SINGAPORE – As part of initiatives to commemorate 50 years of National Service (NS) this year, the Safra Singapore Bay Run & Army Half Marathon will introduce a special NS50 Team Run category.

This will provide an opportunity for past and present Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) to form teams of 10, with each completing 5km to clock a total of 50km together in commemoration of NS50.

The aim is for these NSmen to come together and further strengthen their NS bonding at the race, which is also marking its Silver Jubilee on August 20. Participants in this new category will receive limited edition finisher T-shirts and special commemorative medals.

The Team Run adds to the event’s four categories: the 21km Army Half Marathon, SAFRA 10km race, Safra 5km Fun Run and the 800m Family Challenge. SAF NSmen and family members of NSmen will enjoy special rates across these categories in recognition of their contributions to Singapore’s defence and support for NS respectively.

Other initiatives to commemorate NS50 include a limited edition Silver Jubilee shoe bag in the race packs for Nsmen, their families and the generla public, as well as fun-filled activities to enjoy after the run at the Padang. These will include activities like face-painting and a mini obstacle course at the race village.

Colonel (NS) Simon Lim, Chairman of the event’s organising committee and Director of National Service Affairs, Ministry of Defence, said: “This is a significant year as we commemorate the role of NS and the contributions of generations of National Servicemen in Singapore’s continued stability and progress.

“The NS50 Team Run is one of the many initiatives that we will be introducing at this year’s event. The commitment of our NSmen has played a critical role in enabling us to achieve this significant milestone, and we hope that many of them will participate in this new category to rekindle their NS friendships, to join the run together and keep their camaraderie strong.”

Jointly organised by Safra and the Army, the event aims to promote fitness and bonding amongst SAF active servicemen, NSmen and their families. It attracted 42,000 participants last year.

* Registration for the event is open at www.safra.sg/ssbr_ahm