Buriram Marathon 2025 Shines as Asia’s Premier Night Race

The Buriram Marathon 2025 once again cemented its status as one of Asia’s leading night marathons, drawing elite runners from nations such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Russia, and Japan. Thousands of amateur athletes and running enthusiasts also took part, with the Fun Run category fostering a sense of community and bringing families together in celebration.

The event began under the dazzling floodlights of Chang International Circuit, offering participants the unique thrill of a night race. The scenic course highlighted Buriram’s iconic landmarks, including the majestic Buriram Castle and the renowned Thunder Castle Stadium, home to Buriram United Football Club.

More than just a competition, the marathon served as a festive showcase of Buriram’s reputation as a global sporting hub. Spectators enjoyed food stalls, cultural performances, and live music along the route, creating a lively atmosphere that drew visitors from across Thailand and abroad.

Governor Anusorn Kaewkantha lauded the marathon’s growing influence, stating, “The Buriram Marathon continues to thrive, placing our province firmly on the global map for sporting events. It’s a wonderful opportunity to welcome international athletes while inspiring our local community to adopt healthier lifestyles.”

Ethiopia’s Wende Wesen Damte emerged victorious in the men’s marathon, completing the 42.195-kilometre course in a blistering 2 hours, 23 minutes, and 21 seconds. Damte maintained a remarkable pace of 3:23 per kilometre, outpacing an elite field of competitors and reinforcing his status as a world-class distance runner.

Thai runner Sanchai Namkhet, a rising star in the national athletics scene, took second place overall while earning the title of fastest Thai runner. Namkhet crossed the finish line in 2 hours, 33 minutes, and 19 seconds, running at an impressive 3:38 per kilometre. Fellow Thai runner Nattawat Innoum claimed the third overall position with a time of 2 hours, 36 minutes, and 12 seconds, averaging 3:42 per kilometre.

In the women’s category, Ethiopian athletes dominated the leaderboard. Yeshiembet Tasew claimed first place with a time of 2 hours, 44 minutes, and 14 seconds, maintaining an average pace of 3:53 per kilometre. Alexandra Morozova of Russia followed closely behind, finishing just two seconds later at 2 hours, 44 minutes, and 16 seconds. Fellow Ethiopian Marta Birehan secured third place with a time of 2 hours, 53 minutes, and 55 seconds, pacing at 4:07 per kilometre.

Linda Chantachit stood out in the women’s Thai category, highlighting the growing prominence of Thai female runners on the international stage.

Held on the night of 25 January 2025, the Buriram Marathon was part of the annual festival sponsored by Chang Natural Mineral Water. The event drew over 30,000 participants competing across four categories: Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon (21.1 km), Mini Marathon (10.0 km), and Fun Run (4.554 km).

With stellar performances from elite international athletes and Thai runners alike, the Buriram Marathon 2025 delivered a spectacular celebration of sport, culture, and community spirit.

Did any AN readers take part in this event?

-- 2025-01-27