It's that time again: the time for the annual marathon on Koh Phangan, better known as the Full Moon Marathon, has come this weekend. The Full Moon Marathon of the 20.-21.07.2013 starts as in the years before in Thongsala at the harbor. Anyone can take part; there will be a marathon, a half marathon and a “fun run”.
Full Moon Marathon as a sign of change?
The tourism organization strives to bring regular sporting events to Koh Phangan. In addition to the Full Moon Marathon is also the Phangan Breeze Kiteboarding Competition to mention. Such events should help Koh Phangan away from the reputation as the destination of Full Moon Party to make it better known and to attract other tourists. The marathon certainly also aims to positively influence the image associated with the Full Moon Party. Unfortunately, the “Koh Phangan Tourism Association” is limited to organizing these events, while the marketing of the events can be described as mixed. Posters for the Full Moon Marathon For example, only showed up on the island two days before the run. Of course, as is usual in Thailand, it is a chaotic, colorful poster. Since this event is intended to address locals and tourists alike, the posters were foresighted ... written in Thai! (Only the name of the event is printed in English, but significantly smaller than the rest of the content of the poster). While at least one Facebook event was created last year, online marketing seems to be completely dispensed with in 2013. Likewise, none of the alternative advertising measures were taken. For example, a car with loudspeakers that drives across the island and announces events is very common. This possibility is often used in Muay Thai fights, for example. In general, the organization of this event was a bit unfortunate.
Thus, probably only residents and expats will participate in this event again, which is a pity, it is a great event, which enhances Koh Phangan as a destination!
