After seven months of intensive preparations, the fourth edition of NTUC Income RUN 350 organised by Young NTUC saw a record turnout at the The Float@Marina Bay. Undeterred by the early start, more than 11,000 runners from 63 countries turned up on 7 April 2013 to run for the worthy cause. Gracing the event as Guest-of-Honour was NTUC Secretary-General Lim Swee Say, who was there to support the runners.
The event also saw NTUC Income Chief Executive Officer Tan Suee Chieh participating in the 10km run. A contingent of 300 NTUC Income staff also took part in the event, cementing the collaboration between Young NTUC and NTUC Income.
Said Mr Tan: “NTUC Income is proud to partner Young NTUC to present NTUC Income RUN 350. The event is considered Southeast Asia’s premier eco-run, promoting sustainability for the Earth and an active lifestyle. I am glad to see so many people embracing this opportunity to show their support for global climate action. By channelling their passion for running towards this important cause, they are personally contributing to a greener tomorrow.”
Young NTUC Executive Secretary Steve Tan was also heartened to see Young NTUC fostering a supportive attitude among the public towards a greener tomorrow. He reflected that Young NTUC was introduced to the international 350.org movement in 2009, which started the local chapter, 350.sg in that same year.
Mr Tan elaborated: “When we first started, many people did not know what the movement represents, but today, that has changed significantly. The run itself has grown a life of its own.” He added: “I walked past a runner who was explaining why the 350 cause is so important to his child. That touch point, to me, is the most gratifying part of Young NTUC’s 350 journey.”
The race continues to champion its list of green initiatives, such as the use of bio-diesel for race activities. The race pack collection also utilised a paper-less registration process. Runners were encouraged to cycle to the venue on race day, as bicycle racks were available on-site.
The conclusion of the race does not signify the end of the environmental efforts. Young NTUC would work closely with Garden City Fund‘s Plant-a-Tree Programme to implement the planting of more trees. An invitation would also be extended to get the runners involved in the activity.
