Thai running events face glut

The recent backlash over a fake marathon event indicates Thailand has a glut of running events, and only large and experienced event organisers can survive as runners become more selective to control costs, says the Thai Mass Participation Sports Trade Association (TMPSA).

- MOLPASORN SHOOWONG

On May 25, runners were left stranded at “Run for Destination 2025” at Suanluang Rama IX park as the organiser, who was holding this event for the first time, failed to appear. Several runners filed complaints against the organiser.

Rut Jiroajvanichakorn, president of the TMPSA, said this incident should not affect sentiment for running events, as failed events account for less than 5% of total annual races.

He said the incident highlights how organising a running event is not as easy as some new organisers may believe.

Organising expenses, such as labour and apparel costs, have risen steadily over the past three years, but organisers are unable to raise their ticket prices to cover such additional costs.

The sluggish economy caused runners to choose fewer events to join, prioritising major races or cheaper ones, while some even quit running for other sports.