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.

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Laguna Phuket, Asia’s premier integrated destination and iconic host of the award-winning Laguna Phuket Triathlon (LPT), is delighted to announce the much-anticipated return of the 29th edition of this renowned event. Known as “The Race of Legends”, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon is set to captivate athletes and enthusiasts once more as it takes place on Sunday, 19th November 2023. Laguna Phuket Triathlon, Asia’s longest-standing triathlon, features a unique race distance comprising a 1.8K swim, a 55K bike ride, and a challenging 12K run. These elements will take athletes through the breathtaking tropical landscapes of the acclaimed Laguna Phuket resort destination and the picturesque local communities in the northern part of Phuket Island. As the 29th edition of this iconic event approaches, there are several new and exciting features being unveiled to make this year’s LPT an unforgettable experience for all participants. Cash Prizes for Aspiring Pros Laguna Phuket Triathlon is breaking the barriers between amateurs and professionals. For the first time ever, all Thai and non-Thai athletes who aspire to compete with the pros can now vie for cash prizes. To join this elite league of competitors, simply select the “Elite Category” during the registration process, rather than the age group category. New Pre and Post Race Experiences Alongside with the official Bike Practice Session and Clinic that take place on 17th November 2023, this year the athletes will have the chance to kickstart their LPT journey with an Open Water Practice Swim on Saturday 18th November 2023, hosted by TriHub at 7.00am. Beyond the race day excitement, 2023 brings a series of engaging activities for all participants. From a relaxing recovery yoga session and a sumptuous breakfast at the farm-to-table restaurant Open Kitchen to an adrenaline-pumping Muay Thai boxing show. The festivities culminate with the Lifestyle Night Market on Saturday 18th and 25th November in the heart of Laguna Phuket. Over the past 28 years, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon has earned its reputation as Southeast Asia’s longest-running and most successful triathlon event. In 2020, it was recognized as one of The World’s Greatest Tri Swims by 220 Triathlon Magazine (UK) and ranked 5th on the 10 Best Triathlons in the World list by Let’s Do This (UK). It has hosted elite athletes and triathlon legends, including Jan Frodeno, Amelia Watkinson, Charlie Quinn and Michael Raelert, who have all been captivated by its stunning route, clean air, and abundant natural beauty. With limited slots available, enthusiasts are encouraged to secure spots in their desired race designation at their earliest convenience. Race options encompass the full Individual and Team Triathlon, Sprint Triathlon, and Duathlon. For an enhanced event experience, participants have the opportunity to book their stay at any of the 7 hotels within the Laguna Phuket group at a special rate using code ‘LTP2023’ when making reservations. These accommodations are all conveniently situated, providing easy access to the Laguna Grove race venue. Don’t miss the opportunity to become a part of the legacy. In 2023, the spirit of every participant is being celebrated through the #LPTisYOUcampaign, which shines a spotlight on the dedication and passion of all involved athletes. Share your training journey by posting photos and videos on your social media accounts with #LPTisYOU and tag @LagunaPhuketTriathlon to join the Legends video for 2023. At LPT, every participant embodies the spirit of a legend!

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Laguna Phuket, the leading integrated destination in Asia, and Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), the most prestigious private hospital network in the Asia-Pacific region, today officially opened a world-class wellness centre within Laguna Phuket. “For over 30 years, Laguna Phuket and BDMS have shared a strong partnership and a common vision, providing emergency medical services to our visitors, residents and associates from the conveniently located clinic in Canal Village,” commented Mr Ho Kwon Ping, Executive Chairman & Founder of the Banyan Tree Group. “Today, this partnership was further developed by launching the Laguna Wellness by BDMS Phuket, marking a significant milestone in our journey centred on bringing advanced healthcare offerings to Laguna Phuket and elevating our overall destination experience to new heights.” Strategically located in the heart of Laguna Phuket and a convenient 25-minute drive from the International Airport, Laguna Wellness by BDMS complements the existing array of resorts, residences, spas, and recreational facilities in the area, establishing Laguna Phuket as a comprehensive destination for relaxation, rejuvenation, and holistic well-being. “We champion a future where Thailand, Phuket and Laguna Phuket become synonymous with world-class medical services and holistic well-being, and the opening of Laguna Wellness by BDMS together with our trusted partner on the island is an important step towards that shared goal,” said Dr. Narongrit Havarungsi, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of BDMS Group 6, which includes hospitals in Bangkok, Hat Yai, Suratthani, Koh Samui and three hospitals in Phuket. The new facility will position Laguna Phuket as a premium wellness hub in the region, as well as giving the Laguna Phuket residents access to the latest medical technology and the expertise of world-class medical professionals. Catering to the increasing number of individuals who choose to visit Phuket for medical treatment as part of their holiday, the centre will also appeal to those considering investing in residential property on the island. The grand opening ceremony, attended by business leaders, government representatives and members of the press, introduced guests to a wide range of healthcare services and holistic wellness solutions offered by the facility, including comprehensive health check-up packages, cutting-edge regenerative medicine, IV therapies and personalised supplements.

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Since its establishment, which commenced with a seven-year rehabilitation journey from a tin mine to the integrated resort destination it is today, Laguna Phuket has remained committed to safeguarding its natural environment. Now, Laguna Phuket has partnered with rewilding specialists from SUGi to reintroduce native wild species into the surrounding landscape. This visionary initiative begins with the creation of several planned ‘pocket forests’ within the destination, recognized as Asia’s premier integrated resort, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Under SUGi guidance, the Laguna Phuket team adopted a multi-faceted and multi-phase approach to rebuilding the symbiotic web of Phuket’s rainforest. Following the Miyawaki method of afforestation that mimics the way a forest would recolonise itself if humans stepped away, the team selected several secluded areas within Laguna Phuket with a goal of turning it into self-sustaining ‘pocket forests’ in a year’s time. To that end, the team selected 84 species of native trees based on a survey of the last remaining virgin rainforest Khao Phra Thaew, focusing on those that would occur naturally in that particular area without humans, to build a site that is more responsive to climate change. Quick to establish and maintenance-free after the first two-to-three years, Miyawaki forests grow ten times faster and are thirty times as dense as alternative reforestation solutions, providing a greater amount of forage for pollinators, refuge for birds, and a cool home for insects. “This rewilding project with SUGi is about creating spaces where people fall in love with nature in a different way. It is the beginning of our next chapter of bringing communities and rewilding all our properties around the world. We decided to start here, where everything began in 1994 with the first Banyan Tree. This place was a tin mine and we transformed it into what you see today. Now we are going through the next transformation, where we are bringing back an ecosystem of native flora and fauna,” said Ho Ren Yung, Head of Brand HQ at Banyan Tree Group. “Sometimes starting from the beginning can help shape where you want to go in the future,” added Ho Ren Yung. “Every resort we have is about experiencing nature in a way that really connects you to your soul. Bringing nature in and inviting people to create their own sanctuary in connection with nature.” Joining the ranks of Laguna Phuket‘s existing sustainability initiatives, the new partnership with SUGi offers a viable means to regenerate an indigenous ecosystem, benefiting human and planetary health. This win-win solution for both people and nature brings the Banyan Tree Group one step closer to achieving sustainable development goals, while promoting the restoration of the ecosystem with increased biodiversity. “Projects such as the collaboration with Laguna Phuket allow rewilding to be an interactive sensory experience – bringing a glimpse of nature back into people’s lives. We are all instinctively drawn to seek out nature and travel is becoming more and more about people looking for the beauty, peace and healing qualities nature provides as an antidote to the stresses of modern life,” said James Godfrey-Faussett, the Lead Forest Maker of SUGi. “Projects such as this initial one in Laguna also bring the ecological ancestry of the area alive again – a glimpse of the lush forest that once covered much of this beautiful island.”

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Asia’s premier travel destination, Laguna Phuket, is delighted to announce the launch of its latest attraction: Ori9in Phuket. Launching end of November, the Gourmet Park will feature a farm-to-table concept of dining, boasting a café’, picnic restaurant, a retail market with Ori9in products as well as an extensive line-up of family-friendly activities for hotel guests and visitors to enjoy through the spectacular tropical scenery of Laguna Phuket. Ori9in Phuket works towards being Phuket’s go-to for fresh, wholesome foods that are sourced ethically. It has its very own Open Kitchen, which comprises of a café, picnic areas and a central market – offering the freshest local ingredients and is based on a farm to table-based framework with ethically sourced meat options for all to enjoy. Incredible new adventures and experiences await at the Ori9in Phuket, where all produce is farmed with a transparent supply chain and dedicated to meeting the demands of a modern lifestyle coupled with the importance of eating well and playing well. This can be showcased through its brand ethos – “Grow, Eat, Play”, where in addition to a farm-fresh dining experience, guests may look forward to an array of engaging and immersive experiences on the ground. More than just a food marketplace, the space provides a blissful sanctuary for families with kids to connect, including an array of activities such as interactive mazes, a scenic 1km lotus lake loop trail, a fenced dog park as well as guided tours of educational farms that has been curated to ignite a sense of wonder and desire to explore for the whole family. “Ori9in Phuket is a new environmental and active lifestyle attraction located at the heart of Laguna Phuket.” said Paul Wilson, Deputy Managing Director of Laguna Phuket. “Described as our “Gourmet Park”, the attraction includes a lagoon nature trail with viewing decks, visitor farm, dog park and our newly planted family maze. Open Kitchen is our new picnic cafe and fresh market, and provides the entry point of Ori9in Phuket. We look forward to welcoming our residential community and hotel guests to visit Ori9in Phuket, to “Grow, Eat and Play” together.” From inspiring and leisurely educational activities to nature filled experiences that are perfect for adults and the little ones alike, the exciting launch is also located right in the centre of Laguna Phuket, making it highly accessible for guests and residents. For more information on Ori9in Phuket visit here and to book your stay at Laguna Phuket, please visit here.

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