But this year, it would be held at night for the first time. That got me interested even though I hadn't enjoyed night races in the past like the Marina Run and Sundown Marathon. I wanted to see how Standard Chartered would do it differently.
The weather yesterday evening was cloudy and cool, which was great for running. Some complained about the humidity, but I was used to it.
The turnout was huge.
Flag-off was 6pm, but I didn't cross the starting line until 6.20pm.
1km.
I bumped into someone I know from my navy in-camp training back in the day. I don't remember his name. I was impressed he was doing the full marathon.
3km.
4km.
5km.
On Cecil Street.
6km.
7km.
I managed to get a blurry picture of Soh Rui Yong, who was the first Singaporean to finish the full marathon. Quite a number of runners were ahead of him, presumably non-Singaporeans.
8km.
9km.
This year's half marathon route was similar to last year's, going from the F1 Pit Building to West Coast Highway and back.
A random Elvis impersonator near Vivocity.
10km.
11km.
12km.
13km, just before the U-turn.
14km, heading back.
15km.
16km.
17km.
18km.
This was where I was very glad I didn't join the full marathon. I couldn't imagine going another 21km.
19km.
Her shirt says: "Fight for freedom, stand with Hong Kong". Does this count as a demonstration? Call the police!
20km.
21km.
Finish line in sight.
My last medal?
Not my best half marathon time, but 10 minutes faster than last year. So I guess I can retire from racing on a positive note.
So long.
