Bangkok Marathon will be one of world’s best, Kobkarn vows
Tourism and Sports Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul hopes to make the Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok one of the top 10 such events in the world within three years.
The inaugural Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok will be held on February 4.
Kobkarn’s ministry has allied with the Ironman Kona World Championship in organising the event, tapping its experience with such major gatherings as the famous Boston Marathon in the US.
Kobkarn expects Bangkok’s inaugural event to draw 30,000 runners, a number she believes will double in the second year.
She anticipates the debut run will generate Bt700 million in revenues for the country and further boost Thailand’s reputation as a tourism destination.
Ironman organisers would ensure the route meets international standards, Kobkarn said.
Starting at Rajamangala Stadium, it will pass landmarks including the Victory Monument, Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall and Golden Mount before finishing at the Democracy Monument.
The ministry is seeking the aid of the private sector, including the Thai Hotels Association and leading tourism firms, to promote the event and offer travel packages linked to it.
Discount “early bird” admission passes will go on sale on November 9 ahead of normal ticket prices coming into effect on January 1.