Backstabbing, manipulation and deceit. Unlike the Survival television series, none of the participants of "The Ultimate Survival Challange" resorted to such uhgly trickeries.

Instead, they played fair and square like true sportsman, Loud cheers, pats on backs and generous hugs of encouragement showed the high level of team spirit and enthusiams among participants and residents.

The Central Singapore Corporate Challenge 2001 - The Ultimate Survival Challenge was organised by the Central Singapore Community Development Council and targeted at corporate and voluntary welfare organisations within the Central Singapore District.

Held at the Bishan open field, it aimed to promote healthy lifestyle among Singapore's working

individuals as well s to strengthen community cohesion and to raise funds for the less advantaged community.

Guest-of-Honour, Assoc. Prof. Mr Yaacob Ibrahim, Mayor of Central Singapore District and Senior Parliment Secretary for Communications and Information Technology officiated the event.

During his opening adress, Mr Ibrahim expressed his wish to see more corporations move forward to play a part in the community. 16 corporations took part in the event including Singapore Broadcasting Authority, Ministry of Enviornment, Singtel, Far East Organization and NTUC Income Co-operative Ltd.

And each organisation ws paired up with a welfare organisation. Together, participants went through series of mentally and physically exhuasting sporting activities and teambuilding games.

But the event was not confined to the workforce. Several residents including the young and the elderly arrived in the wee hours of the morning just to participate in the mass workout and mass walk round the Bishan Estate.

The crowd followed the fitness instrucotr;s command like clockwork and danced to the rhythms of the balring music with gusto. From a diatance, it resembled a mega Para Para Dance party.

Several participants told Voices they welcomed the event and hoped organisers would consider making it an annual affair.

"It's very good, healthy and develops team spirit among staff and community. We should have it as an annual event," said Shamsuri 37, staff of CA Safety Technology.

Saraswathi Kalaiashok 37, resident said: "I'm here because I stay nearby. ANyway, I always exercise here. I will join in again next time."

The Central Singapore Corporate Challenge 2001 was held in conjunction with the National Healthy Lifestyle Campaign and supported by Health Promotion Board, Singapore Sports Council, National Volunteer Centre and Singapore Soprts Coucil for the Disabled.