Phuket Roars! Mighty Chinese Elite Runners Sweep Championships at “Laguna Phuket Marathon 2026” as 7,000 Runners and Superstars Clash in 20th Anniversary Spectacle
The phenomenal sports extravaganza, “Laguna Phuket Marathon 2026 Presented by Supersports,” has concluded with resounding success and unforgettable moments, grandly celebrating its 20th anniversary. The event drew an army of over 7,000 runners into the fierce competition. The highlight of the race belonged to the formidable squad of elite runners from China who showcased their incredible stamina, sweeping the major race championships amidst a vibrant atmosphere filled with superstars and influencers pushing their limits.
The highly anticipated “Sunrise Run”—featuring the Full Marathon (42.195 KM) and Half Marathon (21.0975 KM)—kicked off the endurance battle in the early hours of Sunday, June 14, 2026, at 04:00 AM at Laguna Grove. The race was officially flagged off by Mr. Nirat Pongsitthithaworn, Governor of Phuket. He was joined by esteemed VIPs, including Ms. Siriwan Seeharach, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office; Mr. Somchai Semmanee, Director of the Phuket Provincial Tourism and Sports Office; Mr. Eddy See Hock Lye, President and CEO of Banyan Group; Mr. Paul Wilson, Managing Director of Laguna Phuket; Mr. Alexandre Hammel, President of CRC Sports Co., Ltd.; Ms. Wiyada Buranapakorn, Senior Assistant Vice President of Marketing at CRC Sports Co., Ltd.; and Mr. Roman Floesser, CEO of Phuket Marathon Co., Ltd.
In the premier Full Marathon category, the elite squad from China, competing in this arena for the first time, delivered spectacular performances exactly as anticipated, showcasing their blazing pace to sweep the championships. In the Male Full Marathon category, ZHIPENG HUANG surged across the finish line first with an incredible time of 02:45:35 hours. In the Female Full Marathon category, LING WU displayed pure dominance, leaving her competitors behind to claim the women’s crown with a time of 03:03:46 hours.
Beyond the thrilling battle among the race leaders, this year’s course was bursting with color and energy from a star-studded lineup. Leading the pack was superstar actress “Anne Thongprasom,” who brought her fitness and radiant smile to conquer the Half Marathon (21.0975 KM). Meanwhile, the ultimate sporty couple, “Toon Bodyslam” (Artiwara Kongmalai) and his beautiful wife “Koy Rachwin Kongmalai,” along with their kids Vela and Talay, joined the 2KM Junior Run, spreading sweet family vibes that delighted fellow runners. Top-tier runner influencers also joined the fray to test their fitness and inspire the 7,000-strong crowd, including Team Run with Xa (Coach Xa and Coach Ne), Team Sua Phen (Coach Win, Coach Toon, Coach Kaew, Khun Tong), and “Earth Oscar.”
The 20th-anniversary event was held under the “Sunset-Sunrise” concept, split across two days to offer distinct experiences. On Saturday, June 13, the “Sunset Run” allowed participants to enjoy the evening beach vibe, featuring the 2KM Junior Run for youth, the 5KM, and the 10KM. Notably, in the “70 Years & Over” age category, the oldest competitor was 83 years old, racing in the 5KM. Mr. Araks Thongtan crossed the finish line with a time of 51:56 minutes, and Mr. Somboon Chaipinijphan finished in 33:46 minutes. This truly reflects the event’s commitment to “Inclusive Sport” for people of all ages.
Aside from the fierce on-course competition, the runners also united to make a charitable impact off the track. Through the “Running Club Affiliate Program,” over 40,000 THB in registration contributions was presented to Laguna Phuket to be forwarded to the Children First Fund (CFF). This fund will support the nutritional needs of more than 400 underprivileged children in Phuket. This marks a beautiful and triumphant conclusion to the 20th-anniversary celebration, succeeding in both sports and social responsibility.
The “Laguna Phuket Marathon 2026 Presented by Supersports” once again highlights the robust collaboration between the public and private sectors in Phuket. Led by Phuket Province, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Laguna Phuket, Phuket Marathon, Supersports, and numerous network partners, this unified effort continues to drive Phuket’s sustainable growth as a premier international “Sport Event Destination.”
Get ready for a new challenge in the “Laguna Phuket Marathon 2027 Presented by Supersports.” Sports fans can follow all the updates and check official race results at www.phuketmarathon.com or Facebook: Laguna Phuket Marathon.
