OF BICYCLES AND SKATERS

There was a cool breeze blowing, the skies were clear and the runway of Paya Lebar Air Base was prepared and cleared for take-off. The only thing was different sets of wheels were moving across the runway on the morning of 12 Jun.

Jointly organised by SAFRA, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and Singapore Sports Council, the annual National Runway Cycling (NRWC) saw more than 7,000 participants on bicycles and inline skates blazing down the runway.

As part of the 10th anniversary of NRWC, a huge number '10' was formed by 1,000 participants across the 60-metre wide runway at the starting line.

Flagging off the event was Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, who cycled down the runway, accompanied by his son.

"It's significant that it's held at an air base," said Dr Balakrishnan. "It's a reminder to the public of how closely we depend on the Air Force and the armed forces."

Participants were treated to more than they bargained for, as the air base pulled no stops for the event.

The RSAF showcased its military prowess with a static display of the full range of its aircraft and weapons.

There were also military band performances, live shows by the Singapore Armed Forces' Music and Drama Company, magic shows, bicycle and inline skating demonstrations, and telematches.

Indeed, Paya Lebar Air Base shone with the glow of fun and family togetherness.

"What I was most struck by was that families, people young and old, and people in wheelchairs all had a good time along the runway," said Dr Balakrishnan.