CHASE THE FEELING - Interview with Mark Ong

2. 4. 2025 • 2 min. reading

In this interview, Mark Ong opens up about his preparation and the unforgettable moments he experiences during the Berlin Half Marathon. He shares what it takes to get race-ready, the key moments that keep him going, and what it truly feels like to chase that unbeatable race-day energy—when your body’s flying, and your mind’s laser-focused on the finish line.

1. Mark, how did you prepare for the Berlin Half Marathon? Were there any key moments in your training?
Normally, I do a six-week prep with intervals, tempo runs, and long, steady endurance runs. This time, I added intense strength training – I'm curious to see how it’ll play out on race day.

2. How important is the right race-day outfit for you? What are your must-haves?
On race day, I need to feel good. Comfortable, stylish gear helps boost my confidence and achieve my goals. My three must-haves: cap, singlet, necklace.

adidas

Men's

Running shoes adidas ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 4 M Berlin - Black

Running shoes adidas ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 4 W Berlin - White

White

€250,00

37⅓ 38 38⅔ 39⅓ 40 40⅔

adidas

Men's

Tank top adidas Adizero Road to Records - Red

Tank top adidas Adizero Road to Records - Black

Tank top adidas Adizero - White

Shorts adidas Adizero Control - Red

Shorts adidas Adizero 3inch - Black

Black

€65,00

S-2" L-2" L-3'' M-5" XL-3'' XL-5" 2XL-2"

adidas

Men's

Shorts adidas Adizero 2in1 - Black

adidas Run x Grafic Socks - Black

Black

€18,00

3. How does it feel to stand on the starting line when the race is about to begin?
Everyone has prepared and set their goals. You can really feel the motivation from the other runners and the vibes in the air – pure energy that makes the race feel like an experience even before you take the first step.

4. Is there a specific moment in the race when you feel that special race day feeling the most?
For me, it’s always the cheer zone – the community gives you an extra energy boost. And then, of course, the crunch time: the last few kilometers when you have to keep your pace, but also feel the excitement of chasing your PB.

5. How do you handle tough moments during the race? What motivates you to keep going?
That’s when focus kicks in: block out the goal, ignore the whining voice in your head, and just take it one kilometer at a time until you finally reach the finish line.

6. What does “Chase the Feeling” mean to you personally?
It’s that feeling of being on PB pace, running faster than you ever thought possible. At the same time, you know you’ve still got some energy left, and you can push through the last few kilometers – but there’s also that moment of nervousness, wondering if you’ll break down in the final stretch. The feeling of flying, but also stepping into uncharted territory.

7. And finally: If you had to describe the Berlin Half Marathon in three words, what would they be?
Berlin never disappoints.