During the weekend of September 17-18th two spectacular sporting events return to the shores of Koh Samui.

On Saturday September 17th, returning for a third edition of The Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series “The ibis Koh Samui Trophy” is scheduled to take place. Supported by ibis Hotels Thailand, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Tourism Association of Koh Samui and the Thai Hotel Association of Koh Samui, the Adventure Race is expected to attract over 100 teams from around the world.

Adventure Racing is a new sport that has exploded in popularity across Asia. Disciplines include cycling, running, kayaking and swimming which will stretch competitors to their limits. The competitors hike and run through tropical forest, paddle and swim in the sea and cycle over hills with spectacular scenery and challenging terrain.
“After the tremendous international success of the last River Kwai Trophy in Kanchanaburi, we are very excited to bring quality Adventure Racing in Samui again,” explains Serge Henkens, the Race Director and managing director of Active Management Asia.

As well as the racing itself, The ibis Koh Samui event will also feature 3 days of activities, including an expo for sponsors to promote their products and services, parties and VIP hospitality, a crowd pleasing sprint Adventure Race, a kids fun run through Bophut Fisherman’s Village, dance shows and songs from local schools and the final Trophy presentation party. For more information on the adventure race visit their website:
www.kohsamuitrophy.com

On Sunday 18th September 2011, after the huge success of the first marathon last year, the second Samui Island Marathon is scheduled to take place.

In collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Samui Municipal and the Tourism Association of Koh Samui, Bangkok Airways will be hosting the annual international marathon.

With a goal of bringing more tourists to the island during the off-season, this sports activity gives another reason for people to spend time on Koh Samui.

Encouraging runners from all over the world to enter, the first place winners, both men and women, will receive HRH Princess Mahachakri Sirindhor’s cup and prize money of 150,000 Baht.

There are four runs to choose from: a full marathon (42.19km); a half marathon (21.1km); a quarter marathon (10.55km); and, a student marathon (5km). In addition to the options, there will also be a fun-run marathon of only 2km. All are welcome to participate in the event.

Furthermore, the organizers have set the competition route on the ring road around the Samui island where spectacular scenery is seen.

The race will start and finish at Nathon Pier. For more information on the marathon please visit : www.bangkokair.com/samui-island-marathon