Thai Health Organization and the Office of the Convention and Exhibition Promotion (Public Organization) Hua Hin Municipality led an organization of “Hua Hin Women’s Half Marathon 2022 Friendship Race with Nagoya Women’s Marathon”, the first international Next Normal women’s running festival on February 13, 2022 at the starting point, 19 Rai Public Park, and the finish line, the 7 Eastern Kings of Siam at Rajabhakti Park. The event was not only to promote health awareness but to stimulate the economy of the city.
Dr. Pairote Sao Nuam, Assistant Manager of Thai Health Organization said that according to the survey report from the Thailand Physical Activity Knowledge Development Center (TPAK), Mahidol University, together with STI, it is found that Thai women have barriers to adequate physical activity. Over the past decade, women have had a less physical activity level than men as the organization plays a major role in promoting and supporting people of all age groups to have an adequate level of physical activity. Therefore, he saw the importance of organizing “Hua Hin Women’s Half Marathon 2022” to help increase awareness among Thai women of the importance of running for good health.
Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayudhya, Director of the Convention and Exhibition Bureau or TCEB, one of the other sponsors of this running event, said that TCEB strives to encourage every party in Thailand to create a safe standard running field and a new dimension of running standards for women in Thailand. As a Thai strategic coastal tourism area, Hua Hin has demonstrated its economic potential very well in many areas, resulting in being selected as a venue for this significant event. Through this marathon event, a model of co-creation was initiated as a pilot project from which many cities in Thailand can study and apply. The event also reinforced the success of the concept ‘Festival Economy’ organized through festivals and mass sports events.
Hua Hin is home to major festival celebrations and personal leisure get-aways for both Thai people and foreigners. Propelled by the pandemic, the city has received more attention than ever as a hot destination for the beachy vibe and the exotic pool-villa experience, perfect for a quick change of air from the routine urban lifestyle.
