Yellow Ribbon Project Run 2015

The Yellow Ribbon Project started in 2004 and it’s objective is to raise awareness of the need to give second chances to ex-offenders and their families and inspire community action to support rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-offenders back into society.

This is an unique race of its own which no other runs can imitate. One of the motto of this race, “You aim for the finish, they aim for a start“. The aim of the race is obvious, needless to describe more. This is my only small way to show support to the ex-offenders as I believe a mistake can be forgiven if one is willing to change.

I had ran this race before in 2009 (anyway that was the 1st year the run was organised) and was happy with the overall organisation of the race. However the race medal wasn’t a medal but a paper weight. And that was the reason why I stopped running this race. Now I am back to run this race to lend my support for the ex-offenders after a gap of 4 years.

Registration

Registration was smooth with no complaints in particular. The website has attractive posters right from the start to attract runners.

Training

As this race had many slopes towards the end of the race, I am making use of this race for training instead. I will be running this race with a relax pace thus did not specifically train for it. Sometimes I enjoy such “no aim” kinda race as I would not be as nervous.

Race pack collection

I went to collect the race pack on Sunday (after AHM) and there wasn’t a queue at all. The race expo was in Orchard Central with only a handful of booths hanging around.

The race pack was packed in a yellow plastic string-drawn bag. There were a couple of vouchers on things that I never buy. A mini sized heat rub adequate for one time use on a small muscle part. The only unique and useful item in the race pack is the waist belt (Black and pink)which can be used to keep light personal belongings while running. I have not used such belts without water bottles (my current waist water belt consist of 2 bottles at the back)before thus unable to comment. From the looks and material, i hope it’s able to last a few washes.

Day before Race

Today is much more relaxed than my last race, Army Half Marathon. Probably is due to the shorter distance and the fact that I am running for a good cause. The thought about running a route which one can only access once a year just increase the thrill further.

Race Day

The weather looked good when I stepped out of my place. The worry of starting the race at 7.45am feeling scorching hot just faded away.

Upon reaching the race precinct after a short walk from Changi Village, there were many clear signages to direct runners. This was a plus point to avoid confusion.