SINGAPORE: An increasing number of Singaporeans are taking up the challenge of running marathons.

In fact, over 50,000 participants signed up for the Standard Chartered Marathon this year.

But what happens when even a 42-kilometre race is not enough?

Seasoned sportsman Kua Harn Wei competes in ultra-triathlons, such as the DECA-ironman, which means he has to swim 38 kilometres and cycle 1800 kilometres, before ending the race with a 422-kilometre run.

For this university lecturer, the thrill of such a gruelling race lies in the challenge to excel.

Said Kua: "(It’s) for pure challenge… I want to look for races that are more difficult. And I want to see whether I can train myself to the extent, to the level that I can finish these races."

Kua is currently ranked second in the world, according to the International Ultra Triathlon Association world ranking.

But while he aims to be number one in the world of Ultra-Triathlons, another Singaporean – Thaddeus Lawrence – does not care if he comes in last.

Lawrence has run a total of three 42-kilometre marathons.

But his lack of experience has not stopped him from setting his sights on completing a 250-kilometre desert run in the Sahara next year.

Said Lawrence: "It's all about having that dream and wanting to do it. I'm not in it for the competition with other people, I'm more in competing with myself. Just stepping up, having a brand new challenge and trying something new."

And if you are interested to step out of your comfort zone, here are some tips from the experts.

Said Kua: "Give yourself the chance to experience the fun and the excitement... do it step by step."

"It could be running a race, it could be climbing a mountain, whatever,” continued Lawrence. “Please go out and do something crazy. I think everyone should.”

- CNA/yb