Wellness on the road

A glorious return

Essence of Singapore

On a sweltering afternoon recently, about a hundred runners in colorful running shoes and gear started off from the Westin Singapore, enjoying picturesque views along the city's Marina Bay as they ran.

This was the inaugural run of the "RunWESTIN. Work Out. Do Good" charity event launched by Westin Hotels and Resorts in Asia Pacific.

The campaign, which encourages guests to put on their running shoes and keep fit for a good cause, also spotlights Westin's successful gear-lending program with sports brand New Balance.

"We are thrilled to roll out the campaign in the Asia-Pacific, highlighting our brand's commitment to making fitness convenient for travelers," says Vincent Ong, senior director of brand management, Asia Pacific, Westin, Sheraton, Four Points, Aloft and Element, Starwood Hotels and Resorts. He and other senior managers were among the runners for the 3-kilometer run.

Westin established its global gear-lending program with New Balance in November 2012, allowing guests to borrow running shoes with disposable insoles and sports apparel for a nominal fee.

To better facilitate guests, all Westin properties offer 5-and 8-kilometer running route maps, so guests can enjoy the local scenery while they work out.

"They don't have to bother to pack their running gear while traveling. Everything we do is for the idea of 'for a better you', to make guests leave feeling better than when they arrived, with our various amenities and the excellent hotel experience," says Brian Povinelli, global brand leader of Westin Hotels and Resorts and Le Meridien.