Fun on the run, but get up early!

Thousands of runners are expected to complete the 42.5-kilometre race, which starts and finishes at the Pattaya Beach Road Soi 4.  lighthouse of the Rescue Station.

"Expect a crowd, both of competitors and spectators," says a Pattaya Tourism Development spokesman. "This event has gained more popularity each year because people combine it with their desire to travel."

Pattaya beach, two hours away from Bangkok by road, has been a thriving tourist spot for decades, even without factoring in the town's notorious nightlife.

"Bring you own running shoes on Sunday morning if you want to race for the trophy or just for fun," the spokesman advises last-minute entrants.

The race is in five categories - marathon, wheelchair marathon, half marathon (21.1km), quarter marathon and the student run.

Those who wish to join the race can visit the website www.pattaya-marathon.com. The application fee is Bt500 per person for the marathon, if apply before July8, and Bt700 between July8-14. Bt500 for the half marathon and Bt300 for the quarter marathon.

The competitors will run north along the beach front and turn right on to the local road beside Sukhumvit highway. They will continue south and turn right to Jomtien beach. The finishing line will be on the same Beach Road in front of soi 4.

"The best place to watch the Pattaya Marathon is between Jomtien Beach and the lighthouse," says the local tourism official. "Here, you will see the marathon runners show up around 9 or 10am."

Visit www.pattaya-marathon.com, or call Pattaya Tourist Information at (038) 253127-30 for more details.