Kamphaeng Phet buzzes with excitement as cyclists praise the "tough... thrilling... great" "Cycling Challenge to Conquer the Breeze... Enjoy the Mist 2026" event, conquering "Chong Yen" and stimulating the sports tourism economy in the area.
Mr. Chatip Rujanaseri, Governor of Kamphaeng Phet Province, assigned Mr. Suwanit Suriyakul Na Ayutthaya, Deputy Governor of Kamphaeng Phet, to preside over the opening of the sports tourism promotion event named “Cycling Challenge to Conquer the Breeze... Enjoy the Mist 2026 (Maewong Cycling Festival 2026)” at the 57 km marker point in Kamphaeng Phet. More than 500 cyclists tackled the natural trails of Mae Wong National Park, with over 80% of participants coming from various provinces.
Also present were Mrs. Chayaporn Amradit, Director of Protected Areas Regional Office 12 (Nakhon Sawan), along with Mr. Adisak Phusitwongsanyut, Director of Natural Resources and Environment of the province; Mr. Jaran Saonoi, District Chief of Pang Sila Thong; Pol. Col. Samnuek Nualkham, Chief of Pang Sila Thong Police Station; Mr. Mana Poonbankhaek, Director of the Provincial Skill Development Office; Mr. Narongrit Pilarat, Head of Khao Sanam Phrieng Wildlife Sanctuary; Mr. Supachai Srignam, President of Kamphaeng Phet Cycling Association; heads of government departments; and representatives from local government organizations, private sector, and cycling teams who all attended in large numbers.
Deputy Governor Suwanit Suriyakul Na Ayutthaya stated that Kamphaeng Phet Province prioritizes integrating sports and tourism to enhance the value of the local tourism industry. This event not only promotes health but also provides a key opportunity to showcase the natural beauty of Mae Wong National Park, especially the destination "Chong Yen," a landmark that attracts visitors year-round.
Ms. Krongkan Kamplod, Head of Tourism Promotion and Development Group at the Kamphaeng Phet Tourism and Sports Office and event organizer, detailed that there were a total of 300 participants divided into two categories: a 10-kilometer health ride emphasizing scenic nature views, and a 37-kilometer race separated by eight age groups, competing for road cycling excellence.
“According to participant statistics, 80% of the cyclists came from other provinces. The top five provinces were Nakhon Sawan, Bangkok, Phichit, Pathum Thani, and Tak. This reflects the national level of interest in Mae Wong cycling events, which encourages overnight stays, spending, and income distribution to communities in Pang Sila Thong District and nearby areas,” she said.
Mrs. Chayaporn Amradit, Director of Protected Areas Regional Office 12 (Nakhon Sawan), welcomed the cyclists as the area's steward. She noted that Mae Wong National Park is well-prepared to host eco-conscious tourists. The cycling route is challenging amid cool weather and beautiful mist on the mountain peaks, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 12 degrees Celsius. The park emphasizes responsible tourism along with maintaining cleanliness and environmental conservation.
“This event was made possible through the collaboration of many agencies, including the host Kamphaeng Phet Tourism and Sports Office, Mae Wong National Park, Pang Sila Thong District, Pang Ta Wai Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Ban Khlong Pla Soi School, Kamphaeng Phet Cycling Association, government and private sectors, media, and local residents. Especially notable is the support from the Cycling Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage, working together to promote Kamphaeng Phet as a premier sports tourism destination while preserving natural resources for the future,” he explained.
“Mickey,” Mr. Athiwat Jaksan from the Taphan Hin Cycling Team and a cyclist from Phichit Province, shared his experience of the event: “The route was challenging, tough, fun, and featured beautiful scenery. The team support and care throughout the route were excellent. The atmosphere in the evening was especially stunning, and I definitely plan to participate again if the event is held next year.”