Running Group

By Marangeli Wouda

Top photo: Green Corridor: Yaba, Anne, Nikki, Bernie, Kate, Caroline, Dora and Marangeli

Kilometers of friendship and fun

For the last three years, I have been incredibly fortunate to be a part of the AWA Running Group. Through this group, I have been able to discover many beautiful parts of Singapore that I otherwise would not know. I have loved running early in the morning through Kent Ridge Park while commenting that it reminds me of a movie set. I have gotten soaking wet at East Coast Park while completing a half marathon in honor of a runner's birthday. I have run a 5k in the Botanic Gardens almost every Tuesday and have always been amazed to discover something new.

AWA Running Group participated in Race for the Cure: Anne, Claire, Sheila, Marangeli, Qian, Brenda and Manu

However, it is the relationships that we nurture while running kilometer after kilometer together that make this group of women so special.

Our runners come from all walks of life. From different countries and contrasting life experiences. Some are young enough to be my daughters (which I must admit is very humbling). Some started running a couple of years ago, while others have many marathons under their belts. We are all so different and, yet, we all share one thing in common: our love for running.

We have shared lots of highs. We have travelled together to run in other countries. We have celebrated that a runner has become a US citizen. We have taken thousands of selfies and even included a bride and groom in our pictures. We also have been together for the not-so-highs when runners were injured or diagnosed with medical conditions. We have especially been there for each other during this pandemic. It’s been tough not seeing parents and children for more than a year, but this group has made sure that there was laughter, positivity and very little drama every step of the way.

MBS with a couple who was taking a picture for a birth announcement. From left to right runners Beth, Laura, Suzanne, Keri and Marangeli

The AWA Running Group has been my “home away from home” for the last three years. Now, as I move back to the United States, I can only say that I am very proud to have been a part of this amazing group.

Marangeli was co-chair of the Running Group from 2019-2021.