Pristine white beaches

The race is unique, run on a beautiful long coastal road in Cambodia alongside what is known as one of the most beautiful bays in the world.

The event was created in 2012, after the Tsunami disasters in Asia, with the purpose of protecting the environment and appreciating nature. Runners will certainly enjoy the fresh sea air and the beautiful sunrise over the pristine white beaches alongside the course. They can get a feeling of oneness with the power of mother nature in the tranquil atmosphere of the early morning.

Sihanoukville (Kompong Som) is known as a city of casinos backed by Chinese investors but the local traditional businesses keep going as normal. These include local food stalls, restaurants along the beaches of Ocheauteal, independent beach enterprises such as boat trips to famous islands nearby for scuba diving or snorkelling, etc.

Sihanoukville is 230km from Phnom Penh and directly connected to the capital by a modern highway. Travellers take around two and a half hours to get between the two cities.

The race has attracted some fast runners who return each year, such as Ms Ota Natsuko from Japan who won the 21K with a time of 1:52:27 in 2023. In 2024 she reached the finish line in 1:39:06 – again as the first female finisher. The asphalt roads have some hilly sections but these present just a small challenge. The first Cambodian runner in 2024 was Ouk Rohit, who finished the race in a time of 1:15:26. This result is appreciated and has inspired many local runners to train hard for the competition in the coming year.

The course has been designed for runners to enjoy the beauty of nature, although it also passes by the busy downtown area before reaching the finish line. Road closures are strictly enforced by the local authorities. The refreshment stations are set up every 2km to ensure enough water and electrolyte drinks for runners in this dry season. First aid and medical care are provided by both international and local hospitals.

Tourists and runners alike can explore and enjoy nightlife including culinary diversity of restaurants and bars alongside the beaches and all over town. Attractions in Sihanoukville province come in great variety and certainly leave tourists with cherished memories.

The Cambodian Marathon Committee would like to extend their warmest invitation to runners around the world to come and run our Sihanoukville International Half Marathon. Best wishes and warmest regards to all runners.