Shape Run 2013 attracts 10,000 participants

Shape Run 2013 attracts 10,000 participants

SINGAPORE - Shape Run 2013, the eighth edition of Singapore's original women-only running event, concluded successfully this morning at Nicoll Highway.

Initially slated for July 7, the run, organised by Shape Singapore, a publication of SPH Magazines Pte Ltd, was postponed due to health concerns arising from the haze situation in the earlier part of the year. The wait, however, did not dampen the enthusiasm of the 10,000 participants of the Shape Run 2013 - all of whom came decked out in their cheery orange runner's vest.

New to this year's event was the non-competitive 2.4km stroller fun run, a novel race category specially created for new mothers and their children aged four years and below. Another new addition to the run was the introduction of five female pacers. The formerly all-male group was first introduced last year to guide runners to achieve their goal timings in the 10km and 5km races.

Joining the Shape Run for the first time was local celebrity Eunice Olsen, the cover girl for Shape magazine's November issue. Singapore Paralympians Yip Pin Xiu and Theresa Goh also graced the event.

The race village at Shape Run 2013 was also a fresh concept. Divided into four zones - Pamper, Fitness, Refuel and Cool Down, the race village treated participants to refreshments and freebies and showcased the latest health, beauty and fitness offerings from the run sponsors. Also new was the 45-minute dance workout led by True Fitness instructors.

Shape Run 2013 saw some excellent timings clocked at the 5km and 10km races. Topping the 10km category was Naomi Wambui Muriuki, who came in at 37 min 16 sec. The 2012 winning time was 39 min 52 sec. The 28-year-old professional athlete from Kenya bagged the $1,000 cash prize along with $8,000 worth of products and services.

The winner of the 5km race was 29-year-old Felista Wambui Kariuki, also a professional athlete from Kenya, who finished the run in 18 min 52 sec. Last year's record was 17 min 29 sec. She took home $500 in cash as well as products and services worth $5,000.

Li Yuling, Editor of Shape magazine, said: "The enthusiasm of our runners never fails to amaze me. This year, I want to salute all the mothers who completed the stroller fun run with their babies and toddlers. Thank you for loving Shape Run so much that you brought your kids along and setting a fine example for your families. Shape is proud to bring together so many women of different ages and walks of life, and we hope that this year's run has been absolutely enjoyable from start to finish."

Diana Lee, General Manager, Fashion & Beauty, SPH Magazines, said: "Since 2006, Shape Run has grown from strength to strength. As more races emerge, we are encouraged that Shape Run 2013 remains a firm favourite among women runners in Singapore. Their continued support spurs us to constantly improve the event. This year, we organised three training runs led by Shape Run pacers to help participants prepare for the race. The race village was also conceptualised based on the runners' needs and designed to enhance their post-run experience. Our sincere thanks also go to our sponsors and partners - without whom this event will not be the success that it is today."

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