Sweating in the Phuket sun
'I don't mind the swim. It's the running and bike race that kill me...' - Photo by Claus Bunks
Desk jockeys like those of us at Phuket Observer are quite happy enjoying Phuket’s tropical weather in the shade of the casuarina trees, with a frosty beer close to hand. But there are those on the island who just itch to get out a sweat a bit. Or a lot.
As a result, there are plenty of healthy (ie, masochistic) activities organised on the island. One of these is coming up soon – the annual Marathon & Fun Run organised by the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation. The event, on May 24, aims to raise funds for the Phuket Marine Biological Center’s sea turtle rescue and conservation efforts.
There will be events for all ages: a 10.5-kilometre mini-marathon, a 3.5-kilometre fun run (fun???) and a 2.5-kilometre family walk (that’s more like it). Registration fees are Bt200, Bt150 and Bt300, respectively.
The organisers have at least had the sense to start early, when it’s cool. Very early – the runners will set off at 5am, with the slowest expected to stagger across the finish line by 9.30.
Non-desk jockeys can register on May 22 at the Phuket Tourism and Sports Office at Sarakul Stadium in Phuket Town or at Turtle Village near the JW Marriott Hotel the following day.
For more information call 086-6892230 or email: info@maikhaoturtlefoundation.com There is also information about turtles here.
The north of the island is a bit of a centre for this kind of jolly event. On May 31, the TriBallistic Club will hold another of its triathlons in and around the Indigo Pearl Resort at Nai Yang Beach. There are races for children, but the real hard boys and girls will be doing a 900-metre swim followed by a bike race of 20 kilometres and then (as if that’s not enough) a 7-kilometre run. No concessions to the heat – the main event starts at 9am so it’ll be pretty toasty by the time they get to the run.
To see more or to register, go here.
