Run for Heroes Singapore 2020

Taking place from now till 8th August, the Run For Heroes Singapore 2020 is a ground-breaking virtual run with the aim of rallying the nation together to support our healthcare and service front-liners.

Hoping to use sport to create an impact

This meaningful event, which is supported by Sport Singapore and SGUnited, as well as SingPost, hopes to use sport to create an impact, whilst at the same time hoping to galvanise a tangible show of support for the covid-19 front-liners in our community.

Complete a 1-kilometre run in your own leisure

Anyone can take part in the event; participants need only complete a 1-kilometre run or walk in either a single or multiple sessions.

For me, I have completed my 1-kilometre run recently at East Coast park in one session, timing the run using my trusty GPS watch.

Besides GPS watches, other acceptable devices also include running apps such as Strava and RunKeeper, as well as recognised pedometers and fitness trackers.

I also decided to combined the run with a photo-shoot that I was doing at the park, to kill two birds with one stone.

In line with Singapore’s covid-19 safe distancing measures to avoid the bulk of the crowds at the park, I did the run in the afternoon rather than the evening, before the sun went down and the evening joggers come out to play.

With the Run for Heroes being a virtual event, this means that we can complete the run anywhere we choose, including indoors or on a treadmill.

I had picked my location because it is within walking distance from my house. I prefer to run outdoors rather than indoors – so it meant that this aspect was a no-brainer for me.

Running four short 250-metre laps at the park, I completed the run in just under six minutes, a reasonable effort which I am happy with.

Proceeds will go to The Courage Fund

In line with the purpose of the event, all proceeds of the Run For Heroes go to The Courage Fund and each runner will receive a red and white wristband for themselves, and another in his/her name will be sent to a front-liner.

The organisers hope that wearing the wristbands allows everyone in Singapore to have a visible and recognisable symbol that will connect us all in a spirit of unity and solidarity.

The Courage Fund supports and provides relief to vulnerable individuals and families, including healthcare workers, front-line workers and volunteers affected by the covid-19 situation.

An all-inclusive event

With a registration fee of just $9.50 and a short distance, as well as a few months to complete the event, this is indeed an all-inclusive event and everyone, whether or not you are a runner, can help provide support and encouragement for our front-liners while fostering a stronger community spirit at the same time.