Buriram Marathon Marks 10th Year as Thailand’s Top Night Race

Pictures courtesy of Buriram Marathon

Thailand’s premier night-running event returned to the national spotlight as the Buriram Marathon staged its 10th edition, drawing nearly 36,000 runners and reaffirming its status as one of the country’s most prestigious road races. Held in Buriram province, the event generated significant sporting and tourism activity, with tens of thousands of spectators lining the route and local businesses reporting a surge in demand.

The Buriram Marathon 2026 attracted 35,789 runners from Thailand and overseas, supported by more than 7,000 volunteers and cheered by over 70,000 spectators. The race began at the Chang International Circuit and finished at the Chang Arena, two of the province’s most recognisable sporting venues, creating a festival-like atmosphere throughout the night.

Now in its 10th year, the marathon has grown into a flagship event on the Southeast Asian running calendar. The opening ceremony and race start were presided over by Mr Piya Pijnam, Governor of Buriram, alongside Mr Newin Chidchob, Chairman of the Chang International Circuit, and senior representatives from the public and private sectors, reflecting the event’s national profile.

The race was staged under the World Athletics Road Race Label, allowing results to be used for qualification at international events. Competitors raced across four certified distances: the marathon (42.195km), half marathon (21.1km), mini marathon (10km), and fun run (4.554km), with participation spread across all categories.

In the Open Men’s Marathon, Kenya’s Barnabas Kiplimo claimed victory in 2 hours, 21 minutes and 16 seconds, followed by defending champion Wondwesen Damte of Ethiopia in 2:22:52 and Julius Manas of Kenya in 2:27:34. Thailand’s leading distance runner Ton–Sanchai Namket finished in 2:29:24 to win the Thai men’s title, securing the Royal Trophy of HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati for a record seventh time.

In the women’s marathon, Marta Birehan of Ethiopia won in 2:51:01, while Arongkorn Wongsa claimed second place in 2:53:28 to become the top Thai finisher for the first time. Linda Jantachit, a six-time former Thai champion, finished third in 3:01:16.

Organisers said the marathon continues to strengthen Buriram’s reputation as a sports hub, combining international standards with strong community participation. Looking ahead, the event will remain staged under World Athletics certification, with organisers focusing on developing Thai runners and maintaining the race’s role as a qualifying platform for global competitions.

Key Takeaways

• The Buriram Marathon 2026 attracted 35,789 runners and more than 70,000 spectators to its 10th anniversary event.

• Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes dominated the open categories, while Ton–Sanchai Namket won the Thai men’s title for the seventh time.

• The race was held under the World Athletics Road Race Label, enabling international qualification times.

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Amarin 2026-01-26