"World Water Day 2012" Celebrations Weekender

Join Team FatBird in the "World Water Day 2012" Weekender on Mar 24 to:

Celebrate the Singapore World Water Day 2012 event at Marina Barrage.

FEES:  FREE TO PARTICIPATE

WHO: Open to all runners and friends who wish to have a fun run and outing (Max Capacity 120).

Date:  Saturday, 24 March 2012

Time: 7:00am - 11:00am

Start: UOB Plaza/FatBird Statue

Mid-Point: Marina Barrage (9:00am) for World Water Day Celebrations
End: UOB Plaza (10:50am) for River Cleanup 

Distance: 12km

Goodie Pails: For participants of this run @ FatBird Statue after the run

Baggage: There will be no baggage facilities provided.  Runners are advised to travel light with MRT ez-link card and some cash.

Pace:  This is a social group run at a sight-seeing pace of about 7-9min/km.  Stops will be made for re-grouping and photo opportunities.

Runing Outfit: TFB apparel preferable, in order of availability ->

- Blue TFB Singlet/Vest (2011 version)

- Other TFB Tees/Vests which you have

- If no TFB tops, just put on any blue or bright colored top

           

Celebrations & Activities @ Marina Barrage:

Guest of Honour:    President Tony Tan Keng Yam

* Group Run, Bike, Walk, Kayak to Marina Barrage along Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters (ABC Waters)

* Carnival and Flea Market at MB

* Stage performances

* Launch of ABC Waters Coffee Table book by NYAA

* Showcase of SingPost Stamps

* Prize Presentation for Water Conservation Competition

* View activities by community partners. 

Run Details & RSVP HERE (facebook) to indicate your attendance!

Ops NightHawk Wk#2: The Enchanting Reservoirs

FatBird Photo Slideshow from AC Leong, CK Chin

It was a warm day, turning cooler into the evening - just the right atmosphere for the first night training for the NightHawks.  The second weekend session of Operation NightHawk saw a good turnout at MR Amenities Centre, all looking forward to challenge themselves to the Reservoirs route they have heard so much about.

After briefings of the run requirements, route and safety tips for night running, the trainees were dispatched in groups along with their respective trainers and pacers.  The NightHawk Training Crew were doing a great job of guiding the runners, especially at critical junctions and important turning points.  The light sticks and flash lights don by the participants made it a sight to behold as the various groups ran in tight-knit bunches along the enchanting stretches of UPR and OUTR.

Although the groups started out still a tad fast for this BaseBuild phase, it was much improved over the first training last week.  As the conversations and sight-seeing (in the night?) began, the NightHawks were able to settle into more comfortable paces, contributing to many a strong finish on the return.

 

It was an interesting experience for many of the runners new to the route, made more exciting with the night running in groups flanked on both sides by dark, forested areas.  As the NightHawks warmed up, they started to listen to their bodies and a number experienced the benefits of having a stronger, sustainable run by starting up more conservatively...all made possible with the motivation and good-feelings of running in their respective pace groupings.

Starry, Starry Night - that was the song 'playing out in our heads' when we ran along the windy stretch of Seletar Reservoir Park, flanked on the left by the majestic body of water with the silvery reflection of the moon, and to the right the pitch-dark beauty of the forest.  From above, we could see flashing lights bobbing in as a group, and knowing them to be Group 3, shouted and waved at them in delight.  Once back onto the OUTR stretch, it was a quiet 3km stretch of delightful silence, where the sounds of uniformed strides provided the rhythm for a sustained pace home.

 Moans of relief and satisfaction were heard from some when we reached the small, dark road flanking the Little Sisters Of The Poor, indication that the end was very near.  With iced-cold Gatorade and bananas as the 'carrot' of the already drained and hungry bunch, we were striding powerfully and running 'tall', pushing forward like marathoners approaching the finish line.  The completion was sweet, and with timings reported, it was a time for debriefs and sharing of our night run experience.  With more night training runs to come, things can only get better as we progress towards Week #3 of Ops NightHawk.


The NightHawks Have Survived The Enchanting Reservoirs Run. YeeYa!

Operation NightHawk 2012: Smooth Kick-Off

Operation NightHawk 2012, Team FatBird's 12-week Night Marathon for Sundown 2012 kicked off to a smooth start this Saturday morning.  About 150 showed up for the first session in fine weather, some experienced with FatBird projects, many others new to FatBird training, but all excited that their journey for Sundown has finally started.

After registration and sizing, all trainees were introduced to the NightHawk Program briefly, before being briefed on the distances, routes and effort for the day's efforts.  As this was the first session, many of the newer participants were still getting accustomed to all the groupings and photo taking :)  Nonetheless, the run started off at 7:30am with the 4 groups dispatched in intervals of 30sec apart.

The ECP was still absent of runner groups as the NightHawks took their designated flight paths down towards Fort Road @ BaseBuild zone, not too fast, neither was it an amble.  Group 3 (2:30h, 5:00h) proved once again to be the largest group, with Group 4 quite similar in size.  The NightHawk Training Crew, which already gathered 3 weeks ago, was there to facilitate and guide the enthusiastic NightHawks, keeping them to a comfortable conversational pace.

There were lots of chatting and sharing going on, interspersed with the occasional walk breaks or water stops.  All that made for more sustainable efforts in what otherwise was a rather challenging morning in terms of weather and heat conditions.  At the end of 2-3hrs and 13-21km later, the NightHawks survived the first session in healthy form, all thanks to the conservative paces maintained throughout.  A number of trainees were surprised that they could venture so far with the feeling of a sub-maximal workload.

After their post-run replenishment at the water-hole, the NightHawks gathered under the shady field just outside The PlayCoast for a de-brief and instructions for Week 2's activities.  From the confident faces of the participants, coupled with feedback from the Training Crew, it seemed that this cohort of NightHawks came with a reasonably sound base and rather well prepared for the rigours of the Night Training Program.  Overall, it a great start for Ops NightHawk 2012, and we look forward to an exciting and fruitful journey as we enter into our first Night Training session in Week #2.


When Dusk Comes, The NightHawks Emerge!

NightHawk Photo Slideshow Session #1 from:
AC Leong
CK Chin

Ops Kookaburra 2012: Marathon Training For Gold Coast

Sunrise moments @ Gold Coast Airport Marathon

Now in its 33rd year, the Gold Coast Airport Marathon (GCAM) has regularly drawn praise for its organisation, as well as for being a fast and flat course with extremely good weather for running - a winning formula that has seen many personal bests fall by the wayside - Men's Health Gold Coast Airport Marathon (GCAM) Special Report

REGISTER FOR GOLD COAST AIRPORT MARATHON HERE!

Operation Kookaburra 2012 is HERE!

REGISTER HERE!

Participants who have signed up for RUN GOLD COAST Scenic Travel Package will enjoy the full training program for free!

OPERATION KOOKABURRA - Comprehensive Marathon Training Package price of $100 inclusive of:
1. 12-week Team FatBird Flight-ZonesTM Marathon Training Program incorporating the GCAM training guidelines and tailored to our trainees’ requirements

..........• Two levels of training - beginners and experienced runners
..........• Heart-Rate & Pace Training sessions.

..........• Weekday Tempo/X-Training workouts and Weekend Long Runs

..........• Experienced Pacers & Guides leading and guiding the runs

..........• Information and tips on Managing & Preventing Running Injuries,

............Running Performance, Sports Nutrition.

2.  Isotonic Drinks/Refreshments after long runs.

3. A "OPERATION KOOKABURRA" RACE DAY singlet/vest FOC

4. Special discounts on Running Apparel and Compression Products

5. eCertificates/Awards of completion/achievement.

Training will begin in April 2012 for successful applicants.

Click HERE Training Dates/Schedules for your planning purposes.

Click HERE for Frequently Asked Questions.

Register for training HERE!

Runners have been taking advantage of the specialised marathon training prepared by Team Fatbird -  Operation Kookaburra is based on Team FatBird's in-house fitness system and complemented with aspects of the Official Gold Coast Marathon Training Program.

  

Ops Kookaburra Lead-Up Run in Jan 2012

Please email to training@teamfatbird.com for queries and training info:

- Subject: Ops Kookaburra 2012

- Name,

- email,

- contact no.

Operation NightHawk 2012: Training Fully Subscribed

With the race course set against a backdrop of skyscrapers in the night in the city, the fifth year of the Sundown Marathon will be the most exciting night running event yet.  Team FatBird is happy to bring back the highly successful Operation NightHawk - our tried and tested structured night training program to help you Beat The Sunrise!

.

Operation NightHawk Runners Celebrate @ Sundown 2011


Operation NightHawk 2012 is HERE!

All Training Slots Are Fully Subscribed!
Email to training@teamfatbird.com to be placed on waiting list.

This edition of Operation NightHawk delivers even better value with additional training sessions, enhanced equipping discounts from New Balance & 2XU Compression to provide you the ultimate night marathon training experience.

OPERATION NIGHTHAWK - Comprehensive Marathon Training Package price of $109 (HM/FM) inclusive of:
1. 12-week Team FatBird (www.teamfatbird.com) Flight-Zones™ Night Marathon Training Program.
..........• Heart-Rate & Pace Training sessions.
..........• 2 weekday runs & 1 weekend long run
..........• Experienced Marathoners and Pacers leading and guiding the runs
..........• Information and tips on Managing & Preventing Running Injuries,
............Running Performance, Sports Nutrition.
..........• Isotonic Drinks/Refreshments after long runs.
2. A New Balance "OPERATION NIGHTHAWK" TRAINING tee FOC
3. A pair of New Balance shorts FOC
4. A New Balance "OPERATION NIGHTHAWK" RACE DAY singlet/vest FOC to trainees who meet attendance criteria (50% weekend sessions).
5. A one-time 50% kit-up discount of New Balance apparel, shoes, products.
6. Special discounts on 2XU Compression Products
7. Race Night Hospitality Tent/Massage/Refreshment for Ops NightHawk participants
8. eCertificates/Awards of completion/achievement.

Training will begin in March 2012 for successful applicants.
Click HERE Training Dates/Schedules for your planning purposes.
Click HERE for Frequently Asked Questions.

Email to training@teamfatbird.com to be placed on waiting list:

- Subject: Ops NightHawk 2012

- Name,

- email,

- contact no.

FatBirds On TV 前线追踪FRONTLINE

前线追踪FRONTLINE MediaCorp Channel 8

With the growing popularity of running as a healthy lifestyle, there has recently been quite a fair bit of coverage in the media, especially the Newspapers and various Health Magazines on the local running and marathoning scene.  FRONTLINE, a mandarin current affairs program by Mediacorp Channel 8 too produced a topic on running, touching on Lim Nghee Huat and his recent UltraMarathon pursuits in Brazil, local runners who run as a way of keeping fit, and then there was a short segment on running groups and their members, of which Team FatBird was approached to be featured.

It all happened within a short span of time - the FRONTLINE media crew was so efficient that they flew down to town barely 2 hours after contacting us.  It was just nice that we were having the weekly i-Run, a group running programme organized by the Health Promotion Board and sponsored by 100Plus.  The FRONTLINE producer spoke to various runners on why we ran, how long we have been running as well as the benefits we have received as regular runners and marathoners.

The end result was a nice clip where the FatBird Runners and friends shared our personal experiences and the good we have received out of running, like making lots of friends and sharing a common goal of keeping fit and healthy with motivation and support from the group of runners who run regularly.  

Thanks to BTing for capturing the video clip directly during the airing, and putting it online to share with all of us....and the pictures do look rather clear, thanks to her steady hands.

2XU Compression Lead Up Run

Photo Contributions: Marcus Lim, AC Leong (Album 1, Album 2), Tan Kim Lai

To commemorate the 2XU PWX Grand Launch, Team FatBird was tasked to organize a lead up run to put in some preparations for those who have signed up or intending to sign up for the 2XU Compression Run in April.     Special offers of the latest range of 2XU Compression wear were thrown in for good measure.

With the many runners attending overseas marathons (HK, BKK, TNF Thailand) and local races (Zoo Safari, TriFam event),  we still had about 70 runners show up at Velocity @ Novena for a nice Sunday run into MacRitchie Reservoir (MR) along road and trails.  Runners showed up in their 2XU Compression gear to test them out, and some even came with the newly launched Brooks PureProject line for some minimalist shoe trials.

It was nice to see many familiar FatBird faces, and yet was interesting to meet up with runners new to the team and our format of lead up runs.  The Key Power (KPI) staff was there by 8:15am to give full support to the lead up run, making it possible for us to store our baggage, have a good briefing, some great group photos and a nice dynamic warm-up before heading towards MR.  We had 7 dedicated FatBird Running Guides for this run to manage the tricky road crossings and parts of the MR trails which were new to many.

We had a rather smooth 2km to MR, stopped for a break and photo shot at the Amenities Centre, before proceeding onto Lornie Trails.  Many of us have not been to this part for some time, as most FatBird training sessions in MR run along the more challenging Northern Trails.  It was cool and refreshing along the trails as our large group kept to one side to allow access on the other by oncoming runners.  By the time we hit the U-Turn near Lornie Road, most of the runners were already having a good workout from the MR slopes.  A smaller group went by Lornie Road while the main group went back along the trails, all converging back at the Amenities Centre by 10am.

Lots of catching up and questions about the 2XU Compression, Brooks PureProject shoes, Ops NightHawk training and even some bits about our team's recent interviews in the media kept the whole group occupied and minds off the challenges of the terrain.  It was a happy moment for all at the Amenities Centre as all had covered 10km by then and were just 2km from home base.  The sun was just about coming up as we headed back, the whole journey rather smooth throughout.  The cold 100-Plus served by the KPI staff were just rewards for the 2XU runners, and with some cool-down stretches done, we ended the run by 11am.

That was followed by purchases of 2XU Compression merchandise and signing up of the 2XU Compression Run (the 12km lead up run was just the final encouragement and motivation needed for the fence-sitters to ink their names on the 2XU Run registration forms).  We wish all participating at the 2XU Compression Run a good race in April, and given the good base we saw in many of the runners, they should all be doing just great!

2XU Compression Lead Up Run

Event Details and RSVP your attendance HERE!

Vibram Five Fingers (VFF) exclusive

FatBirds who do not have Training Cards (membership) can show your I/C for verification.  

Please send queries about this promotion or other FatBird discount programs to teamsales@teamfatbird.com. 

FatBird Membership

Participants of FatBird training programs (NightHawk, Kookaburra, Kingfisher, Sunbird) and FatBird-led runs (i-Run, U Run, Weekenders) are automatically part of Team FatBird.  There are no membership fees for group runs, but there are training contributions to participate in training programs.  To begin your journey to becoming a FatBird member, please follow the following steps:

1.  ‘Like’ the Team FatBird Facebook Page 

2.  Visit HERE for more info on FatBird-led Runs.

3.  Register your interest for future runs with us HERE 

4.  You will be advised of marathon training programs from time-time when they are available

REGISTER HERE for FatBird Runs and member offers.

ORDER HERE for FatBird Running Top.

CLICK HERE for Team FatBird's Profile

FatBird 'Enter The Dragon' Holiday Weekender

Photo Contributions From CK Chin, Marcus Lim (Album 1, Album 2), AC Leong, Susie Lim, Ngatimin, Tan Tick Hock

When we did the FatBird Circle Line Weekenders from Oct-Dec 2011, the Labrador Park Berlayer Creek and Coastal Walk had yet to be open.  With the Chinese New Year of the Dragon, we decided on a CNY Holiday Weekender to bring the FatBird runners to the scenic areas of the Labrador Reserve & Coastal Walk, Keppel Marina, Berlayer Creek and the Cantebury Estates (which many have been asking to visit).

90+ enthusiastic FatBirds showed up on what was a cloudy, windy and cool morning at the Labrador Park MRT.  Lots of well-wishing of Gong Xi Fa Cai and Happy New Year amongst the runners ensued, many whom have not met up since the SCMS in Dec 2011.  After a quick brief at 7:30am, we proceeded on to the Dragon Tooth via the Labrador Park tunnels & Park.  We had a different angle shot of the group at the Dragon Tooth, and then broke out into a series of vocals, cheers and song-singing which were to be the highlights at each of the day's auspicious spots of 'Bu Bu Gao Shen', 'Yi Fan Feng Shun' and 'Fu Xing Gao Zhao'.

The FatBirds soaked in the sights and the festive atmosphere of the Dragon New Year, singing along and posing for pictures as they jog along the Keppel Marina area.  The area comprising of multi-million dollar apartments and boats represent a sign of prosperity and wealth along the Dragon vein of water.  As we posed for group photos and sang songs of Gong Xi Gong Xi and Cai Shen Dao, the air was full of hopes for that lucky streak at the 4D and Toto in the coming week, and not forgetting being in the pink of good health and running strong in the new year.

8km later, we were back at the Labrador Park MRT for our journey into the 'Fu Xing Gao Zhao' Canterbury Estates of Colonial Bungalows.  A number of FatBirds left from the Labrador Park MRT while the rest of us continued onto our merry ways into the HortPark area.  Some jump shots and happy shouts of Gong Xi Gong Xi later, we went into the quiet enclave of the Canterbury Estates.  Many of the FatBirds were impressed with the lush and serene landscape of the estate, with most of the houses having their own swimming pools, with nearby football fields and clay tennis courts.

FatBirds singing Gong Xi Gong Xi, video courtesy CK Chin

We had a final stop at the HortPark toilet before finishing off the 13.8km (Huat Ah!) distance back at Labrador Park MRT.  After a quick wash-up, we proceeded to the nearby MacD for breakfast while other groups went for prata at the foot of Mt. Faber.  We were lucky to miss the scorching sun which began to emerge at 11am.  A very well-attended and good participation from all the runners made this FatBird Holiday Weekender a most enjoyable and fitting one for the festive spirit of the Chinese New Year.  With that we would like to wish all FatBird Runners and friends Gong Xi Fa Cai and Huat AH!!!

Operation NightHawk 2012: REGISTRATION OPENS!

With the race course set against a backdrop of skyscrapers in the night in the city, the fifth year of the Sundown Marathon will be the most exciting night running event yet.  Team FatBird is happy to launch Operation NightHawk 2012 - our tried and tested structured night training program to help you Beat The Sunrise!

The moment you have been waiting for.
Operation NightHawk 2012 Opens For Registration!

REGISTER HERE!

This edition of Operation NightHawk delivers even better value with additional training sessions, enhanced equipping discounts from New Balance & 2XU Compression to provide you the ultimate night marathon training experience.

OPERATION NIGHTHAWK - Comprehensive Marathon Training Package price of $109 (HM/FM) inclusive of:
1. 12-week Team FatBird (www.teamfatbird.com) Flight-Zones™ Night Marathon Training Program.
..........• Heart-Rate & Pace Training sessions.
..........• 2 weekday runs & 1 weekend long run
..........• Experienced Marathoners and Pacers leading and guiding the runs
..........• Information and tips on Managing & Preventing Running Injuries,
............Running Performance, Sports Nutrition.
..........• Isotonic Drinks/Refreshments after long runs.
2. A New Balance "OPERATION NIGHTHAWK" TRAINING tee FOC
3. A pair of New Balance shorts FOC
4. A New Balance "OPERATION NIGHTHAWK" RACE DAY singlet/vest FOC to trainees who meet attendance criteria (50% weekend sessions).
5. A one-time 50% kit-up discount of New Balance apparel, shoes, products.
6. Special discounts on 2XU Compression Products
7. Race Night Hospitality Tent/Massage/Refreshment for Ops NightHawk participants
8. eCertificates/Awards of completion/achievement.

Training will begin in March 2012 for successful applicants.
Click HERE Training Dates/Schedules for your planning purposes.
Click HERE for Frequently Asked Questions.

Register for limited slots HERE!

Please email to training@teamfatbird.com for any clarifications or queries.

- Subject: Ops NightHawk 2012

- Name,

- email,

- contact no.

Happy Chinese New Year 2012

Team FatBird wishes all Members, Runners and Friends a Happy, Healthy and Happening Dragon New Year!

Running Clubs In Singapore: Team FatBird featured

SLOG IT OUT TOGETHER: Straits Times 21 January 2012

Team FatBird is honored to be mentioned as one of the largest running clubs in Singapore.

"A 2006 study conducted by American scientists found that group running may offer more benefits than long, solo runs"

"Being part of a group means greater commitment and accountability on the part of the individual, and less procrastination...no more what ifs", said Lynn Woo of Team FatBird

"Jacqueline Tan believes joining Team FatBird was one of the best decisions she has made."


Team FatBird is grateful and appreciative of the participation and support from all FatBird Runners and Members which helped make us one of the fastest-growing running groups in Singapore. Lets look forward to more great fun and 'happening' training and group runs together in the Dragon Year! GO, FATBIRDS, GO!

Ops Kookaburra 2012: Lead-Up

To prepare Gold Coast Airport Marathon (GCAM) 2012 participants for the journey, Team FatBird put together a Ops Kookaburra Lead-Up run at the ECP.  About 70 runners showed up, all eager to soak in the promised new and challenging route from East Coast Park to Bedok Reservoir Park, along scenic Park Connectors through the enclave of housing estates.

Facebook Pictures from Ronnie Goh, Susie Lim, Tan Kim Lai, Ngatimin

The 2-hour 15km to/fro allowed experienced GCAM marathoners and Kookaburra Running Guides to share with the participants important nuggets of information and advice for the marathon training and preparations for the GCAM journey.  In the end, it turned out to be a rather challenging, but fulfilling workout for all, and the participants went away with good information to prepare for Kookaburra training, which will begin in April 2012.

Ops Kookaburra Information & FAQs HERE!
Contact Scenic Travel for RUN GOLD COAST Package HERE!
Register For Ops Kookaburra 2012 Training HERE!

Men's Health: Gold Coast Airport Marathon Special

Men's Health Article: Gold Coast Airport Marathon Special: Run And Fun All-In-One

Lovely beaches, good weather and a fast, flat course: Little wonder so many Gold Coast Airport Marathon (GCAM)  runners end up beating their Personal Best (PB)! Find out what some other participants have to say about the race – and start planning a different type of vacation this year!

CLICK TO READ FULL ARTICLE

Now in its 33rd year, the GCAM has regularly drawn praise for its organisation, as well as for being a fast and flat course with extremely good weather for running -- a winning formula that has seen many personal bests fall by the wayside...runners have been taking advantage of the specialised marathon training prepared by Team Fatbird. Operation Kookaburra is based on Team FatBird's in-house fitness system and complemented with aspects of the Official Gold Coast Marathon Training Program.

Four first-time GCAM runners from Singapore, Winston Wong, Susie Lim, Lim Yian Soon, and Charlotte Teoh share their experience and journey of preparations and training for the race - CLICK TO READ!