Australians sweep elite titles at Swissotel Vertical Marathon

SINGAPORE: A record number of 2116 people took on the challenge of racing to the top at the Swissotel Vertical Marathon on Sunday morning.

There were 14 categories in the competition — based on age and fitness.

Seasoned competitor Suzanne Walshman from Australia won in the women’s elite category in 7 minutes, 51.75 seconds.

It was her seventh time at the event and she also clocked her best timing.

Another Australian, debutant Darren James Wilson, was the champion in the men’s elite race. He clocked 7 minutes, 13.15 seconds.

"I have been doing stair climbing for just about 18 months now and I saw this race — one of the closest you can get from Australia," he said.

"It was a week after I did the Eureka Climb in Melbourne last week and I thought, well, while I am specifically training for it, might as well make use of some good form and bite the bullet."

"I left my family at home and they are waiting for a phone call," he added. "I can’t wait to ring them and tell them."

A few also made it a point to dress up for the race.

Andreas Wenger, who came dressed as the comic book hero Flash, went home with the prize for best—dressed climber.

— CNA/xq