Singapore’s premier running event is back with a fresh twist. The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2025 (SCSM), Southeast Asia’s only World Athletics Gold Label Race, will take place on December 6 and 7 with a brand-new two-day format. For the first time ever, the half-marathon and full marathon races will be held on separate days to ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience for runners.
New Race Format: Half and Full Marathons on Different Days
Breaking away from its traditional three-day schedule, SCSM 2025 will now run over two days:
- December 6 (Saturday):
- 21.1 km Half-Marathon
- 5 km Fun Run
- Kids Dash
- December 7 (Sunday):
- 42.195 km Marathon
- 10 km Run
- Ekiden Relay
According to Jeff Edwards, managing director for Asia at The Ironman Group (SCSM organisers), the new format is designed to reduce congestion, improve race-day logistics, and offer optimal performance conditions.
“These adjustments… ensure the best possible race experience for our runners, and allow for more runners than ever before to be a part of this event,” he said.
Growing Participation and International Reach
The marathon has seen impressive growth in recent years:
- Marathon participation rose by 31%
- Half-marathon participation jumped by 46%
- Over 55,000 runners from more than 80 countries joined in 2024
- Organisers expect up to 60,000 participants in 2025
This growth helped drive the decision to split race days, providing a more inclusive and spacious experience for all categories.
Route and Experience Enhancements Underway
Organisers are currently reviewing the marathon route, especially the 10 km West Coast Highway stretch that drew criticism in 2024 for being hot and unsheltered.
A spokesperson from Ironman Group said:
“We’re continuously looking at ways to improve the race experience… including reviewing potential route adjustments.”
The 2025 route is expected to be more scenic, possibly featuring Singapore’s iconic landmarks, and will be announced closer to the event.
Inclusive Community Initiatives
Title sponsor Standard Chartered is strengthening its social outreach this year:
- 200 free race slots will go to volunteers and community runners, including Special Olympics Singapore
- Employees can make charity contributions to Futuremakers, the bank’s youth empowerment initiative
- Parents can gift Kids Dash slots to children under the ComLink+ programme for lower-income families
Patrick Lee, Standard Chartered’s CEO for Singapore and ASEAN, shared:
“We are deepening our efforts to ensure SCSM 2025 is even more inclusive—not just for runners, but for the wider community.”
SCSM 2025 Registration Details & Pricing
Public registration begins April 16, with super early-bird rates available:
| Category | Price (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Marathon (42.195 km) | $137 |
| Half-Marathon (21.1 km) | $115 |
| 10 km Run | $93 |
| 5 km Run | $71 |
| Kids Dash | $44 |
| Ekiden Relay (Team of 4) | $545 |
Note: These prices include GST and processing fees. Visit singaporemarathon.com for full registration details and updates.
Conclusion
The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon continues to evolve in its mission to be Asia’s most runner-friendly and inclusive marathon. With a revised two-day format, smarter route planning, and stronger community engagement, SCSM 2025 promises to be the most exciting edition yet.
