by Guest-of-Honour Mr Masagos Zulkifli, Minister for Prime Minister's Office, Second Minister for Ministry of Home and Foreign Affairs, and President of HomeTeamNS.

Said Mr Masagos: "Regular Exercise, Active Lifestyle" remains a key part of a fulfilling NS life. Hence, I am delighted that REAL Run, touted as the toughest 10km race in the nation has been well-received by the runners for the last two decades, and continues to be an event that binds SPF and SCDF forces. I am also heartened that this year's run will be extra special as we commemorate 10 years of HomeTeamNS, 20 years of REAL Run and 40 years of Police NS as part of SG50 celebrations. Moving forward, HomeTeamNS will spearhead more innovative initiatives that will raise NSmen's fitness standards and advocate a healthy lifestyle among NSmen and their families."

The run was also attended by the Commissioner of Police, Mr Hoong Wee Teck, and the Commissioner SCDF, Mr Eric Yap Wee Teck.

candicec@sph.com.sg