Runners from 24 nations competed in the Third Annual Thailand Temple Run

Released on = October 21, 2004, 3:42 am

Press Release Author = Raimund Wellenhofer

Industry = Consumer Services

Press Release Summary = The most unique eco-marathon in Thailand welcomed
international runners from 24 countries to join in "Thailand Temple Run 2004"

Press Release Body = Bangkok, Thailand – The Third Annual Temple Run presented by Tourism Authority Thailand, Go Thailand Tours and Amari Watergate Hotel was held on Sunday 21st March 2004 in Amphoe Ampawa, Samut Songkram. More than 1,100 runners from 24 nations took part in the Marathon, Half Marathon and 10,5 km races.

After a memorable 04:30 AM opening ceremony with traditional food offerings from the athletes to the monks and the abbot of Wat Phumrinkudeethong Temple, TAT deputy governor Khun Santichai Euachongprasit started the Marathon at 05:00AM and 278 competitors went on their 42km journey along the spectacular route. The Half
Marathon and the 10,5 km race went on the way each a half hour later.

During darkness runners were guided by torches along the narrow roads leading
through villages and fruit plantations. At temples and other scenic points
traditional Thai bands were performing and cheering for the runners. At areas with
no music, dozens local dogs encouraged the competitors with well meant barking.

After sunrise the weather Gods showed mercy and protected the athletes with a cloud overcast for the duration of the race. The last runners crossed the finish line
shortly after 11:00 AM – 6 hours after start.

63-year-old Andrew Kotulski from New York City finished his 518th Marathon on Sunday and said: “The Thailand Temple Run is one of the best running experiences I ever had– I most enjoyed all the different bands along the course. My time was very slow today because I had to stop and listen many times. Thailand is unique and beautiful! People are so friendly! I definitely will be back for another holiday.”

Some of Thailand’s elite long distance athletes like Jirasak Sutthichard, Boonchu
Chandeja Boontueng Srisang and female top runner Sunisa competed for the Thai Baht 120,000.- prize money.

Jirasak Sutthichard set a new course record and came in first in the Marathon with a
time of 02:40:00 just seconds before Sonchai Chusakul who was second in 02:40:04 and third place Kordeh Senmud in 2:41:32.

The women’s race winner was local hero Sunisa Sailomyen in 03:15.41 Vannessa Smith from Australia in only her second Marathon ever came in second place with a time of 3:20:43 and third came Dusanee Sae Heng in 3:23:44.

The Half marathon winners was Boontueng Srisang in 1:11:15, Boonchu Chandeja was second in 1:11:22 and third place was won by Sutas Kallayanakitti in1:12:33. The women’s Half Marathon results were: 1.Saifon Pia-wong in 1:27:52; 2. Patcharee
Chaithongsri in 1:27:54; 3. Saipin Patchoon in 1:32:14.

The organizers were delighted with the turnout of participants and together with the
committee of Amphoe Ampawa district they promise to bring on an even bigger and more exiting event in 2005.

Web Site = http://www.thailand-temple-run.com

Contact Details = Raimund Wellenhofer - Race Director
Thailand Temple Run
5th Floor CCT Building
109 Surawong Road
Bangkok 10500
Tel. +66 2 237 6910 - 4
Fax. +66 2 236 0114
Mailto:raceinfo@thailandmarathon.org