Phuket readies for first-ever International Night Run

PHUKET: Athletes will have the opportunity to run along the streets through Phuket’s historic Old Town under the cover of darkness on November 1 as the island hosts its first Phuket International Night Run.

Phuket City Mayor Somjai Suwansupana unveiled the new event – organized in conjunction with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Sports Authority of Thailand – yesterday.

“Visiting the Old Town area during the day is very interesting, but running along historic roads such as Thalang Road at night is another thing entirely,” Mayor Somjai said.

“This event will give people, Thais and foreigners, a new experience in exercise, and we hope that it will make the Old Town more popular with tourists.”

The competition includes two events: an 11.2km mini-marathon and a 5.5km fun run.

Runners will marshal at the start line at Saphan Hin, with the starter’s gun set to fire at 10:30pm.

Both courses will pass through Old Town and back to Saphan Hin. En route, runners will pass Sino-Portuguese buildings along Thalang Road, much considered the heart of Phuket Town’s cultural heritage, decorated with colorful LED lights.

Entry costs 350 baht per person for the mini-marathon and 250 baht per person for the fun run – but only 100 baht per student in either event.

Each entrant will receive a t-shirt and participant’s medal.

To register or for more information, call 076-211932 or 086-998 6554, visit PhuketNightRun.com or Facebook: Phuket international Night Run 2014.

— Natthaphol Wittayarungrote