Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University held a meeting to prepare for the organization of the 5th “ARU RUN 2026,” elevating it to a national-standard running event under the concept “Race through the Past; Run for the Future — Run along a World Heritage route for a sustainable future.”
The event will take place on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the sports stadium of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University.
On February 2, 2026, Associate Professor Dr. Choosit Pradabpetch, President of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University; Dr. Preecha Prasopphon, Chair of the University Promotion Committee and Vice President of the Ayutthaya Teacher’s College Alumni Association; and Associate Professor Dr. Thatree Mahantrat, Vice President of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University and Chair of the ARU RUN 2026 Organizing Committee, held a meeting to prepare for the 5th “ARU RUN 2026.”
The event aims to elevate the race to a national-standard running event under the concept “Race through the Past; Run for the Future — Run along a World Heritage route for a sustainable future.” University executives, representatives from government and private sectors, event sponsors, and members of the media attended the meeting at the Ayutthaya–ASEAN Conference Room, Sri Ayothaya Building, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University.
Associate Professor Dr. Choosit Pradabpetch, President of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University, stated that the preparations for ARU RUN 2026 mark the event’s 5th consecutive year, reflecting systematic development from a university-run race into a nationally recognized sporting event. Over the years, the university has focused on elevating competition standards in every dimension, including the race route, safety, runner services, and overall experience. Last year, the ARU RUN route was officially certified by the Athletics Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage, with judges appointed by the association—an important milestone that has strengthened confidence among participants nationwide.
For 2026, the university continues to uphold the concept that “runners are the heart of the event.” Emphasis has been placed on route quality, fairness in judging, and prize organization for both Overall and age-group categories, alongside creating a distinctive running atmosphere through the World Heritage city of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
In terms of safety, the university has integrated cooperation with key partner agencies, including the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Police Station, rescue units, medical teams, and nurses. First-aid stations will be available throughout the course, along with drinking water points, electrolyte beverages, snacks, recovery areas, muscle-relaxation massage stations, and engaging on-campus activities. The goal is for ARU RUN to be more than just a race—it is envisioned as a festival for runners, where everyone can participate and enjoy the experience.
A total of 4,307 participants have registered: 1,500 for the 5-kilometer race, 1,734 for the 10-kilometer race, and 1,037 for the 21.1-kilometer half marathon—clearly reflecting the strong trust runners across the country place in the university’s event organization.
Dr. Preecha Prasopphon, Chair of the University Promotion Committee and Vice President of the Ayutthaya Teacher’s College Alumni Association, stated that the event has received cooperation from all sectors, each playing an important role in driving the success of this race. Key contributors include Ms. Wiriya Lertpipatporn, Vice Chair of the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Chamber of Commerce and Chair of the Young Entrepreneurs Chamber (YEC), as well as Mr. Patcharabool Saplom, Board Member of the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Chamber of Commerce and Senior Advisory Chair of the YEC. Their strong support and commitment have significantly helped advance the organization of this event.
ARU RUN 2026 is backed by 26 public and private sector sponsors, with The RVI Group being the latest to officially support the race. The partnership aims to promote health-focused activities, tourism, and the local economy within the World Heritage city.
Representing private-sector collaboration, The RVI Group, led by CEO Mr. Argus Ang, appointed Dr. Nantarat Fansian, Director of RVI Thailand Group, to formally express the company’s intention to become a supporting partner for ARU RUN 2026. The group envisions running events as a powerful force to connect people, stimulate economic activity, and create sustainable shared value for the World Heritage city.
The ARU RUN 2026 will take place on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the sports stadium of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University. The event will feature three race categories:
- Half Marathon (21.1 km): Flag-off at 4:45 a.m.
- Mini Marathon (10 km): Flag-off at 5:00 a.m.
- Fun Run & Walk (5 km): Flag-off at 5:15 a.m.
The program will also include a scholarship presentation ceremony for students and an awards ceremony for runners in each age category. The ARU RUN 2026 is scheduled to conclude at 9:30 a.m.
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University reaffirmed its commitment to developing ARU RUN into a high-standard race set along the World Heritage city route—creating value in health, education, the economy, and the province’s image, while moving together toward a sustainable future.
Original Article:
https://siamrath.co.th/regional/news/126866