Although the routes for this year's Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore (SCMS) remain largely unchanged, organisers rolled out several enhancements yesterday to improve the experience for both the runners and spectators.

For the first time in its 14-year history, the event will be held over two days on Dec 5 and 6.

Participants in the full marathon will be better cared for due to the presence of 16 hydration stations, an average of one every 2.6km.

Last year, the stations were spaced as far as 4km apart.

This year's route will still take runners through familiar locations and landmarks like Orchard Road, Clarke Quay, Chinatown, the Sports Hub, East Coast Park and the Marina Bay district.

A new banana station will also be set up along the half-marathon route, which starts at Sentosa Gateway and ends at the Padang, giving runners that extra boost of energy.

Spectators along the East Coast Park and West Coast Highway will be treated to new on-route entertainment, featuring cheerleaders, bands and LED robots.

Held on Dec 5, the 700m Kids Dash, a standalone event for the first time, will take place at the 100PLUS Sports Promenade at the Sports Hub, where parents and children can also watch the 8th Asean Para Games hosted at the same venue or enjoy the Games' carnival held there.

"We are constantly looking to improve the overall race experience. Each of the world's best marathons has a unique identity and we aim to do the same as we grow the SCMS into one of the top marathons in the world that appeals to an international audience," said Chris Robb, managing director of race organiser Spectrum Worldwide.

For more information and details, visit www.marathonsingapore.com.