Every year in June, the Phnom Penh International Half Marathon – one of Cambodia’s largest running events – takes place in front of the Royal Palace of Cambodia as participants run throughout the capital alongside the Mekong River. This year, the 10th annual half marathon will occur on 18 June 2022, after a two-year hiatus from the pandemic.
Origins
In addition to celebrating Queen Norodom Monineath Sihanouk’s birthday, the running event also commemorates Olympic Day and World Environment Day. The event hosts include the Marathon Committee of Cambodia Events Organizer, the Ministry of Tourism, and the National Olympic Committee. Aside from the Phnom Penh event, they also handle the popular Angkor Wat International Marathon in Siem Reap.
Notable sponsors for 2022 include E-GetS, Decathlon, Berocca, Foreign Trade Bank of Cambodia, and Sunrise Japan Hospital Phnom Penh. Like in prior years, money raised from the Phnom Penh Half Marathon will be donated to Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital.
Race Details
Local and foreign participants can register for three different distances. The 21 km (13.1 mi) race is open for ages 16 and older. The 10 km (6.2 mi) race is open for ages 13 and older. Lastly, the 3 km (1.9 mi) fun run is open for all ages. A separate registration and pricing fee exists for local and foreign participants. The registration deadline ends on 9 May 2022.
According to the race schedule on the Cambodia Events Organizer site, the half marathon will start at 5:45 AM with a time limit of 4 hours. Meanwhile, the 10 km race will start at 6:00 AM with a time limit of 2 hours. Lastly, the 3 km fun run will start at 6:10 AM with a time limit of 45 minutes. Upon completion, participants of the half marathon and 10 km races will receive finisher medals.
While some roads will be blocked off for participants and spectators, the Cambodia Events Organizer still urges people to remain cautious and considerate of the traffic and locals. Water stations will be set up every 2 km. In addition, refreshments, including bananas and energy drinks, will also be offered along the course. Medical and first-aid posts will also remain on standby for those requiring medical attention.
Spectators Guide for the Phnom Penh Half Marathon
For spectators who wish to cheer on the Phnom Penh Half Marathon participants, many can view from the Royal Palace as the event starts and ends there. However, several other key points exist along the Phnom Penh riverside of Preah Sisowath Quay, such as the rooftop restaurant of Ohana Phnom Penh Palace Hotel, which offers a birds-eye view of the event.
For additional event details, visit the Cambodia Events Organizer website.
