More than 900 pre-registered plus another 100 or more runners joined by many more bystanders, typically ‘showing the colours’ by wearing the distinctive Sunset Run official t-shirt, have taken part in one of the region’s most successful events, set to become a annual signature community occasion.
With many parts of Thailand dealing with the trauma of flooding with ongoing heavy rains, ideal weather conditions with calm waters, blue skies and not a drop of rain greeted the crowds. Hua Hin may have experienced some heavy showers in recent weeks, but most favourable weather conditions were in evidence; demonstrating that Hua Hin has Thailand’s best weather all year round.
For an event staged on the ninth day of the ninth month, the Khao Tao venue provided the ideal venue, an opportunity to recognise the contribution of King Rama IX to the region’s history.
This was the country’s first water resource development project under an initiative of the late monarch, built to provide water to drought-hit villagers for consumption and agriculture.
The backdrop of the pavillion with the King’s portrait standing offshore was an ever-present reminder of that legacy.
Recent renovations to the surrounds and the walkway, a favourite daily path for walkers and runners, added to attraction of the lake and surrounds to be the focus for the Sunset Run.
The success of the Sunset Run was testament to a combination of cooperative organisation, timely marketing, clear communication and community support. That communication included information to all sectors of the media, including graphic promotional material including English language information.
This included the ability of Surf 102.5 FM to broadcast live lake-side at the event.
Complaints by members of the expat community that they often unaware that many big events are taking place, certainly did not apply to this event.
The organisers should be congratulated for their most cooperative approach, along with the municipality and even local shopping malls making provision for registrations and the collection of running attire and the like.
The Hua Hin and Cha-Am Tourism Association committee and members, led by President Ms Wassana Srikanchana, deserve congratulations for taking the lead role in the staging of this most memorable community event as a benchmark for future events.
As an Association committee member told us “We didn’t hire a professional event organiser; we organised this ourselves; tired but proud”.
The Association Facebook page with event videos and more pictures may be seen at: https://www.facebook.com/huahinchaamtourismassociation
