Bangkok Airways Boutique Series 2024 series kicked off the first of its three half-marathon series in Koh Samui on 23 June 2024. This would be followed by events in Lanna on 25 Aug and Sukothai on 22 Sep.

The Bangkok Airways Koh Samui Half Marathon was first held in 2016. It was initiated by Bangkok Airways as part of their wider effort to promote sports tourism in Thailand, particularly on the picturesque island of Koh Samui.

Over the years, this has grown in popularity, attracting participants from around the world. It includes various race categories such as the half marathon (21.1 km), 10 km run, and a 5 km fun run, making it accessible to runners of different skill levels. However, keeping to the boutique theme, participant numbers are limited to 2,000 only.

It also incorporates local culture, with traditional performances and local food stalls, giving participants a taste of the island’s unique heritage. In recent years, the marathon has also focused on sustainability, implementing eco-friendly practices such as reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental awareness among participants and spectators.

Expo Day
Participants picked up their race bibs and goodie bag at Phru Chaweng Public Park, overlooking Chaweng Lake. This is very much in the middle of town, accessible and close to Central Samui shopping mall.

Half-Marathon Course
The half-marathon was flagged off from Phru Chaweng Public Park at 4:30am local time. It had a generous 4-hour cutoff time limit, with 2 cut-off points, the first on KM12 at 6:45am and the second on the finish line at 08.30 am.

The run route was around Koh Samui, heading to the cape of Laem Cheing Mon, continuing to Wat Ban Laem, Bang Rak Pier, before joining the 10KM route in front of BIG C Samui, and looping back to the finish line.

Other than the start and finish areas, the route was anything but flat. There were lots of upslopes and downslopes throughout. In the early morning, some stretches were dark, but marshalls and guide lights were positioned strategically on the course to ensure a safe race.

5KM Course
This family-friendly course took place one loop around the Phru Chaweng Public Park. This fun run category started at 6am – that is, after sunrise – and attracted lots of children too.

Singapore Contingent
Valerie Tan from Superhero Runners, 2nd in age category, 10KM
Valentina Schott from Singapore Runners Club, 2nd in age category, 21KM

Tourist Attractions
Running aside, there lots of accesible places to explore within Koh Samui in half-a-da.
These include:

• Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
  Located on Koh Faan, the Big Buddha Temple features a 12-meter tall golden Buddha statue that offers panoramic views of the island. Built in 1972, it is a prominent spiritual site for Buddhists and a popular tourist attraction, symbolizing enlightenment and peace. Visitors can explore the temple’s dragon-adorned steps, smaller shrines, and meditation areas.
• Prai Lam Temple (Wat Plai Laem)
  Wat Plai Laem, located in the northeast of Koh Samui, is an ornate temple complex featuring an 18-arm statue of Guanyin and a large white Buddha. It showcases Thai and Chinese architectural influences and serves as a spiritual site for Buddhists seeking blessings and solace. The temple is surrounded by a lake filled with fish, adding to its serene ambiance.
• Grandfather Rock (Hin Ta) and Grandmother Rock (Hin Yai)
  Located along Lamai Beach, these natural rock formations resemble male and female genitalia and are famous for their unique shapes. According to legend, they represent the enduring love of an elderly couple shipwrecked in the area. The site offers beautiful coastal views and is a popular spot for photography and exploration.
• Wat Phra Yai
  Known locally as Wat Phra Yai, this temple is home to the iconic Big Buddha statue and serves as a significant spiritual center on the island. It hosts various Buddhist ceremonies and offers visitors a chance to experience the island’s cultural heritage. The temple’s hilltop location provides breathtaking views of Koh Samui.
• Guan Yu Shrine
  Located in the Hua Thanon area, the Guan Yu Shrine is dedicated to the legendary Chinese general Guan Yu, featuring a 16-meter tall statue. It serves as a cultural center for Koh Samui’s Chinese-Thai community, offering a place of worship and learning about Guan Yu’s historical significance. The shrine’s traditional Chinese architecture adds to its cultural charm.
• Sunset at Nathon Beach
  Nathon Beach, on the island’s western coast, is known for its stunning sunsets and tranquil atmosphere. As Koh Samui’s main port town, Nathon offers a glimpse into the local way of life with less tourist congestion. Visitors can enjoy the serene beach, local seafood restaurants, and mesmerizing sunset views over the Gulf of Thailand.

And also, don’t forget to eat at Khao Hom, a local Thai restaurant that has been awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand!