Charity marathon

Fitness enthusiasts, charity workers and members of the public will be returning to Banyan Tree Bangkok on September 18 for the 7th Vertical Marathon. The finishing point for the marathon is the hotel's former helipad that now serves as the Vertigo restaurant, on the 61st floor.

Participants will be charged a 300-baht registration fee for which they receive a race T-shirt and lunch box. Winners in the men's and women's divisions will be contesting for the HRH Princess Soamsawali Trophy, while winners in other categories stand to win prizes ranging from round-trip business class air tickets to Singapore and Hong Kong, luxurious accommodation and gift vouchers.

The race involves climbing 1,093 steps of the hotel to the 61st floor and is open to participants of all ages. The fastest time recorded so far is 5.58 minutes and stands in the name of Mr Boonchoo Jandacha.

Past participants in the race include chairman of the Caring Hearts for Aids Foundation, Mr Saisom Wongsasukul; star couple Somchai and Meria Khemklat, and super model Methinee Kingpayom.

Proceeds from the event will go to the HIV Formula Feeding Fund under the royal patronage of HRH Princess Soamsawali. Last year the event raised 350,000 baht. The main sponsors this year are Lehman Brothers (Thailand), Thai Pure Drinks, Finnair, Laguna Resorts & Hotels and BNH Hospital.


For further information, call 02-679-1200 or visit www.banyantree.com/bangkok/vertical_marathon.htm.
Bangkok Post September 2005 www.bangkokpost.com