Climbing the Banyan Tree

You'll need to take serious steps if you want to win Banyan Tree's Vertical Marathon - 1,093 steps to be precise. The annual, knee-weakening race is scheduled to kick off next Sunday at the hotel's lobby in Sathorn Road.

Last year's race drew thousands of fitness enthusiasts, good-will runners and marathon racers alike to Banyan Tree, the winner making the finish line on the 61st floor in six minutes and nine seconds.

You can register on site at 6am for Bt350 per entrant. Included in that price are a T-shirt and a voucher for refreshment and a light meal. The winners will receive trophies from HRH Princess Somsavali, air tickets with accommodation, and more. Proceeds from the event will go to help HIV-positive children under the care of the Thai Red Cross. For more information, call (02) 679 1200 or visit www.banyantree.com.