Laguna Phuket Triathlon kicks off this Sunday
German Michael Raelert and Swiss Simone Braendli are both back to defend their titles in the 2016 Laguna Phuket Triathlon on Sunday, November 20, with triathletes pitted against one another in the gruelling race which comprises 1.8km swim, 50km bike and 12km run.
Aside from Raelert and Braendli, who captured the previous year’s men’s and women’s crowns, Italians Massimo Cigana and Alberto Casadei, who jointly made history at 2014 Laguna Phuket Triathlon when they crossed the finish line as one and gave LPT its first dual champions. Cigana is also LPT’s first four-time winner (2007, 2010, 2011 and 2014) and Czech Radka Vodickova, who won the women’s field in 2009, 2011 and 2012.
Pre-race press conference was held on Saturday, with Phuket Vice Governor Ms Siwaporn Chuasawat presiding. Also attending in the meeting as guests of honours were TAT Governor Mr Yuthasak Supasorn, Mr Ravi Chandra, Managing Director of Laguna Phuket, the race organisers, Mr Suvadhana Sibunruang, Director of Brand and Advertising Department, Thai Airways PLC, and Mr Antiwar Kongmalai or Toon Bodyslam, Thailand’s number one rock star who is also participating in the race this year.
In her preparation for the Sunday’s race, the last year’s winner Braendli said in the press conference, “I’ve heard that some professional triathletes said that Laguna Phuket Triathon is one of the race courses they have to compete once in their life, so i decided to compete in this tournament last year. It was my first time in Phuket. Actually, I didn’t expect to win but i did. Apart from a wonderful surrounding and a challenging course, all volunteers and local people here are very nice and friendly that I can find nowhere else like here. I look forward to the Sunday’s race.
Raelert, who won the men’s title last year, said, “All pro triathletes want to compete in professional triathlons and the Laguna Phuket Triathlon might be one. As far as I’m concerned, it is one of the best triathlons I’ve ever competed.”
Czech Vodickova, who won three out of six she had competed here in Phuket in the women’s field, said, “I love coming back here every year. I feel like it is my Christmas time and I just need to come back home. I also have a chance to meet other athletes.”
Meanwhile, Mr Ravi Chandra, Managing Director of Laguna Phuket, expressed his satisfaction over the Laguna Phuket Triathlon has gaining increasing popularity each year.
“This year, we will see around 1,100 athletes from more than 40 countries participate in the individual and team relay categories as well as the 6K Fun Run at our race this Sunday. This is more than the previously anticipated number of 1,000 athletes. What I find inspiring is that we have seen more number of Thai athletes participating in our race each year, highlighting its growing popularity,” said Mr. Ravi Chandran.
“We have recognized the high potential in Thailand’s sport tourism segment for years now. From traditional beach holidays, new generation travel makers are keen to go on sport-related vacations where they can participate in marathon, bike, duathlon and triathlon events at various tourist locations nationwide. As Asia’s longest standing triathlon race which is organised in such beautiful setting, Laguna Phuket integrated resort is certainly one of the most desirable sport tourism destinations,” he added.
“Toon Bodyslam” said, “From my first marathon to triathlon races, I am impressed by this beautiful resort and its professional event organising standards. Laguna Phuket and I share similar beliefs in promoting healthy lifestyle and supporting charitable causes.”
Members of the press and the conference’s audiences were in for a treat when Laguna Phuket unveiled its official Laguna Phuket Triathlon’s mascot “Laguna.” Adorning baby elephant costume, Laguna makes his appearance at this year’s race and will be ready for photo opportunity at all time.
During the Triathlon weekend, all the pros will be staying within the Laguna Phuket resort complex to train and participate in various sport and social functions.
On top of the triathlon experience, athletes and their companions can enjoy a host of world-class services and facilities available at Laguna Phuket; from award-wining 18-hole golf course, XANA beach club, Laguna Tours and excursions, Canal Shopping Village to world-renowned Banyan Tree Spa and Angsana Spas. Athletes can also discover Laguna Phuket as an ideal second home.
