Another run this year, decided to join back because the race fees are cheap, the goodies bag are good and bountiful and most importantly, I love the cosy environment there with the community feel.
The format is the same as last year, participants will swim for 800m and run for 5km at the Woodlands stadium, which had both the track and the swimming pool there. So basically you swim for 8 laps and 12 rounds of the track. To speak the truth, loop work is the best for good timing. The best part is the race pack collection is together with the race itself. So there is no need to have to make a special trip down to a race pack collection.
At the registration
Saw Sophia and Richard
Race Pack
It is really bountiful with a nice blue colour tee, towe, shoe bag and many sports related items inside. Participants also get a Finisher medal and there are a lot of hydration : isotonic drink and water. Bananas were the main energy food provided, which is what I like as it is natural.
Swim Leg
Running
As usual all the participants line up to be dispatched off, each participant is about 40 sec difference. This is to allow space and for the swimmers not to clash into each other. The faster swimmers will be able to go past using the right lane. This time round, I managed to overtake a couple of people, only one girl overtook me at the second last lane.
Transition Timing
Transition
Also improving on my transition timing, I wore back the vibrams which didnt require socks. Instead of walking to the track, ran to it and realise that it is actually pretty far with downslope. The track was getting warm because of the sun. But was glad I could finish the job pretty fast, by the time the guys come it it was scorching already. This year they put the running board in a shelter so that it does not fuse out, at the same time, folks can see their rounds clearer from the bright sunlight.
Ending it
Congrats to Richard winning
This event is very relaxing and free and easy. More like a bit community workout, participants can walk around the stadium and swimming pool freely and also mingle with the volunteers. I also end up helping doing some volunteer chores at the track. As usual, after returning the time chip, we got our super bountiful goodie bag. As usual, Richard managed his Podium once again. Happy for him!