EuRun '26 Recap!

Written by: De Kuan (26-E1), Kayden (26-E6), Min Shen (26-U1), Lucius (26-A6)

Designed by: Samantha (26-U1)

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The EUnoia Tree was abuzz with anticipation as our runners gathered to receive their bibs. Painstakingly designed by our EuRun coordinators, donning a bib signified that you were among the best of the best. And the best they had to be — house pride was on the line, after all.

A roaring rainbow wave swept through Bishan Park. 200 runners were released in waves, yet only 20 boys and 20 girls would get the chance to don medals up on stage.

The route consisted of a small loop-the-loop near the beginning before heading down the whole length of the park. 3.6km from start to finish, our competitors would enjoy a pleasant path through the amply-shaded park. A sharp U-turn awaited them at the halfway mark, ending with a straight shot to the finish line.

Even in the non-competitive group, attitude, resilience, and friendships were put to the test as our Eunoians completed the slightly shorter 3.2km route.

Ironically, the non-competitive group still faced competition. Known to be a limited edition, wristbands still serve as sufficient motivation for most to put in their best efforts. Eunoians paced each other, and the vibes were in the air, the constant cheering and support from one another, pushing themselves to their limits towards the finishing line. No one would ever forget the occasional one flying past while blasting music from their phone. Nothing could stop the last-minute sprints, in hopes of securing a wristband and entering the top 50. Even so, the shared experience stood out more than the excitement and the light-hearted rivalry. Whether one crossed the finish line drenched in sweat after putting in their all or half-soaked while being relieved that they endured the relentless heat, every step, every breath, and every cheer contributed to the atmosphere. 

Although the runners had crossed the finish line, the adrenaline coursing through the school was far from spent. The crowd soon found itself swept up in a different kind of performance – one that traded speed for rhythm and choreography.

Everyone gathered and was ready to witness the spectacle, the awe, that was EJ Street Dance’s performance. The pumping mashup of CAN WE LUV by 1Million and Beauty and a Beat by Justin Bieber reverberated through the halls as the school watched each swipe, each kick, and each swiftly choreographed move. After the electrifying performance, the totem poles were promptly brought out for everyone’s viewing pleasure. Akila’s totem pole, a shrieking eagle sat atop an intricately designed pole, a symbol of friendship and the strength of the house. Eder’s Lego-esque totem pole surely drew some attention with its unique design, with the wings on its back flying it to the finish line. Isami’s fresh take on a totem pole was definitely eye-catching, with its take on what Isami would look like as a Roblox avatar. Ora’s realistic cow-head topped totem pole, morphed and shaped out of papier-mâché, looked like it was stolen straight out of a farm, a definite contender for the win; Uzuri’s totem pole, with its hands in its pockets, radiated swag as its sunglass-laden pole rolled onto the stage. The crowd erupted into cheers as the judges took their time to deliberate.

As the finale neared, the student body was energised, awaiting the final results. Students were sitting in suspense, and whispers passed through the crowd. Finally, the emcees came back onto the stage, and a collective gaze fell upon them, eager to find out the winners. Firstly, the totem pole winners were revealed. In a pleasant surprise, second place was tied between Uzuri’s and Isami’s totems. However, it was Ora’s outstanding realism that stole the show. The excitement only intensified as the emcees prepared to announce the overall winners. Would the underdog (or eagle) Akila, or the dark horse Eder, clinch a comeback? Or would Ora seal in their victory? Eager to prove their strength, each house roared and cheered with a unique energy, ready to receive the results. Ora claimed the top spot in the overall EuRun rankings once again, and Akila came second with strong EuRun timings, while Uzuri finished in third. Although Eder and Isami missed out on a podium finish, their determination, enthusiasm, and unwavering house spirit were no less significant. Their efforts throughout EuRun served as a reminder that every contribution mattered in making the event a success.

Image Credit: EJC Media/Zander Low

As the cheers gradually faded and students made their way home, EuRun 2026 left behind more than just rankings and results. It was a collective celebration of perseverance, camaraderie, and house spirit, bringing the Eunoia community together through shared challenges and memorable moments. Every Eunoian played a part in making the event unforgettable, whether it was running under the scorching sun, cheering from the sidelines, or contributing behind the scenes. After all, beyond the five houses stood one united school – five houses, one Eunoia.