Photo Credit: SportPlus
The AirAsia Kallang Run 2025 transformed the Singapore Sports Hub into a festival of togetherness, travel dreams, and family bonding — proving that running is much more than competition.
From aviation-themed decor to scenic routes along the Kallang Basin, participants of all ages and abilities came together to celebrate fitness while spending quality time with loved ones.
With $50 AirAsia flight vouchers for the first 1000 sign-ups and a lucky draw for free flight tickets to Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, and Thailand, it was the perfect reward for a workout around one of Singapore’s most iconic areas.
Photo Credit: SportPlus
And with the Best Dressed Competition — eventually won by a runner dressed as Mario from head-to-toe, the event captured the imagination of both avid runners and families looking for an active weekend together.
Photo Credit: SportPlus
A run for every kind of runner
The AirAsia Kallang Run was not about podium finishes but about participation and an opportunity to challenge themselves. “I wanted to test myself, it’s not every time I join these types of sports events so why not just go for it?” shared a 10km finisher.
“It was tiring but the view more than made up for it and my perseverance led me to this medal. Overall, it was a great experience and I’ll definitely join again next year.”
Among the thousands of participants was 60-year-old chemist Lia Marahusin and her 28-year-old son, Toh Wei Kang. For them, the event wasn’t just a run — it was another chapter in their inspiring mother-son journey.
“We were invited to join Special Olympics Singapore’s - Athletics (Long Distance Running) group, and that was where Wei Kang and I first started running,” Lia shared.
Wei Kang, who also enjoys swimming and bowling, doesn’t have a fixed “pet event,” but looks forward to inclusive runs like the AirAsia Kallang Run.
Soaking in the views and growing together
For Lia and Wei Kang, running has never been just an activity to keep fit, but a chance to be together in the present, strengthening their bond. “It definitely allows us to spend more quality time together, and we also sweat together,” Lia shared.
Already sharing so many precious memories, The AirAsia Kallang Run has added another to their growing list of shared experiences. “It was good. We loved the run. We ran together with the Special Olympics Singapore community.”
“The highlight was when we finished the race. We felt good that we finished safely, and it was an achievement that we did it together. I am proud that we managed to run almost the whole 5km — we only stopped along the way to take some photos together.”
Running together has become something special to the two, and now, it always will be.
“We will continue running together for as long as possible. Even when I am unable to run anymore, I will walk while Wei Kang runs along.”
Photo Credit: SportPlus
The mother-and-son pair were among many families who joined the fun run that morning. For some, the highlight was the sight of a father and daughter running hand in hand, a heartwarming reminder of what the event stood for. For others, it was about new beginnings — like one 10km finisher who, despite always loving to run, chose the AirAsia Kallang Run as the very first race she ever signed up for.
“Running has always been a hobby of mine but I’ve never really attempted a race of this distance before so I brought my brother along,” she laughed, pointing toward her more experienced brother next to her who added, “I’m in track and field but it’s been a while since I completed a 10km run. Finishing was a wonderful feeling.”
Runners were treated to stunning views along the Tanjong Rhu Promenade Park Connector, Water Sports Centre, and Stadium Riverside Walk, before finishing triumphantly under the aviation-themed finishing arch.
“As I was running, I could see the Singapore skyline. I’ve never run at Kallang before so I thought it was really nice,” recounted a participant while another added, “the route towards Jalan Benaan Kapal towards the roundabout behind The Cage was one of the most scenic routes. It was really lovely. I can’t thank the sponsors and organisers enough for a well-organised race.”
Photo Credit: SportPlus
Festivities beyond the finish line
The fun carried on well past the finish line, as the Race Village at OCBC Square came alive after the participants completed their run . Runners flocked to photobooths, aviation-themed bouncy castles, and a life-sized airplane chess board, while games like the luggage-packing challenge kept the crowd entertained. Adding to the buzz, prizes were handed out throughout the morning at the AirAsia booth — some by fan-favourites, 98.7FM DJs Sonia Chew and Germaine Leonora Tan.
Performances by Bloco Singapura and EverDance brought energy to the morning, while lucky draws offered everything from SharkNinja appliances to the most anticipated prizes —AirAsia’s free flight tickets, announced live on stage.
As the winning race bib numbers were announced, the atmosphere captured the very spirit of the running community. All eyes turned to OCBC Square as winners broke into joyful sprints toward the stage. From snagging a new fan or blender to landing flight tickets to Fukuoka, Darwin, or Chiang Mai, every prize was met with cheers that rippled through the Race Village .
“The Race Village was really nice. Everyone was hyped and lovely — I thought it was great,” said one participant who joined the 5km just for the vibes.
Photo Credit: SportPlus
A community that lifts
The AirAsia Kallang Run 2025 showed how events can be inclusive, family-oriented, and joyfully non-competitive. For Lia, that inclusivity was the real highlight: “Runs like this are a great platform to raise awareness and to be more inclusive in the running community. We are thankful for the AirAsia Kallang Run in giving us this opportunity to be part of this event!”
Her advice to families considering joining next year? “Start today, start early. Don’t be too competitive at the start — just enjoy the process and see where the sport will take you.”
From seasoned runners chasing personal bests to families cherishing quality time, the AirAsia Kallang Run 2025 proved that running, much like travel, is best experienced together.
“Just wear your shoes and run! It can be non-competitive and fun if you come together with friends. Even if you come alone, you'll be with like-minded people and the vibes will always pick you up.”
