Singapore Marathon - Run or Not

Registration process

It's super easy to sign up and pay via website, and you will receive a confirmation email.

Price

Singapore is an expensive city and it must not be cheap in the place like that to close the streets and set up the course - even if at dawn. Still, the price - compared to other big marathons - is on the affordable, cheaper side.

Communication

Okay, I know I might be a little bit overboard but, every time I sign up for a run, I have some additional questions or problems I need to discuss with organisers (read - I am bloody annoying asking questions like where are the toilets and how many? do they give bananas or apples? etc.). However, this way I can also find out how well they communicate with participants. Singapore Marathon people were quick, polite and straight to the point.

Expo

Yes, it was good. Plenty of stalls and stuff, but I have seen bigger and better ones. It was also a long way from the MRT station and no signage for most of the way. I was forced to go through all the expo to get out of there. I know, most expos are now set up like that but hey, this is my personal review. I was tired, it was hot, noisy and I really wanted to just visit a couple of stalls and go.

Goodie bag and giveaways

Goodie bag is actually a simple but useful backpack. Nice samples inside. Awesome vest to run and then another great finishers t-shirt and of course... a giant medal.

Weather conditions

It is not a place to run for a faint-hearted. The heat and humidity will get you even before you start. Unless you live or train in a similar climate forget about any PBs or PRs. Just finishing the run is a great achievement. 28C at night and 32C during the day.

Course

I actually really enjoyed running super early in the morning through the deserted and quiet downtown, then it got a bit too dark and spooky, but that's okay, it just made the run more interesting. My least favourite part was 15-16 km long stretch up and down East Cost Park... boring. Also, it was just a footpath in the park, not even closed to other people walking, cycling, playing.

Amenities on the course

Plenty of water stations, fuel, energy drinks, pain relief creams etc. However, like almost always and everywhere - not enough toilets... there will never be enough toilets.

Post race village and facilities

Bananas and water, and then... you need your (working in Singapore) mobile phone to get anything else, and on the spot share lots of stuff on your social media.

Verdict

Run only if you have any experience running in hot and humid conditions. Beat the merciless heat and discover what you're made of! It is the most unique way to see Singapore and quite nicely organised.