Retiree has taken part in every Big Walk since 1991
He has taken part in every Big Walk since the event was first held in 1991.
Yesterday, retiree Steven Chan, 67, did not allow the early morning drizzle to get in the way of enjoying this year's Jubilee Big Walk.
Mr Chan fondly remembers winning the top prizein the lucky draw back in 1991 - an Epson computer and printer worth $5,000.
"I used to take part with my colleagues and I remember carrying a transistor around with me so I could listen to the radio and walk at the same time," said Mr Chan, who was then a banking officer with United Overseas Bank.
In recent years, Mr Chan has been taking part alone, as his friends and family have dropped out, and some of them "can't be bothered to wake up so early".
He said: "I enjoy the Big Walk because it's a yearly activity for me and this year, I'm celebrating the 25th anniversary of (my first) participation."
Mr Chan recalled the first Big Walk, with 7,000 participants, which swelled to a record 70,000 in 2004.
"Back then, the route was about 12km long and it started from the National Stadium," he said.
Mr Chan cited City Hall and the former Supreme Court, where the National Gallery is now, as the most memorable landmarks for him. "The Padang is right in front and many National Day Parades were held there," he said.
The start point of this year's walk, the National Museum of Singapore, also brings back memories. He said: "I visit it whenever I'm free and I enjoy looking at the old photo exhibitions held there.
"I used to play the guitar as a hobby when I was younger, so the 1950s and 1960s were a period that was memorable for me. Visiting such exhibitions is like a walk down memory lane."
Mr Chan said: "Age is catching up with me but as long as I'm fit, I'll continue taking part in the Big Walk."
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