Traditionally the event features a health walk and run, a fun run, a mini marathon and a half marathon, which has seen numbers grow substantially over the years, with over 3,000 local and international participants involved last year.
However, organisers announced on Tuesday (Oct 21) that this year’s event will now also incorporate a full 42km marathon distance to truly test willing athletes.
The 29th edition of the hugely-popular occasion will take place on Sunday, Dec 14 with the following categories included:
- A 2.5km health walk and run
- A 6km fun run
- A 10.5km mini marathon
- A 21km half marathon
- A 42km marathon
Each race will have separate divisions for male and female participants which will be broken up into age specific categories, with major cash prizes, medlas and trophies awarded to the top three-placed athletes in each.
Organisers explained that a chip timing system will be used for ranking and that they reserve the right regarding bib number trading with prize eligibility disqualified in the event that the name does not match the bib runner.
Phuket officials have previously detailed how the Kathu is a area very well suited to hosting long distance running events as it provides suitable terrain such as slopes and long, flat stretches through beautiful natural scenery.
The occasion also provides an important and much welcome boost to the local economy, with businesses profiting from the number of people who descend on the area before, during and after the event.
Furthermore, the event aligns with the local government policy to promote exercise as an effective way to achieve and sustain a healthier lifestye among local residents.
Full details on the Dec 14 event can be found here.