Record 1,600 compete in vertical marathon
By Patwant Singh, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 22 November 2009 2058 hrs

	Photos  of

SINGAPORE: The annual vertical marathon was held at the Swissotel The Stamford Hotel on Sunday.

Both the men's and women's defending champs were in top form as they went on to retain their titles.

Growing numbers over the years saw a record 1,600 participants competing this year.

But all eyes were on the Men's Open category, where German Thomas Dold was out to defend his title.

In 2008, Dold broke by 6 seconds the previous record held by Balvinder Singh since 1989.

This year, the 25-year-old conquered the 73 storeys with a time of 6 minutes 46 seconds, a new world record and six seconds better than his 2008 timing.

Defending champ in the women's open category, Suzanne Walshman, also came out tops with her time of 8 minutes 29 seconds.

The two champions will once again represent Singapore at the Empire State Building Run in February 2010.

The Singapore event also raised S$35,540 for charity. Proceeds will go to the Spastic Children's Association of Singapore.

- CNA/ir