ST Photo: Chew Boon Chin

I had no idea that I was photographed.

It was the last day of the Singapore National Schools Track and Field Championships. I was representing Tanjong Katong Technical School in the 2000m Steeplechase 'B' Boys Final.

It was a very hot Saturday afternoon and the stadium was filled with students. I was careful to pace myself so that I would not wear out in the heat.

There were 19 other runners, and we had to clear 20 ordinary barriers and five water jumps.

I became increasingly tired as the race wore on. Then, my right shin hit an obstacle. Water got in my eyes and also soaked my shoes.

As luck would have it, another runner stepped on the back of my shoe - and it came loose.

So, I took them off.

I did not make it for a podium finish. But it was a memorable run.

And never did I expect then, that I would eventually become a photographer with The Straits Times.