PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya Marathon 2026 got underway on September 26 with a large field of Thai and international runners taking to the streets despite rain across the city. The opening day started outside Terminal 21 Pattaya, where Chonburi Governor Naris Niramaiwong and Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet joined city officials, government agencies, private-sector partners and event sponsors for the opening ceremony. The first day featured the 10-kilometre race, a 4.5-kilometre wheelchair event and a 4.5-kilometre Fun Run. Runners filled the starting area and city streets despite the wet conditions, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the event.
Mayor Poramet welcomed runners from Thailand and overseas and thanked the organizations involved in staging the marathon. He said the event promotes exercise while supporting sports tourism and contributes to the city’s economy and tourism activity.
Following the opening ceremony, Governor Naris and Mayor Poramet joined runners in the 4.5-kilometre race, running alongside participants and creating a relaxed atmosphere of public participation and encouragement. After the races, Pattaya city executives presented awards to winners in the various categories, congratulating the participants and recognizing their achievements.
The marathon continues on September 27 with the 21-kilometre Half Marathon and the 42.195-kilometre Full Marathon. Thai and international runners are expected to return to the streets for the second day of competition, adding another major sporting event to Pattaya’s calendar. The two-day Pattaya Marathon 2026 is part of Pattaya’s efforts to promote the city as a Sport City and an international destination for sports tourism.
