Bound for the Great Eastern Women's Run 2024, adidas Runners Crew Member Hailie Lim reflects on the inclusive and uplifting community created by the many women in Singapore's running scene
Singapore’s running scene has long been considered as one that’s inclusive and safe for women from all walks of life, a fact that is often taken for granted.
While running has traditionally been known as a male-dominant sport, there is a rise in the number of female runners taking on prominent roles amidst the countless running clubs hitting the streets every week.
Hailie Lim is just one of many who has played a pivotal role in shaping perceptions of women in sport, and she is set to take on the 10KM race at this year’s Great Eastern Women’s Run (GEWR) 2024 on 27 October.
The 31-year-old is a crew member of adidas Runners and also runs with The High Panters, with other prominent female runners such as Sofie Chandra. As a woman in sport, it’s often easy to be overshadowed by the men.
For Hailie however, having more women involved in Singapore’s running scene has proven to be beneficial and influential in her own running journey.
“Being a woman in the running community feels empowering. It’s supportive and inspiring and brings about a strong sense of camaraderie,” shared Hailie.
She added: “I mean, safety concerns do exist but I’m grateful our local running communities constantly uplift and celebrate one another, fostering growth and achievement. It’s a supportive space where women break barriers and share common goals.”
To learn of Hailie’s first GEWR experience, we’d have to go back nine years.
“I first joined Great Eastern Women's Run in 2015 because I thought the finisher tee looked cool,” she laughed. “After completing the run, I realized the atmosphere was so different. It made me feel confident knowing it was an all-women’s running event and I felt lifted by others with similar experiences and goals.”
Back then, she only had two years of running under her belt. Hailie first started with 5km fun runs she joined only because of the hype the events created. Running then took a hold of her life and she soon began challenging herself to run longer distances.
As a woman in sport, Hailie credits running for boosting her confidence. She now proudly holds her personal best of 42.195 km achieved at a World Marathon Major—the BMW Berlin Marathon she completed last year.
“It revealed what my body is capable of. Pushing through pain, fatigue, and self-doubt, especially during tough runs or races has strengthened my mental resilience, which extends to other areas of life. It’s the idea that despite challenges or doubts, I trust that I have the strength and ability to succeed, just like other women who have overcome their own hurdles,” she explained.
Women in Singapore's running scene have consistently accomplished remarkable feats, frequently traveling to overseas marathons and celebrating their personal bests together. Before she takes on the GEWR, Hailie and several other female runners will be part of a group from adidas Runners travelling to the United States to conquer the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
“The collective energy of a community like this can fuel personal goals, pushing everyone to reach new heights. It strengthens me to be surrounded by women with whom I can thrive with. It creates a deep sense of community where women can exchange stories, and celebrate their accomplishments, ” she gushed.
Being Singapore’s sole women-only run, the GEWR is a one-of-a-kind race. It is especially popular with first-time female racers, drawn in by the strong sense of solidarity and sisterhood that radiates throughout the event.
“GEWR emphasizes inclusivity and that’s what creates the safe space. They often highlight women’s health issues, celebrate female strength, and create a welcoming environment especially for beginners,” said Hailie.
“The focus on shared challenges and encouragement can make the event feel less competitive and instead, elevating, compared to mixed-gender races.”
After experiencing firsthand the communal support and love among women in Singapore's running scene, Hailie hopes more women will have the chance to discover the unique strength that only an all-women event can offer.
“Joining this women-only running event offers a unique opportunity to challenge yourself amidst comfortably. It’s a fun way to stay motivated and engaged with your fitness goals while potentially making new like-minded friends. Also, it’s Singapore’s largest & iconic all-women’s running event!”
Read up on more inspiring stories of women in sport and the Singapore sporting community in our features section.
Comments