Triathlon Event, Koh Samui, a world-class competition


The Koh Samui Triathlon is an international standard race which comprises of a 4km swim followed by a cycling leg of 122km and running a distance of 30 km. However to include athletes of lesser ability a less demanding Duathlon event is also held for the amateurs in Koh Samui.

The acclaimed triathlon event held in Koh Samui brings the highly acclaimed discipline to the region. Offering a new competitive experience to local triathletes, the event enables them to test their abilities against foreign competitors. Race Director Gerald Iacono formerly directed the renowned Embrunman Triathlon in France, a grueling race consisting of swimming in a frigid lake and ascending into the mountains before embarking on the running leg amidst snow and thick fog. Needless to say conditions are very different in tropical Thailand, but the triathlon is just as demanding.

The swimming stage of the Koh Samui Triathlon takes place on Bophut Beach and consists of two laps of 2 km each. Meanwhile the extensive cycling leg consists of one and one half of a lap around the picturesque island, taking competitors through many of the local villages. There are three main climbs and numerous switchbacks on the route which is composed of both concrete and asphalt sections. Meanwhile the run takes competitors on a concrete surfaced road.

Triathlon appeared in an early form in France in the 1920s, but it remained a local low-key event. The sport as we know it now originated in the US state of Hawaii in 1980. Captain John Collins and his subordinates conceived of the sport as a means of testing the athletic abilities of the youthful recruits. Participants were required to complete the 3 main local endurance events consecutively: the 3.9 km Rough Water Swim of Waikiki, the 179 km Bicycle Race and the Honolulu Marathon stretching 42 km. The sport became known in Europe in the early 1980s with competitions commencing in France with the Nice Triathlon. The famous Embrunman Triathlon had its inception in 1984.


Visitors to the Thai island desiring a Samui resort will be well served by the Anantara Bophut, Koh Samui. This fine Samui hotel offers excellent accommodations and service assuring a pleasant stay.

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