SINGAPORE: Some 100 people spent a total of 24 hours on a stationary bicycle in a cycling marathon organised by the Down Syndrome Association (DSA) and the Lions Club of Singapore Metropolitan to raise public awareness of the condition.

Among the participants were 16 youths, aged 9 to 25, with Down Syndrome.

Divided into teams of eight, each member took turns to cycle in shifts of about 10 to 15 minutes for a total of 24 hours.

Although speed and stamina count, so does having someone to cheer you on.

Members from the winning team, T T Riders, said their team-mate from DSA helped to lift their spirits.

Alan Tan said: "Seeing the determination from him really gave us a big morale boost. So whenever we thought of giving up, we would remind ourselves that what we were doing was for a worthy cause and so we persevered and pushed on."

And according to the Singapore Book of Records, T T Riders broke a previous national record of 1311.56 kilometres for the longest distance covered in 24 hours, with a record of 1869.5 kilometres.

Organisers believe sports can hone the motor skills of people with Down Syndrome.

Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean said: "I think it's a very positive thing. As you can see, they all enjoyed the sports and it's a good way for them to develop teamwork, be comfortable with themselves and engage others."

DSA's Chairman Ong Chin Wah said: "When people with special needs achieve something, it improves their self-esteem, just like with any other person."

That is certainly true for Jesslyn Wong, who will represent Singapore in bowling at the Special Olympics this September in Shanghai.

The winner of Charity Bowl Challenge 2007 said: "I feel excited that I'm going to Shanghai. I need to practise, practise, practise very hard!"

Efforts are also underway to give those with Down Syndrome access to more sporting facilities.


- CNA/so