Shape Run 2009

I have just completed the Great Eastern Women run on 1 Nov '09 and was impressed that the event was well organized. It is almost as well organized as the Standard Chartered Singapore marathon. Shape run organizers should learn some skills from them or send representatives to participate in such events to have a 'feel' of what being 'well organized' meant.

(1) The race pack was given out together with Bib number for the GE run and StanChart run. Why can't Shape run race pack be given out together with the Bib number? It is chaotic when collecting it on race day as it was seen in all the past Shape run events and there are so many queues that the runners have to endure.
(2) The event start and finish points were clear and easily understood for GE run and StanChart Run. I remember going in a ‘maze’ looking for the starting point for Shape run. It was not easy to find with all the constructions going on around that area.
(3) All the booths for collection of medals, drinks, etc have big banners and many queue lines. Why can’t Shape run have same? Having one queue line for each and every collection booth is not a good option – this caused bottlenecks.
(4) One runner is given one finisher medal. In GE and StanChart Run, they marked on the Bib tag when the runner collects her medal. Shape run organizers should learn this if they want control.
(4) Why confined to Marina Square? Finish point at The Padang enables lots of moving space and tents/booths can be spread out over a wider area – no ‘jams’, no bottlenecks, less flare up of temper.

Above are but some of the points which I would hope Shape run organizers would take note of. If GE run organizer (with 13,000 women runners) can do it well, Shape run (with 8,000 women runners) can also do it! I look forward to greater improvement in next Shape run event.