Driving Phuket’s revival as a world-class sports tourism destination, the Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon will welcome runners from more than 40 countries.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – The Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon is set to welcome over 8,000 runners from more than 40 countries to the tropical island of Phuket to compete in Southeast Asia’s favourite destination marathons. Held 10-11 June, 2023 at Laguna Phuket, the award-winning Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon is one of the longest-running international sports events on Phuket and is driving the island’s resurgence as a world-class sports tourism destination.
Internationally-certified by IAAF AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) and a qualifying event for the Boston Marathon, the Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon is organised by GAA Events and has set the gold standard for 17 years. Focussed on delivering a world-class experience for all participants and their supporters, the Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon is a key economic driver for the island’s tourism economy.
“Entries are looking strong with thousands already confirmed from across Thailand and overseas. What’s particularly encouraging this year is the return of interest from international participants. The pandemic limited international travel and as Phuket sees a resurgence in international arrivals we are also seeing growing interest amongst overseas runners and their families wanting to combine a run with a holiday in Phuket,” said Charlie Jung, Assistant Race Director, GAA Events, organizer of the Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon.
From children and families, to age-groupers and top talent across Thailand and from overseas, the Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon attracts participants of all ages and abilities with its popular two day format and festival atmosphere at the start/ finish line at Laguna Grove. Popular Thai actor and singer Somchai Kemglad (a.k.a. Tao Somchai) will be running the marathon distance at this year’s event.
The famously scenic course takes runners past local villages, fruit plantations and through the beachfront Sirinat National Park. A twist to the popular two day format sees the 2km kids run, 5km and 10.5km take place on the morning of Saturday 10th June, and the Half Marathon (21.0975km), Marathon Relay (42.195km) and Marathon (42.195km) on the morning of Sunday 11th June.
Speaking of Supersports’ involvement in the event, Erlinda Petpisit, Omnichannel Customer Director, CRC Sports, operator of Supersports, said “We’re excited to again partner with GAA Events and the Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon. With a growing interest in sports and exercise, and healthy living in general, the event provides an exciting way for us to reach this health conscious audience and engage with them in a meaningful way.”
“With Thailand’s recovery well and truly underway, we’re delighted to welcome Thai and international visitors back to Laguna Phuket and are looking to showcase the island as a world-class tourism and sports destination,” said Paul Wilson, VP, Deputy Managing Director, Laguna Phuket. “We have partnered with Supersports Laguna Phuket Marathon since the very beginning and work closely with the local community each year to ensure the benefits are dispersed. Through Laguna Phuket Foundation’s Children First Fund (CFF), we support more than 400 underprivileged children in seven orphanages in Phuket and we encourage all runners and spectators to help make a difference by supporting our efforts.”
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.