Phuket’s ‘Fun Run’ to return

PHUKET: The sound of pounding  running shoes will once again echo around the island when the fifth annual Laguna Phuket International Marathon kicks off on June 13.

Now Asia’s fastest-growing destination marathon, more than 5,000 entrants from 45 countries are expected to take part in the event, which is preceded by a two-day expo featuring sponsors’ booths and fun activities.

In addition to the 42.2km marathon main event, the race day will also feature a 21.1km half marathon, 10.5km run, 2km children’s race and a 5km family walk.

The marathon begins at Laguna Beach Resort and will move through local areas along a mainly flat course, passing by a village market, rubber plantations, rice fields and beaches, before finishing back at Laguna.

Entries received so far are up 15 percent from last year.

Managing Director of Laguna Resorts & Hotels Michael Ayling said the natural beauty of the course and the carnival atmosphere that surrounds the whole event attracts repeat entries and new entries alike.

Amongst the returning runners will be last year’s winners, Stephen Paine from Australia and Katja Fink of Switzerland. Italian Stefano Passerello, winner of 2008’s half marathon, is also expected to race.

Runners will also be encouraged to take part in fundraising, either for their own chosen charity or for Laguna Phuket’s fundraising efforts, to support local schools.

Online registration is open until 5th June. For further information and/or to register, visit phuketmarathon.com.