Singapore’s premier marathon just raised the stakes for elite athletes and everyday runners alike.

SG International Marathon Pte Ltd (SGIMPL) has announced a major overhaul of the National Championships, headlined by a new naming partner, Embed Financial Group Holdings (EFGH), and a dramatic increase in prize money. The total prize purse now stands at S$177,500 – up 200%, with the marathon champion set to earn S$30,000.

But this isn’t just about bigger payouts. It’s about building a clearer, more serious pathway for Singapore’s top runners.

A Race With Real Consequences

The newly branded EFGH National Championships will take place within the BYD Singapore International Marathon presented by adidas and for the first time, it will double as a provisional selection race for the 2027 SEA Games.

The top three men and women in the marathon won’t just make the podium; they’ll earn spots in the SEA Games provisional selection squad. In other words, race day now carries national significance.

Backing Singapore’s Best

Sixty of the country’s fastest runners, 30 men and 30 women, will be selected through a merit-based system to compete in the marathon and half marathon.

What sets this year apart is the level of support. Entry fees will be waived. Athletes will get transport to the start line, access to elite hydration stations, and a dedicated race pen and flag-off. For the first time, they’ll also receive focused broadcast coverage.

It’s a shift in mindset: treat local athletes like elite competitors, not just participants.

As Event Director Shalindran Sathiyanesan put it, the goal is simple: remove distractions so athletes can focus on performance.

Raising the Bar

EFGH’s involvement signals more than sponsorship. It reflects a belief that performance follows support. As Executive Chairman Dennis Ng noted, serious athletes need serious structures and this partnership aims to provide exactly that.

Singapore Athletics sees the Championships as a key step in its high-performance pathway, with top finishers continuing on to further development and international opportunities.

More for the Running Community

The changes extend beyond the elite field. Registration for the marathon weekend is now open, with a cap of 52,000 runners and a new fixed pricing system to ensure fairness.

There’s also a new 1.6km race for children aged 10 to 12, aimed at sparking interest early. Meanwhile, runners can expect themed training sessions, curated on-course experiences, and a new Crew Challenge that rewards the fastest combined team marathon time.

The Bigger Picture

This refresh isn’t just about one event: it’s about raising the standard of running in Singapore.

With stronger incentives, better athlete support, and a more inclusive race experience, the Singapore International Marathon is positioning itself as more than a race. It’s becoming a platform for competition, community, and future champions.

And this year, it matters more than ever.