The 11th international half-marathon in Preah Sihanouk forms part of efforts to promote the province’s tourism worldwide and across Cambodia.
Governor Mang Sineth spoke at the event on the morning of March 22, 2026 at Ochheuteal Beach in Sihanoukville. More than 14,000 national and international athletes, young people and residents attended from across Cambodia and abroad.
The governor said the event demonstrated peace, safety and good social order in the province. He hoped it would give domestic and international audiences a clearer view of its infrastructure and potential in industry, commerce, tourism and agriculture. He described its beautiful coast as the “Rising Star in the Southwest”.
He said this year’s running route followed the coast. The half-marathon was one of several events planned by provincial leaders. For the approaching Khmer New Year, the administration would also organise traditional Khmer games for residents and tourists to enjoy.
Vath Chamroeun, secretary-general of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia, or NOCC, and a secretary of state at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, said the government had authorised NOCC to work with the province on an annual international running event. Its aim was to help protect the province’s coast, which he described as a member of the “World’s Most Beautiful Bays Club” and the “Rising Star in the Southwest”.
He said the province’s beautiful coast, appealing race distances and favourable conditions attracted runners from around the world. The event also supported tourism, a multipurpose economy and investment promotion.
The report described the sporting event as bringing peace, enjoyment and social stability. It was also organised as a charity fundraiser to support hospitals and children’s organisations in need.
The report called this year’s event a major success, with attendance breaking previous records and rising from 2,000–3,000 in earlier years to more than 10,000.
More than 14,000 people attended, including foreigners from over 40 countries, with 21-kilometre,10-kilometre, five-kilometre and three-kilometre distances.
Article: Pai Sokhim
Photos: Keo Dara, Teav Vichat
