Inthanon Skyrace, a new event in the Merrell Skyrunner® World Series series, is set to take place in the breathtaking Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Elite, international skyrunners will go head to head with local favourites to test their limits on one of the countries most technical and scenic courses.
This weekend’s race will see top-tier competitors battling across rugged trails and steep ascents, culminating at the summit of Doi Inthanon, the highest peak in Thailand. Standing at 2,565 meters, the mountain offers a dramatic backdrop, and a fitting challenge for skyrunners, blending high-altitude difficulty with dense tropical forests and sweeping vistas.
Inthanon will be the first stage in Asia for the 2024 Merrell Skyrunner® World Series. Athletes will navigate 31 kilometers of tough terrain, including over 2,500 meters of vertical gain, in pursuit of victory and valuable points for the overall World Series rankings.
International athletes to watch include Marcela Vasinova of the Czech Republic, Anastacia Rubtsova, Vanja Cnops of Belgium (team BIX), Tanya Raab of the UK, Peter Frano of Slovaki (team Scarpa) and Raul Criado of Spain (team Cimalp / Scarpa).
Local favourites include Trinnawat Rattanajaratpon (team Merrell), Seksan Jakkaew, Prajak Soomtoom, Tanapong Chankrachang (team HOKA), Darika Suwanmongkol (team The North Face), Jatupornpunoot Pytthajuny, Phitchanan Mahachot, Kewalin Pengkham.
The Inthanon Skyrace reflects Thailand’s growing presence on the global skyrunning scene. As part of this dynamic race, athletes will experience the rich cultural heritage of the Chiang Mai region, which includes the diverse local hill tribes, traditional Thai hospitality, and iconic Buddhist temples.
Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports is also supporting the event, recognizing it as a valuable platform for showcasing the country’s unique landscapes to a global audience of adventure travelers and sports enthusiasts.
Sustainable and Safe Racing
The event organizers are committed to protecting the fragile ecosystem of Doi Inthanon National Park. Measures have been put in place to ensure the race is eco-friendly, with sustainable practices in waste management, trail preservation, and community involvement.
Safety also remains a top priority, with comprehensive medical and rescue teams stationed along the course, ensuring the wellbeing of all participants.
