The Phukethon 2024 Run Fiesta kicked off at Saphan Hin Public Park at 5am yesterday (May 18) with the official opening of the event presided over by Damrong Chaisena, Director of the Phuket office of the Sports Authority of Thailand.
The initial five-kilometre run was organised in collaboration with Run Rio Thailand and supported by over 10 organisations, including Phuket City Municipality, Mueang Phuket District Office and the Thai Health Promotion Foundation.
With the course winding its way along the streets of Phuket Old Town, highlighting the Sino-European architectural heritage dating back to 1903, the Phukethon run event has now been recognised as a prestigious ‘World Athletics Road Race Label’ event.
This year’s event emphasised environmental responsibility through the ‘Phukethon Go Green’ campaign. Runners were encouraged to bring their own water bottles to reduce plastic waste and used recycled products, including BIB numbers and cloth bags.
The campaign also promoted carpooling, the use of bicycle transportation, and reduced noise pollution, fostering a culture of sustainability.
The ‘road race festival’ event, will concludes today (May 19), is expected to inject over B150 million baht into the local economy, highlighting its significant impact on Phuket’s tourism and community.