You know how we joke that chasing your toddlers around the house is your daily cardio?
Well, Naomi Cheh, a 60-year-old mum from Singapore, literally turned actual cardio into a lifestyle—and not just any lifestyle. Try 80 full marathons, multiple triathlons, and raising two sons who grew up to become elite commandos.
Let that sink in.
While most of us are debating whether it’s too hot to walk to the coffee shop, Naomi is out here crushing marathons like it’s no big deal. And she’s got the medals and muscle to prove it.
How This Singaporean Mum Became a Marathoner in Her 40s
Naomi wasn’t always a runner. In fact, her transformation started in one of life’s messiest chapters—postpartum recovery.
Back in 1994, Naomi gave birth to her first child via caesarean section. She struggled with postnatal blues, hormonal changes, and the emotional rollercoaster many new mothers silently endure. But one day, she put on her shoes, stepped outside, and walked.
Then she jogged. Then she ran.
Source: Naomi Cheh
What began as a coping mechanism soon became an obsession and then a calling.
“Because as before, things have never changed. Like, the only thing I have is family to take care of. Other than that, I still do all my routine — because I find that running is so important. I mean, of course I choose running because I enjoy it. But also for my fitness, and because when you exercise, you get less sickness.”
From Mama to Marathoner to Mum of Commandos
Here’s where things get wildly impressive.
As Naomi’s mileage increased, so did her children’s exposure to fitness. She brought her youngest son to fun runs and kids’ races, sometimes letting him jog beside her on shorter courses. She wasn’t just chasing personal records—she was leading by example.
Today? Her sons are literal Singapore Armed Forces commandos. That’s right—those elite, high-discipline, physically top-tier national servicemen.
Source: Naomi Cheh
Naomi’s example of commitment, consistency, and “never say die” rubbed off more than she ever imagined. And to her, becoming a marathoner helped her become a better mother.
“I think they saw how much I loved it. And they saw I never quit,” she says.
What Fuels This 60-Year-Old Marathoner Every Day
Naomi doesn’t believe in skipping breakfast or water breaks.
Before a run, she swears by bananas, chocolate bars, and hydration. She listens to her body, never runs on an empty stomach, and always stretches. And she never underestimates Singapore’s soul-melting humidity.
So, what motivates her to keep lacing up even at 60?
“Being a marathoner is about health first. I want to stay mobile, strong, and alert. I rarely fall sick. Running is my self-care.”
While some look forward to cheat days, Naomi looks forward to race bibs. For her, the next big goal is hitting her 80th full marathon—and yes, she’s already eyeing the century mark.
The Emotional Finish Line Every Marathoner Dreams Of
One of Naomi’s proudest marathoner moments? The Tokyo Marathon in 2014. She ran her fastest time ever, clocking in at an impressive 5 hours and 12 minutes—but the real tearjerker was the sight of her sons waiting at the finish line.
“They followed me from the hotel at 5 am. They stayed out in the cold just to support me,” she recalls. “When I crossed the line and saw their faces, I just cried.”
This is what being a marathoner is really about: not just time or pace, but the human moments, the shared milestones, the family that cheers from mile one.
Returning as a ‘Pacer’ at the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon
Source: Naomi Cheh
Naomi has been part of the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM) for over a decade—not just as a participant, but as a pacer.
“I was a Standard Chartered pacer,” she says proudly. “I try to encourage not just mums, but also younger runners and even seniors.”
During the race, Naomi often talks to fellow runners who feel like giving up.
“Some of them say it’s too hot, or they get cramps. I just want to help them finish. That’s already a big achievement.”
Her message is simple: don’t quit.
“If they get cramps, they have to stop and get help from the medics. But if they can still carry on, I want to be there to cheer them through it.”
Yes, this 60-year-old marathoner helps other people meet their finish-line dreams, calling out split times, encouraging first-timers, and pushing fellow runners through the mental wall. And this year, she’s returning to SCSM with even more excitement.
With the revamped two-day format, including the 5km and half marathon on one day and the full marathon on another, Naomi is thrilled about how family-friendly and inclusive the event has become.
“You don’t need to be a marathoner to join. Walk, jog, or just cheer. Get your family involved.”
A Bigger and Better Race Weekend This December
Source: Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon
The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2025 is back — and this time, it’s shaking things up with a new two-day format! The popular race weekend will now run from December 6-7, 2025, with different events spread across the two days to give runners a better experience.
Here’s what to expect:
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Saturday, 6 December: Half Marathon, 5km, and Kids Dash
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Sunday, 7 December: Full Marathon, 10km, and Ekiden
By splitting the Half and Full Marathons across two days, runners will enjoy smoother routes, less crowding, and more time to soak in the race-day vibes. It’s a big upgrade for Southeast Asia’s only World Athletics Gold Label Race, which welcomed over 55,000 runners in 2024.
More Reasons to Join — Win Prizes with ‘Run-cation’
Running isn’t the only reward. If you’re a Standard Chartered cardholder, you can also join the “Run-cation” promo and stand a chance to win awesome prizes like:
1st Prize: The Ultimate Hong Kong Marathon Getaway
Run, relax, and revel in luxury! Win a pair of entries to the 2026 Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon, Business Class flights for two, and a 4D3N stay at a 5-star hotel – all worth SGD 5,000. It’s the racecation of a lifetime!
2nd Prize: SCSM2025 Luxe Race Weekend
Go the extra mile in comfort! Enjoy a 2D1N stay at The Westin Singapore during SCSM 2025 (6–7 Dec), valued at SGD 1,500. Think plush beds, epic views, and premium vibes—all just steps away from the race buzz.
3rd Prize: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Stay on track and crush your goals with the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, worth SGD 1,000. Built tough, packed with features, and ready to match your pace—this is your ultimate fitness sidekick.
Whether you’re a first-timer, a returning runner, or a pacer like Naomi, this December’s race is shaping up to be one for the books.
As Naomi says, “I just want people to enjoy the run and feel proud for crossing the finish line — no matter the time.”
Ready to Be a Marathoner in Your Own Way?
Let Naomi’s story be your nudge, your sign, your full-blown running playlist in human form.
You don’t have to run 80 marathons. You don’t even have to run. But you can choose movement. You can choose yourself. Whether it’s a walk to the MRT, a 2km jog with your child, or your first 10K race—you’re on your way.
