The event, which is looking to build upon its last year's success, is expecting around 15,000 international runners from 40 different countries, a 100 per cent increase in participants.

The focus of the event is to expose the true beauty of Phuket, which was devastated by the tsunami in 2004. The organisers are encouraging runners to raise money for a charity of their choice, which is a new concept in Thailand. They hope to emulate the success of the London Marathon, whose 95,00 participants raised Bt12 million last year.

The meet, meanwhile, has nominated Hope worldwide as its official charity. It is dedicated to helping needy children and underprivileged girls in the Kingdom.

The course navigates around the picturesque northern part of the island, allowing people of all abilities to participate.

A half marathon and a 10km fun run have been organised in addition to the meet. A pasta party on Saturday evening and a farewell party the next day provide an excellent opportunity to meet fellow runners and taste some of the delicious seafood from the Andaman region.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.phuketmarathon.com or at the event Expo in Phuket on June 15 and 16. Raimund Wellenhofer, the race director, said the event has grown significantly in size. "We hope to offer sporting excellence while providing even greater exposure for the region's beauty and abilities," he said.

Powell star attraction

Jamaican Asafa Powell headlines the first of the six-meet Golden League series in Oslo today, hoping to snag a second jackpot en route to world gold in the 100 metres later in the summer.

The 24-year-old was without peer over the men's blue riband event last season, unbeaten in 16 outings and twice equalling his own world record of 9.77seconds.