Pursat town is set to host the seventh edition of the Pursat River Run on Sunday November 23.

The event has rapidly gained popularity among the Kingdom’s burgeoning athletic community due to its picturesque course along the banks of the Pursat river.

The 5km, 10km and disabled races are expected to attract more than 500 runners this year from across the country, including some stars from Cambodia’s national athletics team and other national sports teams. In previous years, Olympic athletes Hem Bunting and Kieng Samorn have taken part.

Race founder Steve Harknett recalled that it was first held in 2007 as a one-off event, but went annual due to its success.

“The [Pursat River Run] gives people who love running the chance to enjoy a race that’s small and friendly, but also well-organised and competitive in a beautiful part of Cambodia they may have never visited before,” said the Englishman.

The competition is organised by the Pursat Sports Office and local physical education teachers, and garners support from well-wishers and athletics fans in the UK. It is non-profit-making, with all funds raised going to local schools to buy sports equipment and to sponsor promising runners in Pursat to take part in other races.

Since the race’s inception, at least two Pursat runners have been helped in their pursuit of a place in the Cambodian national athletics team.

The races are open to all and entrants can register via the Pursat River Run facebook page or by emailing [email protected].

Registered runners receive a T-shirt and prizes are available for the top ten finishers in both the 5km and 10km for both men and women.