Singapore is soon to turn 60, and this milestone is a poignant reminder of the grit, grace, and goodness that built our nation. To commemorate this journey, the Good Start Run 2025 invites Singaporeans to celebrate the sacrifices of our forefathers, embrace resilience, and support the next generation through an inspiring campaign of endurance and giving.
This run, organized annually, aims to be a nation-building movement that unites children, families, and communities for a shared cause: raising funds for our Educational Support Programme (ESP) which provides essential resources for preschoolers with additional needs.
"I'm not running for myself, I'm doing it for a good cause." - Uncle Nghee Huat
The genesis of this is run is attributed to one man's boundless compassion and determination to do good and propelled him to run for charities. We are thankful and honored to have seasoned ultra-marathoner, fondly known by the children as Uncle Nghee Huat, running the 2025 Brazil135 ultra-marathon for Presbyterian Preschool Services. This race is set to commence on 9th January 2025 in Brazil Águas da Prata. It spans 135miles and Uncle Nghee Hut will be completing it in 60 hours, at the same time, commemorating SG60.
However, the success of this grueling ultra-marathon is not his alone - behind every step he takes, his wife Deborah is a silent force, offering encouragement, managing logistics and ensures he stays physically and emotionally prepared. Her steadfast presence during his training and races has been instrumental in enabling him to push his limits and achieve extraordinary feats. This power couple prove that the toughest journeys are made lighter with a strong and loving partner by your side!
"We just go, two of us, let's do it. Even if you can only walk, I will walk with you." - Deborah to Uncle Nghee Huat
Deborah's words to Uncle Nghee Huat beautifully reflect the unconditional and unwavering love she has for her husband, In fact, it is also the same as God's love for us. Just as she promises to journey alongside him no matter the pace and challenge, God walks with us in the same quiet, loving way, being the strength in our weakest moments, Deborah's committment mirror's God's grace, reminding us that His love is steadfast and never leaving us to face life's struggles alone. It is only with God's divine compassion that carries us through every season of our lives!
This celebration of unity is not about crossing the finish line - it is about the journey, the values learnt along the way, and the impact on those who need it most. As a nation that moves together, this campaign invites people of all ages to participate. Whether it is preschoolers running in School, families cheering them on, or Uncle Nghee Huat conquering distances, this run emphasizes the importance of a collective effort.
"Why do I need to stop when I still can run? I will try to run as long as possible."
When Uncle Nghee Huat's son asked him about retiring from his run, he said, "when I cannot tolerate the pain any longer, and my running is unable to support charities anymore, I will stop running." That was back in 2013. Now, more than 10 years later, this may be Uncle Nghee Huat's last run,
The Good Start Run is steeped in gratitude, paying tribute to the blood sweat and tears of Singapore's pioneers like Uncle Nghee Huat. These are men and women who rolled up their sleeves, persevered through hardships, and worked tirelessly to build the nation we call home today.
By teaching preschoolers the values of grit, grease (hard work), grace and gratitude, it shapes a generation that understands the true essence of nation-building. The funds raised will ensure that children with additional needs have access to inclusive classrooms where they can grow not only academically but also holistically—learning kindness, collaboration, and resilience.
In tandem with Uncle Nghee Huat's run, 200 preschoolers will collectively run 60 kilometers a day for 60 days, embodying the perseverance of our forefathers. These children, guided by their teachers, learn that nation-building is no walk in the park. It requires hard work, teamwork, and sacrifice—a lesson that will stay with them as they grow into compassionate, resilient individuals. These children, such as Theodore and Selin, will partner with PPS to create their own fundraisers in support of this campaign.
Each child with a fundraising target of $1,000, embodies the very fact that
"no one can do everything, but everyone can do something." - Max Lucado
Why it matters?
As Singapore has been built on the foundation of good values—integrity, compassion, and determination, this campaign reinforces these principles, demonstrating how we can come together to care for the most vulnerable in our community. Even the smallest feet can leave the biggest footprints when guided by compassion.
By donating to this campaign, Singaporeans contribute not just to a fund but to a brighter future for children with additional needs. It’s a chance to ensure that no child is left behind and that every young mind is nurtured to reach their fullest potential.
Inclusion is not just an idea; it’s an action. It’s the tireless steps of a man running across deserts. It’s the playful strides of children coming together for a cause. It’s the unyielding commitment of a community that believes every child deserves to shine.
Let us all do our part by cheering on the preschoolers as they run 60 kilometers in 60 days, support Lim Nghee Huat’s ultra-marathon journey, or make a donation to the Educational Support Programme.
How can I help?
Support the Children's run: https://www.giving.sg/donate/campaign/2025-good-start-run
Support Uncle Nghee Huat's run: https://www.giving.sg/donate/campaign/good-start-run-brazil135
Run with us: https://bit.ly/GSRun_Subcampaign
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