The Laguna Phuket Triathlon, Southeast Asia’s longest-running final competition, concluded on November 19, 2023, at the integrated resort destination of Laguna Phuket on Phuket Island, Thailand. With over 1,000 triathletes representing 30 countries, the event fostered a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere, showcasing Phuket as a world-class sports event destination. Once again, it highlighted the allure of organizing top-tier sports events in picturesque Phuket, demonstrating to the world the island’s charm and suitability for such prestigious competitions.
The competition commenced at 6.30am with the start of the Triathlon, featuring men’s and women’s Pros. Subsequently, participants in the sprint triathlon and duathlon began their races.
Triathlon competitors faced challenging stages, conquering a 1.8-kilometre swim in the Andaman Sea and lagoon, a rigorous 55-kilometre cycling route navigating mountain trails, and a demanding 12-kilometre run within Laguna Phuket. All races concluded at Laguna Grove, with the cut-off for each distance set at approximately 12.30pm.
In the men’s category this year, Max Stapley, the British triathlete, marked his debut in the Laguna Phuket Triathlon and emerged victorious. He claimed the top spot by completing the race with an impressive time of 2 hours, 32 minutes, and 53 seconds. Coming in second was Max Studer from Switzerland, finishing in 2 hours, 34 minutes, and 09 seconds, while the third-place finish went to Anthony Costes from France, recording a time of 2 hours, 35 minutes, and 32 seconds.
In the women’s division, the title of champion was claimed by Kate Waugn from the United Kingdom, securing victory in the Laguna Phuket Triathlon. She completed the challenging course in 2 hours, 46 minutes, and 04 seconds. Julie Derron from Switzerland claimed second position, finishing the race in 2 hours, 47 minutes, and 45 seconds, while third was secured by Sophie Malowiecki from Australia, posting a time of 2 hours, 52 minutes, and 12 seconds.
Amidst a strong representation by Thai triathletes in this year’s competition, Thanadol Wisarutsin, an 18-year-old from the Thai national team and the youngest competitor, secured the Thai championship with an impressive time of 2 hours, 51 minutes, and 51 seconds. Meanwhile, 11-time Thai champion Jaray Jearanai completed the race in an impressive 2 hours, 53 minutes, and 33 seconds. Another noteworthy participant was Tao-Somchai Khemglad, a favorite from the teenage era in the ’90s, who made his debut in the Laguna Phuket Triathlon and impressively conquered the challenge. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone, fulfilling his dream of participating in a premier global triathlon program.
Mr. Paul Wilson, Vice President and Deputy Managing Director of Laguna Phuket said, “We extend our congratulations to the triumphant triathletes of this year’s championship. Our heartfelt thanks goes to all participants, across various sectors, for their dedicated contributions that culminated in the success of the 29th Laguna Phuket Triathlon, showcasing a splendid victory for Phuket, Thailand. This achievement mirrors the unity and spirit of community efforts, paving the way for the continued growth and success of the Laguna Phuket Triathlon in the years ahead. We invite everyone to anticipate its return, promising that its 30th year will undoubtedly be grander than ever.”
The “Laguna Phuket Triathlon” is renowned worldwide as Southeast Asia’s longest running and most successful triathlon event. Over the years, it has attracted a multitude of highly skilled triathletes from various corners of the globe. This year, The Laguna Phuket Triathlon is ready for its 29th edition, thanks to pivotal collaborations with several national heavyweights. These include Phuket Province, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Sports Authority of Thailand under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, and Thai Airways, among others.
