Samui Joins Bangkok Airways’ Marathon Series

Samui Joins Bangkok Airways’ Marathon Series

Koh Samui has been named as one of the main destinations in Bangkok Airways’ series of running events to be held across Thailand.

The tropical island has long been a favoured destination amongst tourists seeking rest and relaxation. Active, sport enthusiasts will now be able to take part in the Samui Half Marathon on 10^th June.

Those who take part in the event will also have the chance to explore the tropical island from a new perspective, as the route will take them off the beaten track to discover lesser-known parts of the island. Competitors will enjoy fantastic views of Koh Samui’s coastal and jungle scenery, and the atmosphere is predicted to offer a morning of fun for runners and spectators.

Bangkok Airways is organising seven running events in total, spread across a selection of Thailand’s most scenic destinations. The series of events will include five half marathons in Krabi, Koh Samui, Lampang, Phuket and Chiang Mai. There will also be one full marathon in Chiang Rai and a trail-running challenge in Trat.

“Due to the successful feedback last year which drew 15,000 participants, Bangkok Airways is determined to continue hosting the event again this year,” said Kridhakorn Sirabhabhoj, senior director at the marketing communications division of Bangkok Airways. “The series aims to promote tourism at destinations we [Bangkok Airways] fly to, as well as respond to the incremental demand of sport tourism in the global market.”

As part of the events, the airline will also run a ‘Shoes for Kids’ campaign, where runners will be able to donate a pair of shoes to children living in the provinces where the races will take place. Donations to vulnerable local children can also be made via www.teelakow.com.

Visitors participating in Samui’s Half Marathon will also be able to take advantage of a special promotion via www.bangkokair.com/boutiqueactivities. Promotional fares start from THB1,100 (US£35), one-way.

In recent years, Samui has enhanced its reputation as a high-quality destination for active visitors. The island has long been known for it’s superb diving and snorkelling opportunities. A growing number of visitors are also taking part in other sporting activities, such as hiking, cycling and Muay Thai training camps.

Those staying in one of the island’s luxury private villas also have the chance to make the most of excellent fitness facilities, which often include fully equipped gyms. Guests are even able to hire boxing coaches and yoga instructors for private sessions in the villa.