Bangkok: Thousands of runners were left in disarray at the 'Run for Destination' event, which turned out to be a phantom race with no organizers present. Instead of a well-coordinated event, participants were met with only a starting gate, activity tents, and toilet facilities, leading to widespread confusion and frustration among the runners.
According to Thai News Agency, the event was scheduled to take place at Suan Luang Rama IX Park in Bangkok, with the 10 km race set to start at 6:00 AM and the 5 km race at 6:10 AM. As the start time approached, runners arrived only to find no event organizers present to manage the race. The absence of organizers prompted many of the runners, who had paid a registration fee of 450 baht, to file complaints at the Prawet Police Station, citing wasted time and effort in preparing for the race.
Adding to the confusion, an English sign at the starting gate incorrectly stated the event date as "SUNDAY 28th MAY 2028," raising suspicions about the legitimacy of the race. Amid the chaos, a woman in a black shirt, identified as a staff member, appeared and clarified that she was unaware of the situation due to not reading the group chat. She attempted to pacify the frustrated runners, announcing through a megaphone that she was trying to reach the event organizers.
In a bid to address immediate concerns, the staff member offered to refund 10 baht to any runner who could not wait for further resolution, stating she had 1,300 baht on hand. This gesture, however, did little to quell the dissatisfaction among the participants, who were left questioning the integrity of the event's organization.