Press conference for 2025 IAU 100 KM Asia & Oceania Championships

Bangkok, August 7, 2025 – At 2:00 p.m., Mr. Jakrapol Tangsuthitham, Assistant Minister of Tourism and Sports and Ministry Spokesperson, presided over a press conference to announce the IAU 100 KM Asia & Oceania Championships 2025. The event took place at the Rattanakosin Room, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (Sao Ching Cha), attended by key figures including Assoc. Prof. Chatchart Sittipun, Governor of Bangkok; Maj. Gen. Surapong Ariyamongkol, Vice President and Secretary-General of the Athletics Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage; Deputy Police Captain Dr. Manas Nonuch, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC); Mr. Nantapol Thongnilpan, Director of the Professional Sports Development Division representing the Sports Authority of Thailand; along with representatives from relevant agencies and the media.

The event aims to promote ultramarathon sports at both continental and national levels, positioning Thailand as a hub for health-focused sports in Asia under the government’s “Amazing Thailand 2025” policy. It also serves as a stepping stone for Thailand to bid for hosting the IAU 100 KM World Championships in the future. The IAU 100 KM Asia & Oceania Championships 2025 will be held at Wachirabenchathat park (Rot Fai Park) on November 22-23, 2025.

The competition categories include:

• IAU 100 KM Asia & Oceania Championships (Men/Women)  
• Thailand Championships: 100 KM and 24-Hour races (Men/Women)  
• Open Race: 100 KM, 50 KM, 24-Hour, 12-Hour, and 6-Hour races  

Mr. Jakrapol highlighted that this marks Thailand’s historic first as the official host of a continental ultramarathon championship certified by the International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU). The event showcases Thailand’s readiness to host global competitions, supported by robust infrastructure, safety measures, medical systems, and event management.

Aligned with the government’s “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025” initiative, the championship leverages sports to promote Thailand’s soft power. It also positions the country as a global sports event hub. A successful event could pave the way for Thailand to bid for the IAU 100 KM World Championships in the future.

Mr. Jakrapol expressed gratitude to the Athletics Association of Thailand, IAU, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and all stakeholders for their collaboration. He invited Thais to join as gracious hosts in welcoming athletes from across the region, aiming to establish Bangkok as a “world-class running city.” He concluded with confidence that the event will be a success and a source of pride for all Thais.

Jacek Bedkowski

IAU Director of Communication