Through the Years
The 1930s marked the beginning of Singapore athletics with the formation of the Singapore Amateur Athletic Association - Singapore's governing body in track and field. In the early colonial days, training and athletics meets were centred at the Jalan Besar Stadium and Farrer Park Sports Complex - icons that would continue to host lots of action and drama for the next few decades. In terms of athletes, a few, including sprinter Ali Ahmad, created interest. While not everyone could be so talented, many found joy in the simple pleasure of track and field - a sport which was accessible regardless of one's status in life......
"Going against the prevailing trend then, Swift Athletes Association felt that sports should have no distinction in race, class or creed."
"Obstacles in terms of finance, training facilities and strong opposition from communal organizations did not deter the pioneers of Swift Athletes Association from making their mark."
"The 60s brought a wealth of talents, many of whom continued to be in the limelight till the 70s."
"The powerful combination of experience and youth was best manifested at the 1974 Asian Games in Tehran where our athletes put in the best performance ever at this level."
"Singapore athletics entered the 1980s with high hopes but it was soon evident that we glorious 1970s would be hard to match."
"The Singapore International Marathon continued to enjoy phenomenal growth among both the locals and overseas athletes."