With just over two weeks to go before the 11th Angkor international marathon, more Chinese running enthusiasts have been posting videos online expressing their intention to compete in Cambodia and inviting fellow runners to Siem Reap to experience Angkor’s distinctive ancient monuments while running.
Many Chinese runners said in their videos that the Angkor international marathon was more than a sporting event: it offered an experience combining history, culture and natural scenery. During the race, participants could see the historic character of the Angkor World Heritage site at close range and experience Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.
Several runners also shared their expectations. Some hoped to meet running enthusiasts from around the world through the event; others said the Angkor international marathon had long been an important event on their plans and that they looked forward to experiencing its combination of sporting competition and cultural exchange.
沃忠蓝, secretary-general of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia, said promotional videos for the race were circulating widely on several Chinese online platforms, attracting more Chinese runners’ attention and registrations. This would help raise the marathon’s international profile and support tourism and related industries in Siem Reap province.
The 11th Angkor international marathon is scheduled for August 2 in Siem Reap province, featuring four events: the 42 km full marathon, 21 km half marathon, 10 km and 3 km races. Organisers expect 5,000–6,000 participants this year, with the number of Chinese runners expected to grow further.
