From 2026, Singapore’s only national marathon event enters a new phase. The BYD Singapore International Marathon presented by adidas will continue its role as Singapore’s national marathon weekend.
HISTORY
OUR HISTORY.
THE ROAD THAT MADE US.
We’ve always been running. Through sweat, heat, and history too.
Since 1982, Singapore’s national marathon has brought runners onto the streets year after year. What began as a single race has grown into a defining fixture on the city’s sporting calendar, shaped by endurance, community, and the unmistakable rhythm of the city itself.
Read through the moments that shaped the marathon, from its earliest steps to the chapters that followed and the people who carried it forward.
1982
FIRST STEPS
Singapore hosts its first national marathon event, marking the start of a new chapter in mass participation road running, and putting Singapore on the world stage of organised races.
1984
GOING STRONG
Early editions demonstrate strong public interest with more than 11,000 runners participating, securing the marathon’s place on Singapore’s annual sporting calendar.
1989
HOMEGROWN CHAMPIONS
Singaporean runners Ricky Khoo and Toh So Liang achieve landmark victories, reinforcing national pride and homegrown excellence in distance running.
1998
MARATHON SAVED
The marathon distance is retained as a core feature of the event, ensuring Singapore continues to host a full 42.195km road race, instead of a standalone half-marathon.
2004–2008
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
The event becomes part of ‘The Greatest Race in Earth’ series, an international marathon series, and strengthens Singapore’s profile as a global sports host.
2012
GOLD LABEL STATUS
The full marathon attains World Athletics Gold Label Road Race status, placing it among a select group of internationally recognised events.
2020
THE VIRTUAL SHIFT
With in-person mass-participation events suspended in Singapore, the national marathon event shifts to virtual formats, allowing runners to participate safely while maintaining community connection.
2021
THE COMEBACK YEAR
Mass participation resumes, bringing runners and supporters back to Singapore’s roads.
2024–2025
RENEWED MOMENTUM
Course updates and finish-line locations reflect a renewed focus on heritage, community experience, and city identity.
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