Running a road race is not exactly my thing. But I'm curious and willing to try anything new (well, except bungy jumping or serpent curry). On Saturday, October 20th, 2012 more than 5,000 runners joined the 15th Amari Watergate and BMW Thailand Charity Midnight Run. It's the only race in Bangkok held at night which is one appealing factor to many. And I didn't have to pay to run. A friend who works for a major sponsor of the race, Bangkok Hospital, used her professional connection to sort that out for me. Thank you Loreyne.
We arrived at the assembly point about two hours before midnight, and was it a lot of fun. I was beginning to wonder whether I was running or simply socializing through the chatter, the games, and the photo opp. A quick sprint down Google lane shows the causes that would benefit from the race - Baht for a Better Life Project, Chalerm Prakiat in Lampoon and Baan Gerda in Lopburi. The latter two are schools with a similar purpose - education of children whose HIV-infected parents have passed away.
There were family teams in the race. Children were excited to run. Soon they rode on ambulances when they got tired.
These runners do not know each other; not even speak the same language. I loved observing them being friendly and just having a great time.
Pre-run and awarding ceremonies were held on this stage at the Amari Watergate premises. The post-race party at Henry J. Beans Bar and Grill reportedly lasted til early Sunday morning.
12km and 6km distances. I ran about an eighth of 1km, deviated to the right by the former World Trade and walked the rest to the sky train station. I was working Sunday at 8 a.m.
I learned a few things. Here's hoping I was excused.
There were family teams in the race. Children were excited to run. Soon they rode on ambulances when they got tired.
These runners do not know each other; not even speak the same language. I loved observing them being friendly and just having a great time.
Pre-run and awarding ceremonies were held on this stage at the Amari Watergate premises. The post-race party at Henry J. Beans Bar and Grill reportedly lasted til early Sunday morning.
12km and 6km distances. I ran about an eighth of 1km, deviated to the right by the former World Trade and walked the rest to the sky train station. I was working Sunday at 8 a.m.
I learned a few things. Here's hoping I was excused.
Sounds like you had a lot of fun. I hope to run in a night face someday myself. This was a nice read.
ReplyDeleteThanks Brad. Hope you get to run in a night race soon.
DeleteI'd add this on the list of races I'd like to join in Bangkok if I ever end up racing in Bangkok.
ReplyDeleteFranc, you may want to mark your social/travel calendar - the next midnight run in Bangkok will be on Saturday, 19th October 2013. That's according to Amari Watergate GM Pierre-Andre Pelletier.
DeleteA midnight run is a welcome change from the norm. I've joined a run just once, and I did enjoy it immensely.
ReplyDeletewow nice. really seem it was such a fun run. hope to experience midnight run also someday :-)
ReplyDeleteSarap! I haven't joined midnight runs... I don't think I can keep up with the hype. hihih...
ReplyDeleteCertainly sounds like a lot of fun. Don't think I could run in the dark as I would probably end up tripping up.
ReplyDeleteWonderful shots from the event.
ReplyDeleteFun photos and great post for 'R' for AbC ~ (A Creative Harbor) ^_^
ReplyDeleteI'm afraid I'm not very good at running races but bravo to those who can.
ReplyDeletebroadening the horizons
ReplyDeleteexactly Roger :) I'm glad you spotted that.
DeleteLooks like you had loads of fun!
ReplyDeleteLeslie
abcw team
Running with friends is fun!
ReplyDeleteMy first time to join ABC Wednesday.
Mae
I see a lot of running today ! Very sportive !
ReplyDeleteGattina
ABC Team
It's a romantic notion to run at midnight. You captured a wonderful moment in that 4th photograph. I ran two marathons (both many years ago). What I remember most is the camaraderie.
ReplyDelete