For Zhang Xianyu Oliver, sport has never been confined to a single discipline. Growing up, his athletic life spanned badminton courts, softball diamonds, tchoukball pitches, tennis baselines, and even competitive e-sports arenas. Behind every game was a supportive circle of teammates, mentors, and friends who nurtured his passion and helped him fall in love with movement.
When Oliver transitioned into the corporate world as an Associate in Credit Portfolio Analytics under Specialised Finance at Standard Chartered Bank, running naturally became his go-to recreational outlet. Yet as the kilometres added up, a deeper question began to surface: How can I give back? Is there more purpose to what I can do?
That search for meaning forms the heart of his story in Soles of Singapore, a dedicated content series by the BYD Singapore International Marathon presented by adidas celebrating everyday Singaporeans whose running journeys reflect resilience, community, and heart.
Photo: SportPlus.sg / Isis Ang
From Solo Miles to Shared Strides
Finding a way to merge personal fitness with community impact became possible through an environment that actively champions inclusion both inside and outside the office. Standard Chartered’s longstanding commitment to community engagement opened the door for Oliver to volunteer with Special Olympics Singapore (SOSG)—a decision that transformed his relationship with running.
Over consecutive race seasons, Oliver’s commitment alongside SOSG athletes has steadily evolved across distances—from the 5KM in 2024 to tackling the 21KM half marathon in 2025, and returning to take on the 10KM in 2026. Whether training at local hubs like imPACT@Hong Lim Green or weaving through iconic city landmarks like the Fort Canning Tree Tunnel, every session carries a different rhythm from running alone.
"Sports have always been a big part of my life," Oliver shares. "Growing up, I was fortunate to have people around me who helped grow my love in each sport. So when I started working and picked up running recreationally, it got me wondering, how can I give back? Is there more purpose to what I can do? I’m fortunate to be working at a place that champions inclusion, both in the community and at work. That opened the door for me to volunteer with Special Olympics Singapore, and it’s been quite a journey since."
Photo: SportPlus.sg / Isis Ang
Redefining Who Gives and Who Receives
Like many first-time volunteers, Oliver initially stepped onto the running track thinking about how his athletic background could support others. It did not take long for the athletes of Special Olympics Singapore to flip that perspective on its head.
Running side-by-side with adaptive athletes strips away ego, split times, and personal bests, replacing them with patience, mutual encouragement, and pure joy for movement. In those shared miles, Oliver discovered that true strength isn't measured solely by speed—it is measured by persistence and presence.
"At first, I went in thinking about what I could bring to the table. I thought I was there to give back," Oliver reflects. "But the more time I spend with the athletes, the more I realise, they’re the ones who have given me so, so much."
Photo: SportPlus.sg / Isis Ang
Building Inclusion Moment by Moment
For Oliver, what happens on the pavement does not stay on the pavement. The lessons learned from pacing alongside SOSG athletes—listening actively, adapting to different needs, and celebrating every milestone—carry directly into his daily work within Standard Chartered and its Wellbeing Community.
As he notes, inclusion is intentional and built moment by moment. What makes any community truly meaningful is the space it creates for everyone to belong, regardless of background or ability. For anyone looking to support adaptive sports or run alongside Special Olympics Singapore but unsure where to begin, Oliver’s journey proves that you do not need to be an elite runner to make an impact—sometimes, the most powerful step is simply showing up.
As Singapore gears up for the 2026 BYD Singapore International Marathon presented by adidas, Oliver’s story stands as a timely reminder that behind every bib number is a bigger purpose, and the best runs are the ones we share together.
Follow more inspiring stories of everyday runners in the Soles of Singapore series leading up to the 2026 BYD Singapore International Marathon presented by adidas right here on SportPlus.sg.