Chiang Mai, Thailand – The 5th edition of HOKA Chiang Mai Thailand by UTMB has concluded with resounding success, firmly establishing itself as a pinnacle event in the global trail running calendar. Formerly known as Doi Inthanon Thailand by UTMB, this year’s event unfolded at the newly inaugurated Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative Organization Park (PAO Park), a venue that offered a harmonious blend of Thai Lanna cultural heritage and world-class athletic competition.
Welcoming 6,900 runners from 77 territories, the event achieved a record-breaking 25% increase in participation compared to its previous edition. Competitors and spectators alike were treated to a unique setting where half of PAO Park showcased the vibrant Charming Flower Festival, while the other half hosted the trail running event, reflecting an exceptional marriage of culture and sport.
Economic Impact and Environmental Commitments
The 2024 edition brought significant economic benefits to Chiang Mai, generating over 1 billion Baht (28 million Euros) during its four-day duration. This boost encompassed local tourism, accommodation, dining, and retail, emphasizing the event’s role as a major economic driver for the region.
Aligned with Thailand’s Net Zero 2050 roadmap, the event implemented an ambitious sustainability program. Organizers successfully used 100% biodegradable single-use containers while avoiding non-recyclable materials entirely. This environmentally conscious approach marks a milestone on the event’s journey toward becoming fully carbon neutral, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in sustainable sports event management.
Asia-Pacific Collaboration
As the Asia-Pacific Major of the UTMB World Series for the third consecutive year, the event hosted the second annual Trail Running Outlook seminar. This gathering of race directors from across Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, South Korea, Vietnam, and China, provided a platform for exchanging insights and strategies for organizing large-scale trail events. The discussions highlighted the growing prominence of trail running in the region and underscored the event’s role as a hub for international collaboration.
Highlight Races and Winners
The event featured five race categories: TRANS-INT 160, ELEPHANT 100, HMONG 50, SUTHEP 20, and CHEDI 10. Each race offered a distinct blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and challenging terrain, showcasing Thailand’s rich landscapes and cultural heritage.
TRANS-INT 160
The 100-mile race took runners on a breathtaking journey from the foothills of Doi Inthanon National Park to its summit, traversing three national parks and iconic landmarks like Sirithan Waterfall, hill tribe villages, and Loha Prasat Sri Mueang Pong.
- In the women’s category, Antonina Iushina (Russia) claimed victory with a time of 24 hours, 23 minutes, and 52 seconds.
- The men’s category saw a dominant performance from China. Canhua Luo (China) finished first in 20 hours, 25 minutes, and 33 seconds.
ELEPHANT 100
This 100-km loop race began and ended at PAO Park, taking runners through Doi Suthep-Pui National Park and the renowned Mae Sa Elephant Camp, an iconic conservation site that embodies Thailand’s cultural and environmental commitment.
- Hui Bai (China) triumphed in the men’s category, while Ekaterina Mityaeva (Russia) emerged victorious in the women’s category, finishing in 11 hours, 30 minutes, and 45 seconds.
HMONG 50
The 50-km race offered a trail through Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, immersing runners in local hill tribe traditions. Highlights included a vibrant passage through the Hmong market, providing cultural depth to the race experience.
- Rui Ueda (Japan), a legendary trail runner, secured first place in the men’s category with a remarkable time of 4 hours, 21 minutes, and 25 seconds.
- Vietnam’s Hau Ha Thi led the women’s category, completing the race in 5 hours, 8 minutes, and 31 seconds.
A Celebration of Culture and Community
Beyond the athletic spectacle, the event celebrated Thai culture and community spirit. The Charming Flower Festival at PAO Park transformed the venue into a visual masterpiece, with hundreds of floral species in bloom, drawing local and international visitors alike.
The warm hospitality of the Chiang Mai community added to the event’s charm, with local authorities highlighting its significance in the city’s annual event calendar. The President of the Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative Organization praised the event, noting its ability to unite diverse cultures and showcase the region’s natural and cultural assets.
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The success of the 5th HOKA Chiang Mai Thailand by UTMB underscores its position as a premier event that transcends sports, blending athletic excellence, cultural celebration, and sustainability.
Organizers have already set their sights on elevating the event further for its next edition, promising enhanced experiences for participants, spectators, and the local community. As trail running continues to grow in popularity, events like this play a vital role in fostering global unity and promoting environmental stewardship.
