Thousands of runners join “12th Korat Loifaa Marathon” amidst cool breeze and scenic view of Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant’s reservoir
4 December 2023Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), and Sports Authority of Thailand organized the 12th Korat Loifaa Marathon, welcoming almost 4,000 runners to enjoy the cool breeze and stunning views of the upper reservoir and wind farm of Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant. The event aims to promote the province as a sports city, stimulate local economy, and support Thai tourism.
On December 3, 2023, Mr. Siam Sirimongkol, Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, presided over the opening ceremony of the 12th Korat Loifaa Marathon at the upper reservoir of Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant, Khao Yai Thiang Nua Village, Khlong Phai Sub-district, Sikhio District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The event was also attended by Mr. Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy; Mr. Somkiat Wiriyakulnan, Deputy Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province; Mr. Prasit Upachitr, Assistant Director-2 of North Eastern Region Hydro Power Plant Division, EGAT; the public and private sectors; the general public; and nearly 4,000 runners from Thailand and around the world.
Mr. Siam Sirimongkol, Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, said that Nakhon Ratchasima Province has been declared a sports city due to its effort in developing the sports industry which can create value added and promote the economy and tourism. The 12th Korat Loifaa Marathon helps strengthen immunity through physical exercise, promote the province to be a sports city, support local tourism, generate income for communities, and revive Nakhon Ratchasima tourism.
Mr. Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, stated that the Korat Loifaa Marathon originated from a collaboration between Nakhon Ratchasima Province and various public and private agencies to encourage people to work out. Along the competition route, the runners and tourists could enjoy the beautiful view of Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant, a part of Korat Geo Park, which also serves as a learning center of renewable energy.
Mr. Prasit Upachitr, Assistant Director-2 of North Eastern Region Hydro Power Plant Division, EGAT, mentioned that the Korat Loifaa Marathon has been organized for 12 consecutive years since 2012, which proves its success on both local economy development and community-based tourism. Due to this success, the power plant has been recognized as one of the five Unseen New Series of the Northeastern region by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and awarded Kinnaree Awards in 2021. In every year, a lot of Thais and foreigners participate in this running race, and many tourists from across Thailand visit the event. With the fresh air and scenic views of the upper reservoir of Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant, along with the sight of 14 wind turbines, both runners and tourists can enjoy a delightful experience.
This year’s race comprised three categories: 21.1 km Half Marathon, 10.5 km Mini Marathon, and 5 km Fun Run. The winner of the Half Marathon received the trophy and 200,000 Baht cash.
Besides, there were five special prizes for runners in the fancy outfits with the “colorful day” concept, namely 3,000 Baht cash for the first place, 2,000 Baht cash for the second place, and 1,000 Baht cash for the third to fifth places.
Apart from the running race, there were community products, foods, and drinks sold at the event.
