Miss the chance to run through Bangkok earlier this month? Just head north next month for an equally grueling race through the kingdom’s capital of the long, long ago.
Ayutthaya greets runners from across the world for its first-ever marathon race Dec. 15 as part of the World Heritage-recognized city’s World Heritage Fair 2013 festivities, which begin Dec. 13.
The event will include a 42.195 km (26 mile) full marathon, a 21.1 km (13.1 mile) half marathon, a 10 km (6.2 mile) mini marathon, and a 3.5 km (2.17 mile) “fun run.” Runners will take a route which passes through the cultural sights, historic buildings and sculptures of the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. It should be a measure less hot as well.
Registered runners who cross the finish line will get a medal and T-shirt. A portion of the proceeds will go toward preserving the Ayutthaya Historical Park.
While there, check out the festival’s celebrations and displays of traditional Thai culture, customs and food.
Runners can register for the event online, but they’ll need some Thai language savvy. The site doesn’t have an English version.
