This is actually a more recent one which I did. To speak the truth, I wanted to write about this marathon fast because it was 2 months since I last got a podium race and it was really euphoric moment for me. This time was a lso a time where I got kind of bored about running. I have done only 27 marathons and the kick is coming in. I am wondering how those 100 marathoners or even 100 km and above ultra runners keep this number game going. The best is, some of them keep running the same place year after year. It really beats me what is their motivation. Lets discuss this later.
Hotel Aloha in the city centre was my choice this time. The rooms are very clean and comfy
At the hatyai marathon
The Race
Hat yai is an old town in the Southern part of Thailand. The town it self has many shopping food area, the cheap prices makes it a favourite for the locals and overseas travellers. This is especially so for the foodies which the place has to offer. The price itself is far better than that in Singapore where food are getting more and more expensive.
The starter tee and a cap with muscle rub for participants
The race starts off from the Jiranakorn Stadium which is not far from the city centre. The race also ends up at the same place. In between, the route mainly takes the participants through the major high way before making a U turn back and coming back onto the same high way and charge into the town again. The whole route is pretty straight forward, there are no windings and turnings. Although the signages are not every where, it is rather difficult for one to get lost in the route. The water points are pretty ample, but it does gets a little boring while running on the route.
The race pack collection is also at the stadium itself. The race pack consists of one tee shirt, a number bib and a heat rub ( packet). You can also register on the spot for shorter distances like 4km fun run , 10km and 21 km. The race is well liked and populated by the locals as well as Malaysians. There are also some Caucasians and Singaporeans coming to this race. Many of the strong Singapore runners come to this race because there is a high chance of podium here and they hope to try their luck here . Which I think is rather reasonable if you are thinking of getting something worth for your last burst before you retire from running.
The Hatyai International Marathon 2016( Race Route)
FINISHING THE RACE
The ending point is also the Start , Jiranakron Stadium
The ending has a lot of stores selling many goodies
The finisher pack is also rather luxurious. There is a packet or real chicken rice with EGG and also your finisher medal, tee shirt, bananas with isotonic drinks are strewn all around the place for you to take. So you need not worry that you have not enough hydration. The good thing is the race does not have over amount of subscribers and there are plenty of space for you to sit down and relax in the stadium. Whether it be in the fields or at the spectator seat. While over at the covered basket ball court, runners can get the chance to check their timing. This race has SO MANY prizes that for the Males overall 1-30 place all has something to bring home. Furthermore, each category there is a trophy for you to bring back too.
Another thing which I rather like about the race is the ample amount of space for your to run and also there are not too many people to squeeze with you and hog the start line. The whole race is carried out on relatively flat ground. This is one good thing which local Singapore race are having a lack of these days.
Another interesting thing to note about this race is the ” race expo” at the finishing in the stadium itself. To speak the truth, despite its al fresco style, they do not lack the number of “Brands” there : Nike, Reebok, Brooks, even UNDER ARMOUR, you name it they should have it. Flashy running and sports gear going at pasar malam price what more to ask! And There simply have so much food for all that I am even spoilt for choice. Fried bee hoon, western breakfast of eggs and sausages, unlimited free flow of fried rice and beverages to wash down all the goodies. I must say Malaysia races cannot fight with this one.
With good company cheap massages to relief those knots and pain after the race, what more can a runner ask for!