photo credit: Laguna Phuket Marathon Facebook
The 19th edition of the Laguna Phuket Marathon wrapped up another high-energy weekend of 14-15 June of sport and sunshine, drawing over 7,000 runners from 71 countries to one of Asia’s most scenic race destinations. Known for its coastal charm and seamless organisation, the event once again delivered a memorable mix of world-class racing and community spirit.
Run Sunset, Run Sunrise
The race followed its signature “Sunset & Sunrise” format across two days. Saturday evening hosted the 2 km Kids Run, 5 km Fun Run, and 10 km Mini Marathon, drawing families and first-timers into the action. Sunday morning’s “Sunrise” races featured the Half Marathon (21.1 km), Full Marathon (42.195 km), and Marathon Relay, starting at 4:00 am to beat the tropical heat.
The route took runners through a mix of local villages, rubber plantations, beach stretches, and quiet backroads – with shaded palm lanes and ocean breezes offering some relief from the heat.
2025 Winners and Highlights
In the Full Marathon (Men), Phuket local Apichai Phujit retained his crown with a time of 2:51:48, followed by Thailand’s Puriphat Gimgiew (2:56:27) and Japan’s Yosuke Shigei (3:00:25). In the Women’s Full Marathon, Japan’s Mayumi Watanabe led the field with 3:27:05, ahead of Thailand’s Yaowapa Hoisungwarn (3:30:05) and Nozomi Kawasaki (3:35:01).
Kenya’s Bernard Mungai Kirogoi took the Men’s Half Marathon title in 1:18:30, narrowly edging out Japan’s Masayuki Abe (1:18:56) and Thailand’s Anuwat Bunmak (1:22:08). In the Women’s Half Marathon, Japan’s Chiaki Morikawa triumphed in 1:23:46, followed by Australia’s Hayley Waterson (1:26:11).
Veteran runners also turned heads, including several finishers in their 70s – proving that endurance knows no age limit.
Race Day Atmosphere
From the festive pasta party to the post-run recovery zone, runners were well-supported. The race village at Laguna Grove featured an expo, gear stalls, and massage tents. On-course support included regular hydration stations, pace teams, and enthusiastic local volunteers.
The event also continued to support local initiatives through the Laguna Phuket Foundation, reinforcing its dual role as a race and a platform for positive community impact.
Next Up: 20th Anniversary in 2026
The Laguna Phuket Marathon celebrates its 20th edition next year, set for 13-14 June 2026. Organisers promise special commemorative touches and a festive atmosphere worthy of the milestone. If this year’s edition was anything to go by, 2026 will be one for the books.
