Thousands race through cool breeze in “13th Korat Loifaa Marathon”
Nakhon Ratchasima Province, EGAT, and SAT hosted the 13th Korat Loifaa Marathon, welcoming almost 3,000 runners to participate in the race amidst a cool breeze and picturesque scenery of the upper reservoir and wind farm of Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant. The event aims to stimulate the local economy through sports tourism.
On December 7, 2024, Mr. Chaiwat Chuenkosum, Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, presided over the “13th Korat Loifaa Marathon,” in which Mr. Chawalit Kankham, Assistant Governor – Renewable Power Plant of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT); Miss Theerarat Romruen, Director of Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) – Nakhon Ratchasima Office; and almost 3,000 runners also attended, at the upper reservoir of Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
Mr. Chaiwat Chuenkosum, Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, revealed that the province has just been announced by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports as a sports city which is playing a vital part in adding economic value through a comprehensive sports promotion, including tourism and establishment of regional sports hub. The 13th Korat Loifaa Marathon will stimulate the public to play sports for health, boost the economy and tourism, generate income for the locals, and promote provincial tourism.
Mr. Chawalit Kankham, EGAT Assistant Governor – Renewable Power Plant, said that the Korat Loifaa Marathon has been organized for 13 consecutive years since 2012, reflecting its sustainable success on both local economy development and community-based tourism. The power plant has been therefore recognized as one of the five Unseen New Series of the Northeastern region by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and awarded the Kinnaree Awards in 2021 under the Thailand Tourism Awards. Every year, tons of Thai and foreign runners and tourists from across Thailand bustlingly join the event and are impressed by the fresh cool air and the scenic views of the upper reservoir of Lamtakong Jolabha Vadhana Power Plant, and the sight of gigantic wind turbines.
The running race comprised three categories: 21.1 km Half Marathon, 10.5 km Mini Marathon, and 5 km Fun Run, each classified by age and gender. The winners of Half Marathon and Mini Marathon received a trophy and cash of 12,000 and 10,000 Baht, respectively.
Besides, there were special prizes for runners in fancy outfits under the “Korat Monogram” concept: 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.
At the event, tourists and runners also enjoyed shopping for community products of Sikhio District such as organic agricultural products, Sikhio’s signature food, and Korat Wagyu Beef.
