Singapore Biathlon cancelled as organisers focus on other commitments

SINGAPORE: The annual Singapore Biathlon has been cancelled — for the time being.

The race, which attracted about 2,000 competitors a year, had been around for 12 years and was usually held in the first quarter of the year.

Competitors have to swim 1.5 kilometres in the sea and run 10 kilometres.

The event was organised by SAFRA and the Republic of Singapore Navy.

SAFRA said in response to queries from MediaCorp on Thursday that it will review plans on the event in future.

For now, it will focus on its membership initiatives, as part of NS45 to recognise the contributions of NSmen.

As for the navy, it has pulled out as an organiser due to increased operational commitments.

For many endurance—sports enthusiasts, the Singapore Biathlon sets the pace of their race year as it is usually the first race of the year.

One of Singapore’s oldest endurance sportsmen, Chan Chan Seng, is disappointed with the decision.

Mr Chan, who’s 72, had been competing since his 50s.

"I’m very sad because I’ve been doing this for the past 10 years, since they started until last year. Actually, sometimes, it’s a meeting place for old friends — so many healthy strong men, from young to old, women, kids, also. It’s sort of a family gathering for everyone, actually," he said.

— CNA/de