BURIRAM, THAILAND – The 2026 Buriram Marathon, celebrating its 10th edition, firmly established itself as a leading night race in Southeast Asia and turned the city into a continuous sports arena.
Record participation at anniversary race
The anniversary event attracted 35,789 participants from Thailand and abroad. More than 7,000 volunteers supported the runners, while over 70,000 spectators lined the course throughout the night. The race started at the Chang International Circuit and finished in the nearby Chang Arena, creating a festival-like atmosphere between the two venues.
Official backing and international status
The opening ceremony and start were led by Piya Pijnam, governor of Buriram, together with Newin Chidchob, chairman of the Chang International Circuit, alongside representatives from the public and private sectors. This official presence underscored the national importance of the event. The race was held under the World Athletics Road Race Label, allowing recorded times to be used for qualification at international competitions and providing a key incentive for performance-oriented runners in the region.
Four certified race distances
The event offered four officially measured distances: marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.1 km), mini-marathon (10 km) and a fun run (4.554 km). Organisers reported strong participation in all categories. Together, the certified distances and high turnout reinforced Buriram’s position on the regional running calendar.
International field dominates men’s marathon
In the open men’s marathon, Barnabas Kiplimo of Kenya won in 2:21:16. Defending champion Wondwesen Damte of Ethiopia took second place in 2:22:52, followed by Kenyan runner Julius Manas in 2:27:34. Thailand’s long-distance specialist Ton–Sanchai Namket finished in 2:29:24, securing the national title once again.
National record for Thai marathon star
With his performance, Ton–Sanchai Namket claimed the King’s Trophy of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati for the seventh time. This marked a record in the history of the Buriram Marathon. His repeated success highlighted the race’s role in promoting elite Thai distance running.
Breakthrough in women’s race
In the women’s marathon, Marta Birehan from Ethiopia took victory in 2:51:01. Arongkorn Wongsa finished second in 2:53:28 and was, for the first time, the top runner from the host country. Long-time national standout Linda Jantachit, a six-time former Thai champion, placed third in 3:01:16.
Buriram consolidates its sports hub role
Organisers stressed that the marathon further strengthened Buriram’s reputation as a sporting hub.
“The race combines international standards with strong participation from the local community.”
said the organising committee, highlighting the blend of global certification and local engagement. They confirmed that future editions were also planned to be held under the World Athletics certificate.
Focus on Thai athletes and global pathways
According to the organisers, the focus would remain on specifically supporting Thai runners. At the same time, the event aimed to secure its role as a qualification platform for global competitions. With this strategy, the Buriram Marathon was set to remain a key date in the Southeast Asian road running calendar.