Co-sponsored by the Nation Multimedia Group, the biennial event is split into two categories - individual and team relay mix.

Participants will compete in two different courses - Olympic distance, and Short distance.

Athletes will go through a 1,500-metre swim, a 40-kilometre bike ride and a 10-kilometre run on the picturesque route of the Royal Ploughing Field, the Chao Phya River and the Grand Palace.

The race, which starts at 7am, will begin with a swim from Bangkok Noi Canal followed by a three-lap bike race on the scenic Rama VIII Bridge and the Boromratchonnanee Road flyover.

Contenders will then run from Rama VIII Bridge and return to Phra Pinklao Bridge for three laps before heading to the finish.

Police officers will be on duty to provide security to competitors throughout the race and a total of 60 medical staff will also stand by on boats along the swimming section.

The organisers have tested the quality of water in the Bangkok Noi Canal and found that it is safe enough to swim, though there were some initial worries about water pollution.

More than Bt500,000 in prize money will be on offer for more than 300 local and foreign participants. All finishers will receive limited edition of medals.

Suleemas Sutthisampan, chairman of the organising committee, said the main aim of the event is to celebrate the 80th birthday of His Majesty the King.

"We want it to be part of this auspicious occasion. All proceeds will go to His Majesty the King's charities and helping those who are afflicted with leprosy and HIV," she said.

Race director Suwit Jatujinda said the organisers have spent Bt10 million to stage the event and expect to make a big impression within and outside the country.

More information can be had at www.thebangkoktriathlon.com

Somporn Suphop

The Nation