Bangkok--17 Jan--Spark Communications
Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) welcomed a bright start to the year 2019 with its 7th annual charity run, BITEC Half Marathon 2019. The joyful event was joined by over 7,000 runners, both professionals and amateurs who all congregated at the starting line at BITEC Exhibition and Convention Center.
Ms. Panittha Buri, Managing Director of Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) and host of BITEC Half Marathon 2019 said: "The BITEC Half Marathon charity run has been held consecutively for the 7th year – with the objective of advocating the importance of health care in Thai society. This is done through the promotion of running, which is an activity that benefits people both physically and mentally, as well as reinforcing a good relationship within friends and family. This year, we are happy to announce that a part of the proceeds will be given towards the Sai Jai Thai Foundation under the Royal Patronage, in order to give back to the society, which is one of BITEC's core mission throughout the years."
"More importantly for 2019, BITEC recognizes the importance of physical health of the disabled, which is why we invited the visually impaired and their guide runners to join the BITEC Half Marathon for free. This in turn will encourage them to have a healthy body and healthy mind via participation in a group activity that fosters closeness within the society," Ms. Panittha added.
In terms of venue, BITEC prepared its spacious vicinity and fully equipped facilities to the runners' convenience including car parks, mobile toilets, food and beverage, refreshments and emergency units from Thainakarin Hospital and Bangna General Hospital 1. The local police also facilitated in traffic control to keep the runners safe and sound throughout the run.
The BITEC Half Marathon 2019 is divided into three categories - a half-marathon (21.1km), mini-marathon (10km), and a micro marathon (5km). The winners of the over-all half marathon for male and female are both international runners from Kenya, whom received a royal trophy on behalf of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn - with a record running time of 1 hour 9 minutes and 54 seconds from Mr. Joseph Ngare. The 21.1 km runners and the 10 km runners were also provided with a timing chip to allow them an accurate tracking device for their running pace.
Moreover, the first, second and third winners of the 21.1km went home with a trophy and cash prizes worth 7,000, 5,000 and 3,000 baht, respectively. The first, second and third winners of the 10km were awarded a trophy and cash prizes worth 5,000, 4,000 and 3,000 baht, respectively. All runners who completed the race received a Finisher Medal, which commemorated their participation in the BITEC Half Marathon 2019.