Coach Rui began running at a young age and completed his first marathon in 2014 with an impressive time of 2 hours 26 minutes. His illustrious career has continued ever since, and he currently holds multiple Singaporean national records, ranging from the 5,000m to the marathon.
He has been coaching others informally since 2018 and founded the RunSohFast Academy in 2023, followed soon after by the creation of the Battersea Bandits — a high-performance amateur running club in London — alongside current Academy coach Rich Bull.
Rich joined the Academy’s growing roster of coaches in 2024, followed shortly by Sarah Forbes-Smith and Bay Hansen, who each bring a wealth of experience in their respective fields.
RunSohFast Academy offers coaching for runners of all levels and distances, as well as expertise in triathlon, strength and conditioning, injury rehabilitation, and sports psychology. We have a range of specialist coaches ready to meet a wide variety of needs.
cOACHES
soh Rui yong
Coach Rui is a multiple National Record holder for Singapore, ranging from 5km to the marathon. His PBs include a 2:22 marathon and a 1:06 half-marathon. He has helped countless clients reach and exceed their running goals.
RICHARD BULL
Rich is a hugely accomplished athlete in a variety of disciplines. He is a 2.32 marathoner and holds a 4.03 half-Ironman. He also works as a freelance personal trainer alongside his day job in the Cyber-Security industry.
SARAH FORBES-SMITH
Sarah Forbes-Smith is a qualified personal trainer, working at a leading gym in London, as well as being a supremely accomplished runner, with a Marathon PB of 2.42.
Diane Nukuri is a three-time Olympian and national record holder for Burundi in the half-marathon and marathon who’s had international racing exposure since age 15. With over a decade of experience racing elite marathons, Diane brings unmatched insight into what it takes to succeed.
diane nukuri
hansen BAY
Hansen Bay, a previous national coach, is an exceptionally experienced Sports Performance Psychologist, with experience coaching all levels; from juniors to Olympians.