Kulen Mountain Trek-Run Returns
-
By:
- Romdoul Chetra
October 11, 2024 , 11:55 AM
SIEM REAP – The Kulen Mountain Trek-Run makes its return for a third season to Siem Reap province on October 27. The event aims to promote environmental awareness and tourism on Kulen mountain.
Yann Phanith, the event organizer, said the event allows participants to experience mountain running, nature appreciation and planting trees.
“We need to create such fun events on Kulen Mountain as it is a renowned tourist attraction. Back then, I got some questions from my foreign friends on where they should visit beyond the temples,” Phanith said.
“Thus, I believe this event will promote the province’s natural and cultural tourist attractions. Additionally, each participant will be able to plant a tree after completing their run, with the local authorities preparing designated planting areas.
“Participants are not allowed to use plastics. Paper cups will be provided for drinking water.”
Phanith said the event welcomes not only professional runners but is accessible to everyone. They can also bring dogs to run with them.
“There are three distance options to choose from, 8km,15km and 25km. The organizing team has carefully planned the routes to ensure the safety of all runners,” Phanith said.
“Taking part in this event not only fosters environmental awareness among runners, yet also encourages others to engage in such environmental activities.”
All the participants gather at Phnom Kulen National Park, Banteay Srei district in Siem Reap province. This location also provides an opportunity to support local communities, as they can show their products to participants at the venue.
“Gigo World is the first company to introduce this running event on Kulen mountain. A portion of the budget from the participant registration will be donated to Angkor Hospital for Children,” Phanith said.
“I hope to see many participants registering. It is a mountainous area so ensuring the safety of participants is the most important.
“I think 300 to 500 participants is a manageable number. However, should the event attract more participants in the future, the team will strive harder to enhance safety measures.”
Phanith said there is an ambition to organize it regularly to promote social work.
The Kulen Mountain Trek-Run was held in 2019 and 2023. It is approved by the Ministry of Environment and local authorities, with support from partners.
Originally written in Khmer for ThmeyThmey, this story was translated by Rin Ousa for Cambodianess.