Laguna Phuket Triathlon returns in November 2024 for its 30th edition, welcoming elite athletes and expanding events for all skill levels.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Laguna Phuket announced the 30th edition of the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, scheduled for 16-17 November 2024. This landmark event, held at the picturesque Laguna Grove, promises to be a grand celebration of athletic excellence, drawing over 1,000 triathletes from around the world.
A Historic Milestone in Triathlon
As Southeast Asia’s longest-running and most prestigious triathlon event, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon has earned the nickname “Race of Legends” for its storied history and reputation. The 2024 event marks three decades of the competition, a testament to its enduring popularity and success. This year, the event introduces a new, more challenging course designed to attract elite competitors and enthusiasts alike. The race is strategically timed during Phuket’s peak tourist season, from November 2024 to April 2025, adding to the island’s allure as a global destination.
Collaborations and Partnerships
The 30th anniversary of the Laguna Phuket Triathlon is supported by key national partners, including Phuket Province, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, and Thai Airways. These partnerships underscore the event’s significance on both a national and international level.
The Event Experience
Participants in this year’s triathlon will have the opportunity to compete on a course that highlights the natural beauty of Phuket while maintaining the high standards of organisation and safety that Laguna Phuket is known for. The race includes multiple categories to cater to different levels of competitors:
Distinguished guests at the Bangkok launch with Mr. Sopon Suwannarat, Governor of Phuket Province (centre)
- Triathlon Elite, Individual, and Team Relay categories: Featuring a 1.8 km swim in the Andaman Sea and lagoon, a 50 km bike ride through scenic countryside, and a 12 km run within the Laguna Phuket complex.
- Sprint Triathlon: A shorter version with a 0.5 km swim, 20 km bike ride, and 6 km run.
- Duathlon: For those who prefer to skip the swim, this event includes a 4 km run, 50 km bike ride, and 12 km run.
The triathlon features a prize pool of $20,000, adding to the competitive spirit of the event.
Inclusivity and New Additions
In its 30th year, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon is expanding its appeal with new events and inclusivity initiatives. The popular “Charity Fun Run” returns on 16 November, offering a 6 km run for families, friends, and the community, emphasizing fun and fitness. Additionally, the event introduces the “Laguna Phuket Open Water Swim Presented by TriHub,” a new challenge for seasoned swimmers and first-timers alike, set against the stunning backdrop of Phuket’s waters.
Honouring Triathlon Legends
The 30th edition of the triathlon will be graced by world-class athletes, including legends like Simon Thompson, the 2003 champion, and Yvonne Van Vlerken, who placed 3rd in the 2017 female championship. The event will feature 12 professional male athletes, including Richard Varga, Charlie Quin, Joel Wooldridge, Gaetan Fetaud, and others, as well as 7 professional female athletes, such as Kate Bevilaqua, Kate Waugh, Sian Rainsley, and Dimity Lee Duke.
Sustainability Initiatives
Beyond its success as a sporting event, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon in Thailand remains committed to sustainability. Paul Wilson, Vice President and Deputy Managing Director of Laguna Phuket, emphasized the event’s dedication to environmental responsibility. The triathlon will continue to implement eco-friendly practices, such as reducing single-use plastics, promoting waste separation, and supporting local conservation efforts. These initiatives ensure that the event not only provides an outstanding experience for participants but also contributes to preserving Phuket’s natural beauty for future generations.
Accommodation and Hospitality
Participants and spectators can enjoy luxurious accommodation at various resorts within the Laguna Phuket complex, including Angsana Laguna Phuket, Banyan Tree Phuket, Cassia Phuket, Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, HOMM Suites Laguna, and SAii Laguna Phuket. These accommodations offer modern amenities and are conveniently located near the competition venue, with complimentary shuttle bus and boat transfers available.
Andrew J Wood was born in Yorkshire England, he is a former hotelier, Skalleague and travel writer. Andrew has 48 years of hospitality and travel experience. Educated at Batley Grammar School and a hotel graduate of Napier University, Edinburgh. Andrew started his career in London, working with various hotels. His first posting overseas was with Hilton International, in Paris, and he later arrived in Asia in 1991 on Bangkok with his appointment as Director of Marketing at the Shangri-La Hotel and has remained in Thailand ever since. Andrew has also worked with the Royal Garden Resort Group now Anantara (Vice President) and the Landmark Group of Hotels (Vice President of Sales and Marketing). Latterly he has been the General Manager at the Royal Cliff Group of Hotels in Pattaya and the Chaophya Park Hotel Bangkok & Resorts.
A past board member and Director of Skål International (SI), a former National President with SI Thailand and a two time past President of the Bangkok Club. Andrew is the former President of Skål Asia. In 2019, Andrew was awarded SKÅL’s highest award the distinction of Membre D’Honneur.
He is a regular guest lecturer at various Universities in Asia.
