Course measurer Kim Vivian ensures Singapore marathon route accuracy

In Singapore, an Australian named Kim Vivian has been busy measuring marathon courses over the last 12 years. Each of his courses gets registered on an international database, allowing runners to use them to qualify for prestigious marathons, such as the Boston or New York Marathon. Vivian, who is 60 years old, employs a systematic approach to course measurement, beginning with a calibration course to ensure accuracy before marking out the marathon route itself. Vivian's process relies on precision and mathematical skills, stemming from his background as a structural civil engineer. The marathon distance he certifies is expected to be exactly 42.195 kilometers, but this can often be complicated by race day conditions where runners may not take the shortest path. He finds the greatest challenge in ensuring that his measurements are as precise as possible, as GPS devices can yield inaccurate results that are 0.1 percent off from the actual distance. His journey into this niche profession stemmed from an interest sparked while participating in a marathon in Perth. After retiring from engineering, he earned a C-grade qualification to measure courses, which has allowed him to take part in measuring events recognized by international bodies. Thus, each marathon course he measures contributes to the global running community's standards. Kim's commitment to accuracy not only reflects his passion for running but also showcases his unique position as a course measurer working with various authorities. His recent visit to Singapore required him to navigate the local terrain, sometimes flanked by police escorts, which highlights the diverse experiences he encounters in his line of work. Overall, Vivian’s role is essential in maintaining the integrity and recognition of marathon courses worldwide.