The countdown begins: 23rd Angkor Wat International Half Marathon quickly approaches
October 26, 2018, Cambodia – Thousands of adventure seekers and athletes from all around the world will make their way to the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon soon approaches its 23rd race day on December 02, 2018.
The race aims to promote health and wellness and raises funds for organizations that support underprivileged children and victims of antipersonnel mines in Cambodia. Beneficiaries include the Kantha Bopha Childrens’ Hospital, the Angkor Hospital for Children, Cambodian Red Cross and other charity organizations in the country.
“2017 was a record year in our event’s history as we had over 10,000 runners from nearly 80 different countries joining the race. It was also the first year that the number of local runners outgrew the international runners by 12%, and that reflects a great awareness towards the event and healthy living among the local people,” said His Excellency Vath Chamroeun, Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC), and Secretary of State of Ministry of Tourism. “With strong supports from Manulife, Wurkz and other sponsors, I’m optimistic that the event will continue to be successful and become a key fundraising platform to serve the charity purpose in Cambodia.”
“This is our fourth consecutive year as principal sponsor of the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon. It’s a great opportunity for us to help our customers, employees and communities have an active, healthy and fulfilled life,” said Robert Elliott, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Manulife Cambodia.
This year Manulife continues its exciting programme as part of the race weekend with the Manulife MOVE Fair, which is free and open to the public for three days from November 30 to December 2.
“We’re looking forward to hosting our Manulife MOVE Fair, which includes a variety of interactive and fun activities that encourage healthy living,” said Robert.
Around 500 runners took part in the first ever Angkor Wat Half Marathon in 1996 and the race has grown in popularity, with numbers continuing to increase each year. Last year, the registration number increased by 10% compared to 2016 making the event an important driver of tourism in Cambodia especially in Siem Reap.
The race starts at 5:50 a.m. and runners can participate in three different race courses – 21 Km, 10 Km, or 3 Km.