More than 1,500 people joined the occasion last Sunday (Apr 19) to embark on a 10.5 kilometre route through Sirinath National Park in the north west of the island. Starting at Nai Thon Beach Park and ending at Ching Pla Market at Nai Yang Beach, the route was intended to provide participants a challenging workout while promoting the natural beauty of the local area.
The route was a combination of road, trail and beach through local communities and stunning natural environment including lush green mountains, which saw athletes of all ages and ability participate.
The race was divided into six separate age specific groups for male and female athletes, with the top three finishers in each category receiving a trophy and cash prize, while all participants received commemorative T-shirts and medals.
Phuket Vice Governor Suwit Phansengiam oversaw the opening ceremony ahead of the race and was joined by: Sakhu Mayor Trin Panyawai; Phuket Airport General Manager Monchai Tanode; Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO) President Rewat Areerob; head of Sirinath National Park Papawin Hang; in addition to selected government officials and representatives from various public and private sector organisations from Phuket and numerous nationwide provinces.
Mr Trin explained after the race that it had proven to be so successful that authorities and organisers were already making plans to organise three more in the coming years.
“The goal is to establish this event as a landmark occasion in the international running world calendar that will attract many people to participate,” Mr Trin said.
“It is not too difficult a trail, meaning it is accessible for all levels of fitness, while the stunning route offers participants an opportunity to experience nature up close, taking in trails across lush green mountain terrain, vibrant local communities and beautiful white sand beaches.
“It is an ideal opportunity to reaffirm the standing of Sakhu as one of the important ‘lungs’ of Phuket province as its possesses some of the best quality air on the island, perfect for physical pursuits like this,” he added.
“It can also help promote Phuket as an ideal sports-tourism destination for international clientele, which can help promote the local region while boosting its economy,” Mr Trun concluded.