Paradise Run expected to see 5,000 hit start line in Phuket

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Paradise Run expected to see 5,000 hit start line in Phuket
The Nation

More than 5,000 runners are expected to take part in this year's Laguna Phuket International Marathon on June 8, the ninth edition of the annual Run Paradise race, which brings thousands to Phuket each year.

Athletes booking their slots in Laguna Phuket's 2014 marathon and triathlon series are being asked to raise funds through donations and sponsorships for the resort's Laguna Phuket Foundation's various charitable programmes. Over the years, more than Bt4.6 million has been raised to fund initiatives like the recently launched "Fully Booked!" Mobile Learning Centre.

"I am very pleased to announce that Laguna Phuket has launched 'Fully Booked!' Mobile Learning Centre in Phuket on April 25. Thanks to all the marathoners and supporters, the centre is ready to serve schoolchildren in Phuket and its neighbouring provinces starting this June," said Prapa Hemmin, director of sales, MICE and corporate events, Laguna Phuket.

"It is our hope to make the race a Run Paradise, where runners enjoy running, meeting their peers and participating in fulfilling charitable causes."

Since the project was initiated two years ago, more than Bt2.2 million has been raised for the centre through the generous support of Laguna Phuket triathletes, marathoners, associates, and community members. A matching contribution of Bt2.2 million was made by Banyan Tree Global Foundation to purchase and outfit the mobile vehicle, along with an additional Bt500,000 for purchase of books and learning materials.

The funding is enough to operate the centre for five academic years, starting from June 2014. Laguna Phuket will continue to raise funds for the centre to keep serving to underprivileged schools even after this initial period.

Runners, supporters, donors, and community members participating at this year's LPIM are invited to visit the centre, which will be showcased at the CSR booth in the event's Expo area. This year's race includes the marathon, half-marathon, 10.5km, 5km walk/run, and 2km for kids, and will also continue its "Green Runner" concept following last year's success in replacing plastic cup with reusable resin cup on the run course.

-- The Nation 2014-05-31