Popular path closed?
Lin Yanqin, Today Online 23 Mar 09;
HE HAD been running there since 1992, but marathoner Elangovan Ganesan and other running enthusiasts will no longer be able to return to one of their favourite routes in Singapore.
Since last week, joggers who regularly use a path linking MacRitchie and Upper Peirce reservoirs have found themselves being turned away by Singapore Island Country Club security guards.
The reason? According to PUB and SICC, the path lies on the club’s golf course and within range of flying golf balls.
“In consideration for public safety, SICC and PUB decided to close the path,” they told Today.
Besides security guards stationed temporarily at various entry points to the path, SICC will be planting hedges with signage to advise the public not to enter. A fence has also been erected at the Upper Peirce Reservoir dam, the main entry point.
Mr Elangovan, like many of his peers, was disappointed when he heard the news. “It’s a bit sad, especially since interest in distance running is really picking up in Singapore, and if you want to promote it as a sport you should have the venues,” said the 34-year-old, who has been hit by a golf ball once in his 18 years running there.
“But safety is an issue no matter where you run, on the streets or in a park. Runners basically run at their own risk.”
Some runners felt that the club was thinking more about the safety of its members, especially after a brawl broke out last month between SICC members and a group of youth at the golf course off Sime Road, after the youth had allegedly trespassed onto the course.
Jogger June Chia, 29, who uses the path once a month, said: “I’ve seen people run onto the course and security trying to stop them. Maybe (SICC members) had enough.”
Running club MacRitchie Runners 25 president Mark Dyson believes the public could have been consulted first. “Perhaps the path could be open during certain hours, such as early morning, where there are few golfers anyway,” he said.
Now, his club’s plans to hold its annual race, covering trails through MacRitchie and beyond, have been thrown into disarray with the closure. “Our members are quite upset, we’re trying to meet with the management to discuss any compromises,” said Mr Dyson.
The path is apparently so popular because of its challenging terrain, peaceful forested setting and the fact that it avoids the road.
“There are other venues, but this one is really unique,” saidMr Elangovan.
“It benefits runners because it’s a mix of terrain.”
According to PUB, MacRitchie Reservoir offers “several alternative scenic routes” and nature trails that serve as connectors to other parts of the reservoir. It also welcomed feedback on its 24-hour Call Centre (1800-284 6600).
