Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM) 2024 drew over 55,000 runners from around the globe for the three-day event that featured five race categories.

The event attracted nearly 13,000 international runners from 84 countries, marking a nearly 33 per cent increase compared to last year. Soh Rui Yong and Rachel See emerged victorious as the men’s and women’s champions in the Marathon category. In the Half Marathon, Shaun Goh and Vanessa Lee crossed the finish line first in their respective divisions.

SCSM 2024 concluded the weekend with record participation, a new finish line, and refreshed routes, setting new benchmarks for endurance races in the region. As the region’s only World Athletics Gold Label race, it saw over 55,000 runners take to the streets for the race, with journeys culminating at the historic Anderson Bridge. This year’s turnout included close to 13,000 international participants from 84 countries, surpassing 2023’s numbers and further strengthening SCSM’s global presence.

Marathon participants faced the ultimate endurance test with a 42.195km course that combined a robust and challenging run with stunning cityscapes and an eclectic atmosphere, bringing forth the SCSM spirit that encouraged runners to “Go Beyond” and push their limits.

The Ekiden race, a celebration of teamwork and camaraderie, made a welcome return at this year’s race. The group relay took participants past some of Singapore’s most recognisable landmarks including Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay and East Coast Park, among others. 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 iconic Singapore landmarks, can be connected to form a single, cohesive piece.

Gold Label Elite Marathon: a triumph of grit and endurance

In the Gold Label Elite Marathon, Geoffrey Yegon from Kenya claimed victory in the men’s category with a time of 02:16:06.

“It feels very good to win,” Geoffrey Yego said. “It’s my first time in Singapore and competing here. Coming from Kenya, the Singapore race was always ‘wow’ so have been wanting to come here. Singapore is very nice, but it is very hot, so I trained very hard in Kenya to try to win the race.”

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

In the women’s category, Fantu Zewude Jifar from Ethiopia emerged as the champion with a time of 02:39:04.

“Happy to have won, Singapore is a beautiful country to race in,” Fantu Zewude Jifar said. “I’m not sure what I’ll do with the prize money, but I know I can’t wait to come back to Singapore.”

Standard Chartered Singapore and ASEAN CEO, Patrick Lee said “At Standard Chartered, we are proud to support an event that not only celebrates extraordinary talent and determination but also brings together people from all walks of life.”

“This year’s marathon exemplifies the spirit of inclusivity, with elite runners, national champions, as well as everyday runners, individuals of different abilities, their caregivers, and our employee volunteers participating as one community. All these runners embody strength, focus, and resilience, qualities we hold dear and are thrilled to celebrate at this year’s marathon.

“This year, we’ve also raised funds for our Futuremakers programme, which will help to empower young people with the skills and opportunities to build a better future. This is a powerful reminder of how sport can bring people together, break down barriers, and inspire positive change in our communities.”

“The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon brings together athletes from around the world, showcasing Singapore as a premier destination for international sporting events,” Singapore Tourism Board executive director, sports & wellness, Ong Line Lee, said. “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.”

Winners of the Gold Label Elite Marathon Men’s and Women’s categories took home prize money of USD 45,000 (around AUD $69,200) each.