A video previously emerged online showing a man donning a Superman costume and running across a traffic junction along Bukit Batok.
The man in the viral video is a 57-year-old expat from New Zealand, Simon Wood.
Simon’s remarkable journey, from a life-altering accident at the age of 13 to becoming an avid runner in a Superman costume, has captured the hearts of people worldwide.
@engr.unclekiko Superman in Singapore#superman #superheroes #superheroesmarvel #viralvideo #viraltiktok #singapore #bukitbatok #fyp #fypã‚· #fypã‚·ã‚šviral #foryoupage ♬ Superman – Main Theme – 101 Strings Orchestra
The Viral Sensation
The image of a middle-aged man running in a superhero costume is certainly attention-grabbing, but there’s much more to this story than meets the eye.
Simon, a marketing director, shared with Lianhe Zaobao that it was only in the past year that he decided to don the iconic superhero outfit whenever he goes for a run.
At 13, he got into an accident that rendered him unable to walk after receiving 70 stitches for his injuries, and his simple act carries a profound message: amidst the monotony of daily life, he aims to bring smiles not only to his face but to everyone he encounters; as well as to prove that if he can overcome his odds to learn how to walk again, so can others.
The Costume Ritual
One might wonder about the effort it takes to get into a skin-tight Superman costume. Simon revealed that it requires a 20-minute commitment.
Singapore’s hot and humid climate, notorious for its sweltering heat, does little to deter his determination to spread joy to those around him.
He said that wearing the costume takes him about 20 minutes, and that he has lived in hot countries with 50-degree weathers and previously served in the military, so the heat does little to deter him.
A World Traveler’s Choice
Simon’s life journey has been marked by his adventurous spirit. He has explored over 90 countries around the world, experiencing diverse cultures and landscapes. Despite his global travels, he chose to settle in Singapore a decade ago, where he continues to inspire with his running endeavors.
However, life for Simon has not always been smooth sailing. As a teenager, he faced a life-altering tragedy when he was hit by a motorcycle, leaving him unable to walk.
Rather than resigning himself to life in a wheelchair, Simon embarked on a remarkable journey of rehabilitation. He not only learned to walk again but also challenged himself to embrace other sports such as running and martial arts.
Simon’s determination knows no bounds. He has expressed his intention to keep running until his legs eventually give out on him. A powerful testament to his indomitable spirit, a photograph shared by a Chinese daily showcased Simon participating in the Race Against Cancer 2023 charity run organized by the Singapore Cancer Society on September 17 – once again in his signature Superman costume.
Image source: @engr.unclekiko on TikTok