SIEM REAP, Cambodia, Aug. 31 (Xinhua) -- The 10th edition of the Angkor Empire Marathon was held at the famous Angkor Archaeological Park here in northwest Cambodia on Sunday, attracting over 4,000 local and international runners.
Senior Minister Thong Khon, also president of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC), said the annual event aims to promote sports and attract more tourists to the Angkor during the rainy season, also known as the green season.
"A total of 4,224 runners took part in this event, including 3,462 Cambodians and 762 foreigners from 47 countries and regions," he said during the race kickoff.
"Most of the international participants are from China, Japan, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States," he added.
The event featured four race categories: the full marathon (42 km), half marathon (21 km), 10 km race, and a 3 km fun run.
Held in front of Angkor Wat, a major ancient temple within the 401-square-kilometer Angkor Archaeological Park, participants ran around the temple, surrounded by stunning architecture and scenic views.
According to the results released by the NOCC, Cambodian Vann Pheara won the men's full marathon in two hours, 47 minutes and 29 seconds, while the women's full marathon was claimed by Cambodian Kan Srey Roth, who crossed the finish line in 3:22:09. ■
