Keeping it REAL! – This year’s REAL® Run is unlike previous editions, as it celebrates many firsts and recognises emergency responders.

TEXT: MUHD HAZIQ

In October, over 5,000 participants of REAL® (Regular Exercise Active Lifestyle) Run were in for a pleasant surprise as they were flagged off by Traffic Police Patrol Motorcycles, along with the Singapore Civil Defence Force’s Red Rhino spraying water jets across the starting line at Gardens by the Bay, The Meadow. Guest of honour Mr Amrin Amin, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Health, officiated the flag off.

REAL® Run 2019 marked the final segment of the three-part series run – Virtual Lifesavers, Protectors and REAL® Run. Participants of the Virtual Lifesavers Run and Protectors Run now possess the new trifecta medal as they complete this annual sporting event. These medals combine to form an exclusive insignia of the Home Team lifesavers and protectors.

As part of a new initiative this year, 41 participants, equipped with Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and/or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification, were identified with a Lifesavers Badge to recognise them as a first responder of REAL® Run.

“Since we know lifesaving skills, it is a calling to help, especially when we are at the scene of any accidents,” said Adele Yam, 28, who has received the Lifesavers Badge.

MAJ (NS) Su Caizheng, chairman of the REAL® Run organising committee shared: “In light of the SGSecure movement, we mooted this first-of-its-kind initiative for a running event to cultivate an emergency-prepared community that is skilled and ready to help others around and save someone’s life.”

Participants and their families also enjoyed a carnival at The Meadow with activities such as archery tag, water tag and pedal go-kart.