Iron Runner Returns: Fostering Inclusivity, Connection and Collaboration

For the past four years, SUSS Iron Runner has been a signature programme for both staff and students, promoting a healthier lifestyle through distance-based challenges over a two-month period. To enhance inclusivity and variety, additional physical and virtual challenges were introduced, allowing participants to engage from the comfort of their own homes.

_{Participants and organisers of the Iron Runner Season 4 posing cheerfully at the Closing Ceremony.}

On 10 August 2024, SUSS OWLs wrapped up the 4th season of Iron Runner, a distance-based fitness challenge, with a vibrant Closing Ceremony. This season’s theme emphasized inclusivity and connection, aligning with SUSS OWLs' mission to enhance physical, mental and social well-being.

_{Hard at work: the Iron Runner organising team at their registration counter in the morning of the Closing Ceremony.}

_{Participants were randomly grouped to reflect and ponder with one another about their experiences during their 8-weeks journey in this season’s Iron Runner.}

_{Iron Runner participants playing icebreakers to meet and connect with other Iron Runners.}

This year, Iron Runner saw the participation of over 140 staff and students, marking a significant milestone with the introduction of individual sign-ups for team formation. This new approach fostered connections and facilitated the forging of new relationships within the SUSS community, embodying the event’s spirit of inclusivity and connection.

_{Strings and shapes – participants create shapes within their group while blindfolded as a team-building game during the Closing Ceremony.}

_{Iron Runner Season 4 tote bags for all participants!}

Collaborations with various Interest Groups (IGs) enhanced the event by offering diverse activities. SUSS Boxing IG taught foundational boxing skills, bringing a dynamic and energetic element to the Iron Runner challenge. Meanwhile, SUSS Skate IG introduced participants to skating, guiding them in learning new techniques and building confidence on skates.

_{Participants boxed their night through with members of the Boxing IG and the different stances and positionings while being engaged in boxing.}

_{A group photo at the end of the skating session in East Coast Park, led by SUSS Skates IG.}

The SUSS Outdoor Adventure IG (ODAIG) and Production IG (PDIG) contributed to the success of the latest edition of Iron Runner. Their ongoing support expanded the variety of activities offered to participants. This year, ODAIG organised two adventurous land expeditions, allowing participants to reconnect with nature. Siew Hui Shan, an SUSS Early Childhood Education Year 2 student and ODAIG Land Expedition Head, remarked, “While this was ODAIG’s second collaboration with SUSS OWLs, it was my first experience working with them for Iron Runner Season 4. We gained a deeper understanding of SUSS OWLs’ goals, enabling us to craft a more tailored and impactful expedition for participants.” Meanwhile, PDIG captured the most memorable moments of Iron Runner through exceptional photography and videography.

<sub>Participants navigating the Land Expedition to Coney Island led by ODAIG.

A group photo with Iron Runners for their Land Expedition from Khatib to Chomp Chomp Food Centre.</sub>

As Iron Runner Season 4 concludes, the enthusiastic participation and positive feedback have reaffirmed OWLs’ commitment to this meaningful initiative. A participant shared, “I met many new friends and had the chance to trek again, something I hadn’t prioritized due to my busy schedule.” We extend our deepest gratitude to all participants who fostered an inclusive and connected environment, with special recognition for those who have continuously supported the initiative over the years.

 

Want in on the action? Follow SUSS OWLs on Instagram and LinkedIn for updates on Iron Runner Season 5!