PHNOM PENH: The 11th International Half Marathon in Preah Sihanouk province, scheduled for March 22, features several route adjustments, with organisers shifting much of the course to run along nearly 20 kilometres of coastline.
The change aims to increase the event’s appeal for runners while showcasing Cambodia’s beautiful coastal scenery to the world.
During the March 4 press conference, Sem Phalla, executive director of the marathon event organisation in Cambodia, explained that the province’s coastal zones are now well-developed, with asphalt and concrete roads that are highly suitable for running.
The banner 21km race will start at Ochheuteal Beach, proceed to Otres, then turn right toward Deum Chheam Sneha, before looping around the Preah Thong–Neang Neak statue. Runners will circle the statue once and then return along the same coastal road to finish at Ochheuteal Beach.
The 10km, 5km and 3km fun run events will also take place along the coastal area.
Phalla explained that the area surrounding the Preah Thong–Neang Neak statue is well maintained and offers beautiful scenery, while noting that the statue symbolises the historical origins of the Khmer nation, which is why organisers decided to route part of the race through the area.
The course has been measured to international standards by experts from a global marathon organisation.
“This year’s international half marathon features route adjustments to highlight more of the coastal scenery. This will also make it easier to monitor, manage and ensure the safety of runners along the course, while allowing them to enjoy increasingly beautiful and attractive landscapes,” said Phalla.
“The coastal roads in Preah Sihanouk province are clean and stretch for long distances along the sea. For the 21km race, nearly 20km of the route runs beside the coastline — about 16 to 17km in total — making it very favourable for runners while showcasing the safety and beauty of Cambodia’s coastline to the world,” he added.
National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) secretary-general Vath Chamroeun noted that around 2,000 participants have already signed up, including approximately 200 foreign entrants.
He called on more runners, especially those in Cambodia, to register before the deadline to help organisers better manage the event and ensure its success as a showcase for Cambodia on the international stage.
“We hope the number will reach 2,500. We encourage runners to register before the March 22 event date. We invite all athletes to come and enjoy a new running experience along the coastline, where the fresh ocean air provides many benefits for runners, especially professional athletes,” he said. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
