Race Media

Michael AW Yong: Leading up to MSIG Singapore Action Asia 50

Back in 2005, I weighed 82kg and had a BMI of 26.  My x- boss challenged me to run a marathon.  That started my journey towards leading an active, and healthy lifestyle.  With thrice weekly runs of 10km and longer on weekends, my BMI went into the healthy range after a year. 

Having benefited from this, a group of friends decided that we should encourage others to follow in our lifestyle.  That was where Gei Gei Running Club was born and I was given the honorary title of club president.  Our aim was simple.  To encourage people of all shapes, sizes and speed to lead an active lifestyle.

Our monthly runs have distances up to 10km with sweepers taking care of the slower runners.  We incorporate fun themes and photo taking opportunities culminating in the wide array of refreshments and prizes at the end of the event.  All these at no cost to participants because money can't buy health.

What motivates the committee most is when we see people thoroughly enjoying the activities and changing their lifestyle for the better.  If there is a fun factor injected into the activity, it will be sustainable.  Of course all these comes at a small price.  We fund these activities from our own pockets and from generous participants.

Most of the time spent in training programmes tailored towards achieving a certain target are during hours that do not eat into the family time or working hours, such as early in the morning or late at night.

My advise to fellow runners.  Dare to dream because I don't need easy I just need possible.

All the best of luck to Michael Yong in the upcoming MSIG Singapore Action Asia 50