It was around Christmas time; a time of giving. And in that spirit
the
Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon gave Singapore its share of
‘first-times’ and another star for the Marathon record book.
The Dream Course
Without much argument, the debut route has been described by internationals
and locals alike as “world-class” and “the best by far”. Strategically
chosen to maximise participant, supporter and spectator satisfaction,
the flat, shady and visually stunning course was made more enjoyable
with full route closure – a first for the record books.
‘Party-cipants’ and Trailblazers
Taking advantage of the ‘king of the road status’ many came out in
droves unleashing their creativity and zest for life. They came as
‘The Orange man’, fairies (now what do you call male fairies?) and
clowns trying to upstage the mascots, the tortoise and the hare.
As with all world-class marathons, the magnet drew only the best endurance
runners who showed us the art of how to wear out a good pair of shoes
in a day.
For the die-hard running fans, it was a dream come true to see idols
like ex-US Olympian Mark Coogan and Romanian Constantina Dita first
time in their backyard, and within touching distance.
For Dita, she didn’t disappoint her fans as she cruised to obliterate
Denmark’s Kersei Jacobsen’s 16-year old Singapore Marathon record
by 2 mins 57 seconds. The Men’s Open almost witnessed another record
when Kenyan Joseph Riri returned in 2:18.49. 20 seconds short of toppling
Swedish Tommy Terson’s 18-year old record.
A Swell of Pride
Professional athletes were not the only one to make the milestones.
The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon also saw a record of 6225
entries – a sharp 97% increase in participants as compared to the
previous marathon. And judging from their response, 92% of them declared
that they would rope in another soul to join them in this year’s event.
Now that would put as swell to things!
When The Chips Are Down – On Your Shoes!
Another first that has stamped Singapore on the world marathon map
is the use of the ChampionChip timing technology. This progressive
timing system used in large meets like the Boston and London Marathons,
proved itself a huge asset in Singapore, eliminating timing errors
and storing all individual run times that are internationally recognised
as certified true times.
The Marathon Expo held at the Pan Pacific Hotel was also hailed as
first of its kind. It was here that participants saw their distinguished
breed assembled in strength, displaying for the first time, the sheer
magnitude of the participation level and the religious-like aura that
emanated from many a “trained” runner.
The Winners’ Circle
And for the first time in Singapore Marathon history, finisher medals
were awarded to anyone who crossed the finish line in their respective
category; no matter what time they arrived.
Another first, that’s worn and kept with pride was the elusive and
exclusive finisher T-shirt. Only given to those that completed the
Marathon proper, it remains to this day, by many an endearing symbol
of their personal triumph and glory.
The medal and T-shirts may be what’s physically left of last year’s
race, but for the 6225 participants, the countless fans, friends,
spectators and observers, the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon
2002 was made for very, very good memories.
Don’t believe it? Check out the picture
gallery!
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