Carnival Spirit of Laguna Phuket International Marathon Attracts Increasing Numbers

Media Release
05-Apr-2010

Annual Event Now Asia’s Fastest-Growing Destination Marathon

Phuket will once again echo to the pounding of running shoes in June, when the fifth Laguna Phuket International Marathon is staged among the picture postcard scenery that surrounds Asia’s leading destination resort.

More than 5,000 entrants from 45 countries, including Thai nationals, are expected to take part in the event on Sunday, 13th June, which is preceded by a two-day expo featuring sponsor booths and fun activities.
As well as the marathon itself, the event also has a half marathon, 10.5km run, 2km children’s race and a 5km family walk.

Entries received so far are up 15% from the same period last year, and the year-on-year increase in entries from 2,038 in the 2006 inaugural event makes Laguna Phuket International Marathon the largest and fastest-growing destination marathon in Asia.

“The reasons behind this impressive growth and popularity are easy to see,” said Michael Ayling, Managing Director of Laguna Resorts & Hotels.

“Our host facilities at Laguna Phuket, the natural beauty of the course and the carnival atmosphere that surrounds the whole event attracts repeat entries and new entries alike from around the world,” he said.
Race Director Roman Floesser of organiser Go Adventure Asia, said: “The marathon reflects Phuket’s family-friendly atmosphere – it’s a fun event with a range of courses to suit all abilities.

“Although we encourage everyone to strive for a personal best time, there is no prize money for elite runners. We simply want everyone who takes part to run for fun and fitness, and enjoy a run in paradise,” he said.
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 Phuket bound in June.

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

The marathon begins at Laguna Phuket and takes in various local areas on a mainly flat course, including a Thai village market, rubber plantation, rice fields and beach views, before finishing back at Laguna Phuket.

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

Laguna Phuket International Marathon is fun for runners of all ages and abilities.

Entrants from 45 countries will be In this year’s Laguna Phuket International Marathon.

2009 winner Stephen Paine is returning for this year’s Laguna Phuket International Marathon.