For a number of years now Pattaya's annual Marathons runs have attracted top class runners
from all over the world. But you don't have to be a famous champion to complete; all you need is
a reasonably fit body, lots of energy and an official serial number.
The events kick off on Sonday 20th July with a Fun Run. It will start at 4.30 p.m. in front of the Beach Plaza.
The route of ful Marathon goes from City Hall down to the Beach Road then it turns up South Road. At the traffic lights
(which) will certainly be green!) the runners turn right and race along to Jomtien Beach Road.
At the very end of Jomtien they will turn left and go up to the Sukhumvit Highway and head briefly towards Sattahip. After a
couple of kms, they will double back and run along Sukhumvit all the gruelling way to a point near the new Mercure Hotel. Once
again they will retrace their increasingly weary steps, this time turning right off the Highway and
down through Naklua. By the time they reach the traffic circle at the Dusit Hotel they will be able
to see the finishing line. Plenty of cold drinks, dry towels and well-wishers will be waiting for them.
To most, if not all, of the Marathon runners it won't really matter if they fail to clinch one of
the prizes. Altogether the prize money will amount to about 800,000 Bath, and trophies and medals
will also be awarded. To them, and all good sportsmen and women, simply taking part and doing
the best they can is the most important objective. They deserve our admiration and encouragement.
For more imtroduction : Thai Authority of Tourism. Tel. (02) 2810422 to 144-5.
