International Runners Race to Record-Breaking Laguna Phuket International Marathon
Thousands of international visitors are racing to Phuket for the Laguna Phuket International Marathon next month, despite Thailand’s political quandary.
The upsurge in overseas entries has put the paradise island event, now in its fifth year, on track to host the country’s second biggest full marathon of more than 600 runners after the long-established Bangkok Marathon.
Total entries for the complete field of full marathon, half marathon, 10.5km run, 2km children’s run and 5km family walk are up 20 per cent on the same period in 2009.
Organisers predict a record total of more than 5,000 entrants from some 45 countries will take part on Sunday, 13th June, making Laguna Phuket International Marathon the fastest-growing destination marathon in South-east Asia.
Race Director Roman Floesser of organiser Go Adventure Asia said: “We’re delighted so many international visitors will be coming to Phuket for a run in paradise around the picture postcard countryside and beach scenery of Laguna Phuket. “
“It’s particularly pleasing that our full marathon is now beginning to rival the popularity of the Bangkok Marathon, a regional fixture established for more than 20 years.”
International entries have been received from as far afield as Australia and Japan, as well as from Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and around Thailand.
Runners will include last year's marathon winners, Stephen Paine from Australia and Katja Fink of Switzerland, as well as Italian Stefano Passerello, winner of the 2008 half marathon.
“We’re encouraging more entries from club and group teams to add to the fun atmosphere that is always generated,” said Roman Floesser. The event is preceded by a two-day expo featuring sponsor booths and fun activities.
Runners will also be encouraged to take part in fundraising, either for their own chosen charity or for Laguna Phuket’s fund-raising efforts to support local schools.
The marathon begins at Laguna Phuket and takes in various local areas on a mainly flat course, including a village market, rubber plantation, rice fields and beach views, before finishing back at Laguna Phuket.
Online registration is open until 5th June. For further information or to register, visit: www.phuketmarathon.com
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