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Over 55,000 runners from around the world - a participation record - have gathered in Singapore for the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM) 2024 over the weekend.

Held over three days, close to 13,000 international runners from 84 countries registered for this year’s run - marking a nearly 33% increase compared to last year

As the Southeast Asia’s only World Athletics Gold Label race, SCSM 2024 set new benchmarks for endurance races in the region with the sea of the event’s green and blue running singlets filling the city with a lively celebration of athleticism and participation.

Starting with the Kids Dash on Friday (29th November), the weekend-long festivities featured with the 5km and 10km race categories on Saturday (30th November), followed by the Half Marathon (21.1km) and Marathon (42.195km) yesterday (1st December).

In addition, the Ekiden group relay returned this year, taking participants past some of Singapore’s most recognisable landmarks including Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay and East Coast Park.

With four changeover zones and a spectacular finish at the historic Anderson Bridge, the race allowed spectators to experience the excitement of team-based competition, as participants shared the journey to cover the marathon distance with their teammates.

Each runner received a curated race kit that included a race bib, SCSM running singlet, a runner’s gift, running sash, a finisher medal, and refreshments. The Ekiden runners also received a complimentary gear bag, along with unique Ekiden medals that symbolise teamwork and camaraderie - each of the five medals, featuring an iconic Singapore landmark, can be connected to form a single, cohesive piece.

Men’s Champion of the Gold Label Elite Marathon, Geoffrey Yegon from Kenya, triumphantly celebrates his win after crossing the finish line

In the Gold Label Elite Marathon, Geoffrey Yegon from Kenya claimed victory in the men’s category with a time of 02.16.06 while, in the women’s category, Fantu Zewude Jifar from Ethiopia emerged as the champion with a time of 02.39.04.

The pair each took home prize money of US$45,000.

The National Championship also featured outstanding performances, with Soh Rui Yong and Rachel See claiming the Men’s and Women’s marathon titles, respectively, each taking home SG$10,000.

Ongoing Growth of Mass Participation Events
With the SCSM providing another example of the global growth in mass participation running events,

Jeff Edwards, Managing Director of Asia for event organiser The IRONMAN Group, stated “the success of this year's marathon is a testament to the incredible dedication and passion of the athletes and both the local and international running community.

“From the elite runners to those participating for a personal milestone, the event has once again proven to be a celebration of endurance, achievement, and the spirit of competition.

“We are thrilled to see the marathon continue to grow in significance, attracting talented athletes from around the world. We’re thrilled with this year’s success and can’t wait to take the event to an even higher level in 2025.”

Roy Teo, Chief of Industry Development, Technology and Innovation from Sport Singapore, added “the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon is more than an annual race to our local running community.

“This event reflects our community's passion for running and is one of the most iconic marquee events that unites runners, supporters, and volunteers to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and resilience.

“This year’s record participation underscores the tremendous growth of sports in Singapore and solidifies SCSM's role as a cornerstone in the local and regional sporting calendar. Watching these elite athletes cross the finish line and push their limits is a true inspiration, reinforcing our commitment to nurturing a vibrant and inclusive sports culture in Singapore.”

Tourism Impact
Commenting on the tourism impact of SCSM, Ong Ling Lee, Executive Director, Sports & Wellness at the Singapore Tourism Board, went on to say “the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon brings together athletes from around the world, showcasing Singapore as a premier destination for international sporting events.

“The event has grown from strength to strength, and it’s inspiring to see how more international runners are choosing to run the marathon in Singapore, a strong testament to the overall experience the event and what a visit here provides these participants. We look forward to welcoming even more enthusiasts to experience Singapore’s vibrant sports scene."

Images: Runners at the starting line of the 10km race at the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2024 (top), organisers and sponsors flag the start of the SCSM marathon (middle) and Men’s Champion of the Gold Label Elite Marathon, Geoffrey Yegon from Kenya, triumphantly celebrates his win after crossing the finish line (Below). Credit: The IRONMAN Group.

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