Little Legs, Big Strides: Jerome's Journey From Family Fun Runs to the AirAsia Kallang Run
For primary school student Jerome Chin, running started out as a way for him to bond with his family. Inspired by his older brother, the 11-year-old soon picked up the sport, and the pair are now training partners.
“We would do long runs together while my father would cycle to pace us,” Jerome said of his training routines.
Beyond strengthening family ties, the sport has also instilled valuable lessons in him.
“My running routine teaches me discipline and helps me to prioritise daily activities. I will make sure I finish all my homework fast and have enough rest before my training.”
The Nanyang Primary School student has also discovered a newfound confidence thanks to the sport.
“Running has made me more confident because I’ve learned to push past my limits, and I can apply that to my schoolwork too. Each time I complete a run, I feel a sense of achievement.”
The avid runner is set to compete at the inaugural AirAsia Kallang Run on 27 September, with fond memories of breaking the tape at February’s Prosperity Run still fresh in his mind.
“I felt so amazed crossing the finish line with my target time, with my family and everyone else cheering for me. I even remember the person on stage shouting my name as I crossed the line.”
This year, he will once again line up in the 5km category, determined to better his time from the previous edition.
An admirer of the late marathoner Kelvin Kiptum, who set the world record with a time of 2 hours 35 seconds at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, Jerome is aware that perseverance will be a key factor in his attempt to improve upon his winning time.
“I’ve realised that discipline and consistency matter more than speed or distance, and it also strengthens my mindset to keep going beyond my limits.”
He will have supporters around him to give him that extra boost come 27 September, as his family members are also participating in the run.
“I feel great as my family will be accompanying me this time. I look forward to bonding as a family as we push hard and work towards our goal together.”
As he prepares for his second race at the Singapore Sports Hub precinct, Jerome is encouraging others to sign up.
“I strongly encourage them to join the AirAsia Kallang Run as it’s a great family bonding activity, where everyone can cheer and motivate each other on. It’s also a fun and healthy way to keep fit.”
The event will feature both 5km and 10km categories in a non-competitive, family-friendly setting, making it suitable for participants of all ages.
Runners can look forward to a scenic run route around the Singapore Sports Hub precinct, passing landmarks such as the Tanjong Rhu Lookout Tower, OCBC Square, Water Sports Centre and Stadium Riverside Walk.
Participants will receive a race pack that includes a T-shirt, run bib, and AirAsia merchandise. All finishers will also take home a medal.
Head down to the OCBC Square for the race village, where the fun takes off with aviation-themed activities, including a game of giant aeroplane chess and bouncy castles. There will be live performances and a lucky draw as well, where participants stand a chance to win SharkNinja appliances and more.
AirAsia Kallang Run 2025
The AirAsia Kallang Run is happening on 27 September! While registrations for the run have officially closed, visitors are still welcome to drop by the race village at OCBC Square to soak in the excitement and festivities.
Be sure to follow our Instagram for the latest race updates and live coverage on event day.
