In an inspiring celebration of inclusivity, the 10th anniversary of Run For Inclusion took place on 9 November 2024, gathering over 1,800 participants at Singapore’s scenic Jurong Lake Gardens. Organised by Runninghour, Singapore’s pioneering inclusive sports co-operative, Run For Inclusion 2024 marked a decade of bridging communities, fostering empathy, and championing the integration of persons with special needs (PWSNs) into the broader society.
Graced by Mr. Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, and Ministry of Social and Family Development, the event unfolded with inspiring energy. Mr. Chua flagged off the 10km race and later joined the Signature Blindfold Run/Walk, where participants walked blindfolded alongside guides, experiencing the world through the eyes of the visually impaired.
This unique initiative offered a powerful reminder of the everyday challenges faced by those with visual impairments, sparking empathy and encouraging participants to reflect on inclusivity in their own lives.
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A Milestone of Integration and Inclusion
Run For Inclusion 2024 brought together participants of all abilities, from 3km and 5km run/walks to a 15km cycling route with tandem bike options explicitly designed for PWSNs. Such diversity in the activities offered underscored Runninghour’s mission: to break down social barriers and demonstrate the strength of an inclusive society.
Adding to the significance of the event were guests like Mr. Daisuke Kakihara and Ms. Liang Yu from the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Singapore, symbolising broad community support for the cause. The event became a true cross-cultural celebration, showing that the drive for inclusivity transcends borders and brings people from different backgrounds together.
Runninghour’s Decade-Long Legacy of Inclusion
Since its founding in 2009, Runninghour has dedicated itself to enhancing the lives of PWSNs through sports. The co-operative offers a variety of weekly activities, from runs and yoga to fitness classes and hikes, providing PWSNs with regular opportunities to boost fitness, make friendships, and feel valued.
This sense of belonging extends beyond the track—Runninghour’s 450 volunteer guides from over a dozen nationalities have built enduring bonds with participants, creating friendships that support and uplift all involved.
As Chris Hortin, Chairperson of Runninghour Co-operative, aptly puts it,
Run For Inclusion is more than just an event; it’s a movement that celebrates the strength of our community and the spirit of togetherness. For the past ten years, we’ve been uniting people from all walks of life to raise awareness and promoting a more inclusive Singapore. I am inspired every year by the commitment and joy of our participants, who make this event an unforgettable experience.
A Growing Movement of Inclusivity and Community Engagement
This year, Run For Inclusion expanded its activities through an exciting collaboration with Passion Wave @ Jurong Lake Gardens. Participants enjoyed kayaking, dragon boating, and pedal boating, providing more avenues to connect and celebrate inclusion within nature’s beauty.
Through the years, the event has grown with the help of partners like Central Singapore Community Development Council, Singapore National Co-operative Federation, Farrer Park Hospital, and Ripple Hydration. Their support has enabled Runninghour to reach a broader audience and amplify its message of inclusion across Singapore.
More Than Sports: Empowering Lives, Building Resilience
Run For Inclusion and Runninghour’s ongoing weekly programs work to reshape societal perceptions of PWSNs, breaking stereotypes and fostering respect and understanding. This mission goes beyond physical fitness—it’s about empowering PWSNs to build resilience, feel valued, and connect meaningfully with others. Events like these remind us all that sports can be a powerful equaliser, uniting diverse individuals and fostering a genuine sense of community.
As we look forward to another decade of Run For Inclusion, it’s clear that Singapore is setting a valuable example in creating a more compassionate and connected society. Those inspired to join or support Runninghour’s initiatives can visit their website to learn more about weekly sports activities that welcome all members of the community.
Run For Inclusion 2024 proves that when people come together in the spirit of empathy and shared experience, we all move closer to a more inclusive future.
