Thailand has unveiled a bold proposal to host an F1 street race in Bangkok’s vibrant Chatuchak district, potentially bringing one of the world’s most prestigious motorsport events to the Thai capital from 2028 to 2032. The draft circuit layout, developed by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), features a 5.732-kilometer clockwise track weaving through the heart of Bangkok, offering a unique blend of urban scenery and challenging racing conditions. The proposed route passes through notable landmarks such as the Mo Chit Bus Terminal, Chatuchak Weekend Market—the largest market in Thailand—and Queen Sirikit Park. The design includes a mix of high-speed straights and technical corners reminiscent of other famous F1 street circuits, promising an exciting spectacle for fans and spectators alike. Key infrastructure elements, such as the pit building and paddock, are planned to be located behind the Mo Chit Bus Terminal, strategically positioned to integrate with the city’s existing transport network. If approved, the race would take place annually over three days, likely in March or September, aligning with the global F1 calendar that features races across Asia, Australia, China, and Japan. Hosting such an event could significantly boost tourism, invigorate local businesses, and elevate Bangkok’s international profile as a premier sporting destination. However, organizing an F1 race in the bustling city center comes with logistical challenges. The SAT has acknowledged that the event would necessitate road closures on major thoroughfares such as Phahonyothin Road, affecting daily traffic and public transportation routes. Construction work to prepare the circuit could span one to two years, with partial closures of parks like Chatuchak and Vachirabenjatas during development. During race weekends, vendors and visitors to the Chatuchak Market may face disruptions, although efforts are being made to keep the market operational. The authorities are actively seeking public feedback through an online survey as part of the planning process, emphasizing community engagement and transparency. This initiative follows Thailand’s recent extension of MotoGP hosting rights until 2031, backed by significant government investment, signaling the country’s growing ambition to become a major hub for international motorsport events. If realized, the Bangkok F1 street race would not only add a new dimension to Thailand’s vibrant sports scene but also showcase the city’s dynamic urban landscape to a global audience, combining sport, culture, and tourism in a spectacular setting.

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A baseball jaunt across Asia is the perfect exploration of how much more loved North America’s pastime is by enthusiasts. Historically, Asia has a strong baseball culture — Japan and South Korea may have celebrated the victory of their team as much or more than Canada did its win in 2015. The logistics of planning such a trip become complicated, in the best sense: game schedules must be quarried from nearby winnable cities and bedded alongside continued travel. This post is a primer on how to make the most of your trip by planning it along Asia’s prominent baseball cities. Where to Choose Top Cities for a Baseball Trip Asia has many cities that are home to the baseball-playing population. Baseball-based trips across Asia: Popular destinations include Tokyo and Osaka in Japan, Seoul (South Korea) and Taiwan. BaseballJapan is home to the famous Yomiuri Giants and Hanshin Tigers, their respective games earn lots of spectators around the world. From the South Korean base: The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) league features a collection of local teams like Doosan Bears and LG Twins. Alongside the NPB, you also have a great league in Taiwan — the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) that provides chants and dances as well. And keep in mind the game schedules across different countries, as league seasons could vary. In Japan, the season is typically from late March to October; in South Korea, it’s from early April through late September and November respectively; with Taiwan playing a February – August schedule. Align your travel dates with the games to have a better chance of catching them in other countries. By working with this strategy you make certain that you can acquire the best online games for your holiday across South America. Everything You Need to Know To Follow Your Favorite Teams If you are a supporter of squads outside Asia, then broadcast the Braves live on your computer while visiting. With the appropriate tools, it is easy to watch games or catch some highlights. This link here provides you with all the steps that will allow you to follow the Braves live online, just by following the guide you can check out your favorite team performance from anywhere in the world. Living the Baseball Culture in Japan Baseball toasts fans of the Japanese variety with a vibrant atmosphere mixed with cheerful chants and jogs. Go to a baseball game at Tokyo Dome or the Koshien Stadium in Osaka and you will have an unforgettable taste of Japanese baseball. Hours before the game, fans file in wearing their school’s colors and carrying anything that makes noise. There is quite an electric atmosphere in these stadiums like nowhere else and it makes for a memorable beginning to your adventure across Asia. Check out the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in Tokyo for a more comprehensive look into Japan’s baseball history. Catcher Games in South Korea and Taiwan Korean baseball and KBO games are familiar with mascots who rock a ridiculously strong prekorporeal cheerleader/group fountain shower thing and also fun fan chats. One of the best ways to watch a game is in Seoul at Jamsil Baseball Stadium — home of 2007, 2018 and most recently crowned KBO champions, The Doosan Bears. Before the game, fans gather outside of the stadium to have dinner around a table like they are in their own homes with beer and fried chicken (more than likely Korean Fried Chicken) — it is that flavorful touch on an otherwise classic baseball trip. The CPBL league in Taiwan provides a much more personal experience for the fans. Major venues are Taichung Intercontinental Baseball Stadium and Taiwan Area Xinzhuang Stadium. Those fans are usually from Taiwan, and the games will normally have music playing in the stands before a very vocal crowd (glad my brain isn’t as old yet that I didn’t remember them to start this) with infectious energy. How baseball is played in each country makes the tour an interesting one across Asia. Conclusion Traveling to Asia for baseball can give you loads of sports excitement as well as an outstanding cultural experience. Just choose your cities and figure out how to get there on time for games, while going to as many of them in one trip as possible — now you have a fantastic vacation covering the rich baseball culture Asia has. As a follower who loves to watch Japanese, Korean, and Taiwanese baseball action along with the domestic games in your country, every stop pits you against seeking new sights of how each nation comes together for ball games that are truly larger than life.

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Deep in the heart of Vietnam‘s Pu Luong Nature Reserve, where limestone peaks pierce the sky and ancient jungle paths wind through emerald rice terraces, an extraordinary running event is about to unfold. The Vietnam Jungle Marathon (VJM), scheduled for October 19, 2024, isn’t just a race—it’s a journey through time and terrain that promises to challenge your limits while showcasing some of Southeast Asia’s most breathtaking landscapes. A Trail Runner’s Paradise Just a few hours from the bustling streets of Hanoi lies a world where time seems to stand still. Here, in Pu Luong Nature Reserve, runners will find themselves sharing trails with water buffaloes and passing through ethnic minority villages where life continues as it has for generations. The Vietnam Jungle Marathon offers four distance options—10km, 25km, 50km, and 70km—each promising its own unique adventure through what organizers aptly call ‘wonder trails’. More Than Just a Race What sets the Vietnam Jungle Marathon apart isn’t just its stunning course but the complete experience it offers. Participants can immerse themselves in the local culture by staying in traditional stilt house accommodations at the Ban Hang Race Village. Here, the finish line transforms into a vibrant celebration zone, creating a unique trail running community where stories and achievements are shared against the backdrop of misty mountains and starlit skies. The Routes: A Challenge for Every Runner Whether you’re a trail running novice or an experienced ultra-marathoner, VJM has a challenge for you: The VJM 10: Perfect for those looking to taste the trail running experience The VJM 25: A more challenging course that showcases the reserve’s diversity The VJM 50: An ultra-marathon that tests endurance through varying terrains The VJM 70: The ultimate challenge, traversing the full splendor of Pu Luong Each route has been thoughtfully designed to include flowing downhills and demanding climbs, ensuring a satisfying challenge for runners of all levels. Beyond the Race Understanding that getting to Pu Luong might be an adventure in itself, organizers have created comprehensive 3-day packages that include: Transportation from Hanoi Accommodation options ranging from traditional homestays to luxury resorts All meals featuring local cuisine Race support and amenities For those wanting to extend their Vietnamese adventure, the race can be integrated into a longer active holiday in the region. A Unique Running Experience What makes Vietnam Jungle Marathon truly special is its ability to combine: Athletic challenge with cultural immersion Competitive sport with natural beauty Personal achievement with community celebration On some of the more remote sections, runners might find themselves completely alone with nature, creating moments of solitude and reflection that are increasingly rare in our connected world. Practical Considerations For those considering this unique challenge: Book early as accommodation in the race village is limited Train for varied terrain and potentially humid conditions Prepare for an experience that goes beyond typical race expectations Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, the Vietnam Jungle Marathon offers an experience that will remain etched in your memory long after you’ve crossed the finish line. As you lace up your running shoes and stand at the starting line, remember: this isn’t just a race through nature—it’s a journey through history, culture, and some of the most spectacular trails Southeast Asia has to offer. The Vietnam Jungle Marathon awaits, ready to challenge your limits and reward your spirit of adventure. Check Vietnam Jungle Marathon 2024 HERE

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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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Thanyapura Sports and Health Resort has launched an exclusive hotel promotion this Lunar New Year with Ox-citing offers available for stays until 31 October 2021.  Thanyapura welcomes prosperity into the new year with active staycations for only THB 1,800 (net) a night for single or double room occupancy. Each stay also includes a free bio-scan, a welcome massage, and 20 per cent off food and drinks. Guests will also enjoy access to group fitness classes and world-class sports facilities such as the 25-metre training pool and 50-metre Olympic pool, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and ice bath. Remove the old and welcome new pleasures into your life with additional offers such as the buy eight get ten massages for only THB 6,000 (net) for 55 minutes massages, as well as 50 per cent off all regular massages. Buy eight and get ten personal training sessions from THB 14,400 (net) with a free body composition analysis. The sale is available until 28 February 2021 for stays from now until 31 October 2021. Personal training and massage offers can be redeemed from now until 31 December 2021. Located in Phuket and just 20 minutes from Phuket International Airport, Thanyapura Sports & Health Resort is an active holiday destination offering personalised programs ranging from sports and fitness to nutrition and lifestyle medicine for both groups and individuals. An oasis for people looking to rebalance and recharge their lives, Thanyapura helps guests feel and perform better for a healthier, happier lifestyle through sustainable and holistic practices. Thanyapura sits on the edge of a national forest and is a haven for both holiday-makers and athletes alike. The resort has been accredited the Amazing Thailand Safety & Healthy Administration certification, an industry-standard in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, deeming locations safe and ready for the return of tourists.  Terms and conditions may be found HERE.

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Organisers of Vietnam’s premier cycling event, the Coupe De Hue, have vowed that the race will return stronger than ever in 2021 after this year’s installment fell victim to the global pandemic. The event, which was due to take place in late September, became the latest high-profile sporting occasion in Vietnam to be postponed due to public health safety concerns relating to the COVID-19 virus. Other major sporting events in the Southeast Asian nation to have fallen by the wayside due to the pandemic include the Ironman 70.3, a triathlon held in Danang each year, and the Ho Chi Minh City installment of the Spartan series as well as the Hue Marathon.  The Coupe De Hue will now be held at the same time next year. Anticipation for the Coupe De Hue — a 2-stage, 2-day epic dubbed “Vietnam’s toughest road race” — had been strong. Stage 1, the Bach Ma King of the Mountain, comprises an average gradient of 8.3% for 15.2 kilometers, whilst the Stage 2 Gran Fondo comprises a ride of either 70km or a 140km, bringing a total of 3100m of climbing over 155km for the bravest riders. Having established itself as a highlight on the global race calendar since debuting in 2018, the event was set to build on that momentum in 2020. Naturally, the enforced shelving of the event came as a blow for organizers, competitors, and cycling fans alike. Nevertheless, race supremos are using the window created by the cancellation to forge new partnerships for the event and to make improvements to its route. In doing so, they are confident that 2021 will be a red-letter year as they aim to grow the reputation of the race and use it as a way to position Central Vietnam as a hub for cycling and other adventure activities in Southeast Asia. “Of course, there is disappointment, but when the safety of competitors and of the local community is concerned there was no other decision to take,” said Les Walters, Director of Activities at Laguna Lang Co and the manager of the Coupe De Hue. Walters and his team are also in the process of simplifying the city-based segments of the Gran Fondo, resulting in a faster, safer and more direct route to the finish line in the heart of Hue: Vietnam’s enchanting former imperial capital. “Laguna Lang Co is committed to boosting adventure and sports tourism in Central Vietnam and is currently finalizing a new exciting partnership that will solidify the Coupe De Hue as the race of choice for keen cyclists for years to come,” said Adam Calver, Director of Golf & Destination Marketing at Laguna Lang Co. “We are working closely with Vietnam’s tourism authorities to ensure we offer the best possible venues for amateur and professional sporting events throughout the region.” “I believe that Coupe De Hue is the best 2-day 2-stage road race in all of Asia,” added Walters. “The Bach Ma KOM presents challenges equal to the mountain stages of the Tour de France, while there is no more spectacular finale to any Gran Fondo than in the heart of Hue citadel.”

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Bali Eco Cycling, part of Bali Eco Tours, was established in 1999 with the intention of creating tours that offer a unique and rewarding experience to Bali visitors. Bali Eco Tours take visitors away from the tourist circuits and show them the Bali they want to see – the real Bali. Not just the beautiful sceneries, but also a hands-on experience of typical Balinese daily life and a feel for the magic and spirit of this stunning island, its beautiful people and its vibrant culture. Whether on a mountain bike gliding down on quiet country lanes from Kintamani to Ubud, trekking to Mount Agung or trekking through Bali jungle. Sharing their island is their passion, so Bali Eco Cycling are proud to offer a wide range of tours/activities to discerning Bali visitors, for a stay in Bali that is both enjoyable and memorable. The Bali Eco Tours concept remains that of being eco-friendly. To them, this means caring about the bottom line: for a business to be sustainable, it must strive to balance its duty of care to people and the environment with profit. Bali Eco Tours is a company that set off on the right path to be environmental friendly, cultural friendly and indigenous friendly, a unique phenomenon amongst Bali rampant tourism growth. They continue to work hard to give their guests real value-for-money experiences and provide opportunities to experience the real Bali without the hassle, hustle and bustle. Their guests discover more than the superficial beauty of Bali island: they have an adventure and at the same time learn through first-hand experience. Bali Eco Tours do their best to reduce carbon footprints while educating their staff, their partners, the communities they work in as well as their honored guests, inviting all of them to join on a journey towards environment stewardship together. Bali Eco Tours limit the number of people they accept on their tours on each day to ensure every guest has a quality time. Their staff love doing their jobs well, they take real pride in their achievements, and Bali Eco Tours would rather suggest guests book on another day than overcrowd any of the tours. To cater to different needs and fitness levels, they continue to come up with variations on their products, especially on the Cycling Tour and Mt Batur Trek. They also remain flexible to requests for tailored tours to suit their guests. As there has been a few copycats trying to use the Bali Eco concepts, ideas and even the name, when booking a Bali Eco Tours tour, please ensure you are definitely booked with Bali Eco Tours. The guide picking you up should wear a bright blue t-shirt with Bali Eco Tours logo on his chest and www.baliecocycling.com on the back of the t-shirt. Bali Eco Tours offer a professional and well-trained team, international standards of safety and hygiene, and a warmth and genuine desire to please their guests. Bali Eco Tours Special Promotion for 2017 U3: What do you get if you take Ubud to the Power of Three? You have a special combination of their Ubud Fun Orientation Tour (including hands reflexology, neck & shoulders massage), their Rice Field and Village Exploration Walk (including feet reflexology and legs massage), and their Mt Batur Summit, Swim and Spa (full body massage) on three separate days, all for a single special price! A2: Do you want an Adventure or many Adventures? So little time, so much to do? This package allows you to combine their Mt Batur Sunrise & Swim with their popular full day Bali Eco Cycling Tour all in one day for a very special price! F3: Lets have Fun For all the Family! They provide a special rate so you can take all the family on their popular Bali Eco Cycling Tour for a family of 4 (typically 2 adults + 2 children) or a family of 5 (2 adults + 3 children). With this package, even the teenagers get the discounted children rate. Bali Eco Tours love families (and families love them!) – this is the best rate for their tours. To obtain the above special rates, contact Bali Eco Tours via email or phone quoting the name of the package in the subject line (U3, A2 or F3) – don’t forget to provide them with your pick up location and contact details! They will need to be able to reach you on the day of the pick up (local phone or Whatsapp number preferred). PT. Bali Budaya Tours (Bali Eco Cycling) Jln. Raya Pengosekan, Peliatan, Ubud, Bali Telephone: 081 337 420 420 – If ringing from a mobile phone or outside of Bali dial +62 (0)361 97 5557. Inquire about Bali Eco Tour programs via email at baliecocycling@gmail.com or check out their booking calendar by following the links below to see what tours are already running: http://www.baliecocycling.com/cycling-tour/

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